Welcome to another delicious adventure in the world of baking! Today, we’re diving into an irresistible recipe that will satisfy your sweet tooth cravings—Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls. These bite-sized treats are perfect for anyone who loves the rich flavors of pecan pie combined with gooey caramel goodness. Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a family gathering, or just indulging yourself, these Decadent Caramel-Filled Pecan Pie Bites will be the star of the show. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to create these Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls that are sure to impress.
Introduction
Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls bring together the timeless appeal of pecan pie and the indulgence of caramel into one delightful bite. Inspired by traditional Southern pecan pie, this recipe takes the flavors to a whole new level with an ooey-gooey caramel center, a crispy graham cracker crumb base, and a crunchy pecan topping. These treats are perfect for any occasion, from Thanksgiving dinners to cozy weekend baking sessions. The best part? They’re bite-sized, which means they are the perfect treat to pop in your mouth whenever you’re craving something sweet and satisfying. Plus, these Decadent Caramel-Filled Pecan Pie Bites are incredibly easy to make, so anyone can whip them up in no time.
Ingredients for Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls
To create these delicious Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups pecans, finely chopped – The star ingredient that gives these balls their nutty flavor.
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs – Adds a lovely crunch and helps bind the mixture.
- ½ cup dark brown sugar – For that rich, molasses-like sweetness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Makes the dough rich and cohesive.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor with a sweet, aromatic touch.
- 1 cup soft caramel candies, melted – The gooey center that makes these bites irresistible.
- 1 pinch of sea salt – To balance the sweetness and add depth to the flavors.
- Whole pecan halves for garnish – Adds the perfect finishing touch for visual appeal and an extra crunch.
Optional Substitutions:
- If you’re allergic to nuts, you can substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or crushed pretzels.
- For a gluten-free option, replace the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers.
How to Make Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls – Step by Step
Here’s a simple guide on how to make Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls that will have you baking like a pro in no time.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure that your Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls don’t stick and come out perfectly crispy.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of finely chopped pecans, 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, and ½ cup of dark brown sugar. These dry ingredients will form the base of your Decadent Caramel-Filled Pecan Pie Bites.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, pour in ½ cup of melted unsalted butter and 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the mixture holds its shape when pressed. This will ensure that your Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls have a rich and cohesive texture.
Step 4: Shape the Balls
Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. You should be able to make around 20-24 balls, depending on the size.
Step 5: Create the Indent
Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press an indent into the center of each ball. This will create a well for the caramel filling.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the balls in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. The aroma of toasty pecans and butter will fill your kitchen!
Step 7: Melt the Caramel
While the pecan balls are cooling, melt 1 cup of soft caramel candies in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each session until smooth.
Step 8: Add the Caramel Filling
Carefully spoon the melted caramel into the center of each pecan ball. Sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt over the caramel for that perfect sweet-salty balance.
Step 9: Garnish and Set
Top each Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Ball with a whole pecan half for garnish. Let the caramel set before serving or storing.
Helpful Tips for Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls
To make the best Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls, here are a few tips:
- Use fresh pecans: Freshly chopped pecans will give your bites a vibrant, nutty flavor.
- Work quickly with caramel: Caramel hardens fast, so be sure to spoon it onto the pecan balls while it’s still warm and pliable.
- Keep the balls small: This ensures a perfect balance of textures in every bite—crispy, gooey, and nutty.
Cooking Tips for the Best Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls
Mastering the art of Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls comes down to technique. Here are some cooking techniques to ensure they turn out perfectly every time:
- Don’t overbake the pecan balls: They should be golden, not dark brown. Overbaking will result in a dry texture.
- Microwave caramel with care: Stir between intervals to prevent scorching.
- Use parchment paper: This prevents sticking and ensures an easy cleanup.
Serving Suggestions
These Decadent Caramel-Filled Pecan Pie Bites are perfect on their own, but for an extra-special touch, serve them with:
- A side of vanilla ice cream for a cool contrast to the gooey caramel.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa to balance the sweetness with a warm, comforting beverage.
For presentation, arrange the balls on a transparent glass plate to highlight the rich golden color and caramel sheen. The presentation will make them stand out at any party or holiday gathering!
Nutritional Information
Although these treats are undeniably indulgent, they also pack a few nutritional benefits thanks to the pecans. Pecans are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, making these Decadent Caramel-Filled Pecan Pie Bites not just delicious, but a source of some essential nutrients.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g
Storage and Leftovers
To keep your Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls fresh, follow these tips:
- Storage: Store the pecan pie balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to store them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
- Freezing: These balls can also be frozen! Place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: If you want to enjoy these warm, simply microwave them for 10-15 seconds to soften the caramel.
4 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans? Yes! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut flavor.
2. Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely. You can make Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls a day or two ahead and store them in the fridge.
3. What’s the best way to melt caramel? The microwave is the quickest option, but you can also melt caramel using a double boiler for more control.
4. Are these gluten-free? You can easily make them gluten-free by using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
Related Recipes
If you love these Decadent Caramel-Filled Pecan Pie Bites, try these other similar recipes from Optimal Recipes:
Conclusion
These Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls are sure to become a favorite in your household, thanks to their gooey caramel center and crunchy pecan topping. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, they’re easy, delicious, and oh-so-addictive. Don’t forget to try them with a scoop of ice cream or a cup of coffee for the ultimate treat!
We’d love to hear from you! Did you make this recipe? Share your experience and any personal variations in the comments below. Happy baking!
Print
Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls – Easy & Delicious Treat
Description
Welcome to another delicious adventure in the world of baking! Today, we’re diving into an irresistible recipe that will satisfy your sweet tooth cravings—Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls. These bite-sized treats are perfect for anyone who loves the rich flavors of pecan pie combined with gooey caramel goodness. Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a family gathering, or just indulging yourself, these Decadent Caramel-Filled Pecan Pie Bites will be the star of the show. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to create these Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls that are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups pecans, finely chopped – The star ingredient that gives these balls their nutty flavor.
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs – Adds a lovely crunch and helps bind the mixture.
- ½ cup dark brown sugar – For that rich, molasses-like sweetness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Makes the dough rich and cohesive.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor with a sweet, aromatic touch.
- 1 cup soft caramel candies, melted – The gooey center that makes these bites irresistible.
- 1 pinch of sea salt – To balance the sweetness and add depth to the flavors.
- Whole pecan halves for garnish – Adds the perfect finishing touch for visual appeal and an extra crunch.
Optional Substitutions:
- If you’re allergic to nuts, you can substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or crushed pretzels.
- For a gluten-free option, replace the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure that your Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls don’t stick and come out perfectly crispy.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of finely chopped pecans, 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, and ½ cup of dark brown sugar. These dry ingredients will form the base of your Decadent Caramel-Filled Pecan Pie Bites.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, pour in ½ cup of melted unsalted butter and 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the mixture holds its shape when pressed. This will ensure that your Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Balls have a rich and cohesive texture.
Step 4: Shape the Balls
Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. You should be able to make around 20-24 balls, depending on the size.
Step 5: Create the Indent
Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press an indent into the center of each ball. This will create a well for the caramel filling.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the balls in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. The aroma of toasty pecans and butter will fill your kitchen!
Step 7: Melt the Caramel
While the pecan balls are cooling, melt 1 cup of soft caramel candies in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each session until smooth.
Step 8: Add the Caramel Filling
Carefully spoon the melted caramel into the center of each pecan ball. Sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt over the caramel for that perfect sweet-salty balance.
Step 9: Garnish and Set
Top each Gooey Caramel Pecan Pie Ball with a whole pecan half for garnish. Let the caramel set before serving or storing.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Use fresh pecans: Freshly chopped pecans will give your bites a vibrant, nutty flavor.
- Work quickly with caramel: Caramel hardens fast, so be sure to spoon it onto the pecan balls while it’s still warm and pliable.
- Keep the balls small: This ensures a perfect balance of textures in every bite—crispy, gooey, and nutty.
