Pecan Cookie Balls

Delightful Bite-Sized Treat

If you’re looking for a simple yet indulgent cookie recipe, these Pecan Cookie Balls are the perfect choice! Buttery, nutty, and coated in a light dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies melt in your mouth. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, an afternoon treat, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make – With just a few basic ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holiday baking, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee.
  • Customizable – Add a twist to the traditional recipe with different nuts, flavorings, or coatings.
  • Freezer-Friendly – You can prepare these in advance and store them for later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (optional, for coating)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To prepare these pecan cookie balls, gather the following kitchen tools:

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Fork or pastry cutter
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Ziplock bag (for coating in powdered sugar)
  • Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients except for the powdered sugar. Use a fork or pastry cutter to mix everything together until the mixture is crumbly. The dough should hold together when pressed.

2. Shape the Cookies

Take small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.

3. Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the cookies for 10-13 minutes or until they are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking, as they should remain tender and delicate.

4. Coat with Powdered Sugar

Once the cookies have cooled slightly, place them into a ziplock bag with the powdered sugar. Close the bag and gently shake until each cookie is fully coated. You can also roll them individually in a bowl of powdered sugar for a more even coating.

Tips and Variations

  • Nut Options – Try substituting pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
  • Flavor Enhancements – Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice kick.
  • Chocolate Drizzle – Melt some chocolate and drizzle over the cookies for an extra layer of sweetness.
  • Gluten-Free Option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
  • Extra Crunch – Lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the dough for enhanced nuttiness.

How to Store Pecan Cookie Balls

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
  • Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. To serve, let them thaw and dust with additional powdered sugar if needed.

Best Pairings

These cookies pair wonderfully with:

  • Coffee or Espresso – The buttery texture complements a rich, bold coffee.
  • Hot Chocolate – A cozy pairing, especially during the winter months.
  • Tea – Try them with black tea, chai, or a spiced herbal blend.
  • Dessert Wine – A sweet wine like Moscato enhances the nutty, sugary notes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and freeze the dough balls. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

2. Why are my cookies too crumbly?

The dough should be slightly crumbly but still hold together when pressed. If it’s too dry, add a little more softened butter until it binds properly.

3. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used, butter provides the best flavor and texture for these cookies.

4. Can I skip the powdered sugar?

Yes! These cookies taste great even without the sugar coating. You can also roll them in cocoa powder or cinnamon sugar for a different finish.

5. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

These cookies don’t spread much due to the high flour content, but chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help maintain their shape.

Final Thoughts

These Pecan Cookie Balls are a classic treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or saving a batch for later, their buttery, nutty goodness is irresistible.

If you love this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes.

Happy baking! 🍪✨

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