Holiday Pecan Pie Balls

Yields: Approximately 24-30 balls

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

• 1 cup finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• Optional coatings: powdered sugar, melted chocolate, extra chopped pecans

Equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Baking sheet
• Wax paper or parchment paper

Instructions:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham cracker crumbs, chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
3. Combine Wet and Dry:
   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until everything is well combined and a sticky mixture forms.
4. Chill the Mixture:
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the mixture is firm enough to handle.
5. Shape the Balls:
   • Line a baking sheet with wax paper or parchment paper.
   • Take about 1 tablespoon of the chilled mixture and roll it into a ball between your palms.
   • Place the formed balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Coat (Optional):
   • If desired, roll the balls in powdered sugar, dip them in melted chocolate, or roll them in extra chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
7. Chill Again:
   • Place the baking sheet with the coated or uncoated pecan pie balls back into the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to set.
8. Serve:
   • Once the balls are firm, they are ready to serve. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips and Variations:

• Toasted Pecans: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
• Bourbon or Rum: Add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the wet ingredients for an extra layer of flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Mix in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the finished balls for added sweetness.
• Spice it up: add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dry ingredients.
• Chocolate Coating: For a nice chocolate coating, melt high quality chocolate, and dip the chilled balls into the melted chocolate. Let the chocolate set on parchment paper.

Enjoy your delicious Holiday Pecan Pie Balls!