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
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- 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.