If you love the rich, buttery flavors of pecan pie but want a bite-sized treat that’s easy to share and impossible to resist, this Pecan Pie Truffles Recipe is exactly what you need. These little gems combine crumbly pecan shortbread cookies, tangy cream cheese, and the classic crunch of toasted pecans all enrobed in smooth vanilla almond bark. Whether you’re sneaking one for yourself or passing them around at a holiday gathering, these truffles will quickly become your new favorite indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white chocolate bar with 15 square sections placed on a white marbled surface at the top left side. To the right of the chocolate, there is a silver wrapped block of cream cheese with blue text, lying flat. Below both, a small white bowl filled with whole pecan nuts sits in the center. Surrounding the bowl, there are seven golden-yellow mini cookies evenly spread in a slight curve. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are delightfully simple yet perfectly balanced to create that melt-in-your-mouth texture and pecan pie taste you adore. Each component plays a crucial role, from the buttery basis of pecan shortbread cookies to the creamy richness of softened cream cheese and the sweet smoothness of vanilla almond bark.

  • Pecan shortbread cookies (11.3 oz): These form the crumbly base, delivering nutty depth and buttery flavor with every bite.
  • Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Adds a luscious, tangy creaminess that binds the cookie crumbs and gives the truffles a smooth texture.
  • Vanilla almond bark (24 oz): Provides a sweet, creamy coating that hardens just right for dipping and decorating.
  • Pecan halves (½ cup): Toasted and chopped, they add a delightful crunch and authentic pecan pie flair.

How to Make Pecan Pie Truffles Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Mixture

Start by finely crushing the pecan shortbread cookies into crumbs using a food processor or a sturdy plastic bag and rolling pin. The crumbs should be fine enough to mix smoothly with the cream cheese, ensuring the truffles hold together with that perfect crumbly-yet-creamy texture.

Step 2: Combine with Cream Cheese

Next, add the softened cream cheese to the cookie crumbs. Using a spatula or your hands, mix thoroughly until all crumbs are evenly coated and a thick, dough-like consistency forms. It’s important that the cream cheese is soft so it blends seamlessly, giving the truffles their signature gooey center.

Step 3: Form the Truffles

Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls — about one inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to chill for at least 30 minutes, which helps them firm up and makes dipping easier.

Step 4: Melt the Vanilla Almond Bark

While the truffles chill, melt the vanilla almond bark gently in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler. Stir frequently to ensure a smooth, lump-free coating, which will give your truffles that glossy, professional finish.

Step 5: Dip and Decorate

Using a fork or dipping tool, coat each truffle in the melted vanilla almond bark fully, then place back on parchment paper. Before the coating sets, sprinkle chopped pecan halves on top to add extra crunch and enhance the appearance with those classic pecan pie accents.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Truffles Recipe

The image shows a four-step process of making a dessert. The first layer is a clear glass bowl with a base of yellow crumbs and a block of white soft cheese on top. The second layer is the same bowl but now mixed into a creamy yellow dough with a slightly crumbly texture. The third layer shows small round balls of the yellow dough arranged neatly on a baking paper with a white marbled surface below. The last layer shows the same balls now coated in smooth white icing and topped with a single brown pecan half on each piece, still on the baking paper. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a stunning presentation, add a pinch of flaky sea salt or a light dusting of cinnamon over the dipped truffles. These small touches boost flavor and add a lovely visual appeal, making each bite a little more special.

Side Dishes

Pecan Pie Truffles are perfect on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee, rich hot chocolate, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Their sweet, nutty flavor complements these classic beverages and desserts beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your truffles in mini paper cupcake liners or place them on a decorative platter with fresh pecans and autumn leaves for a cozy, inviting look. You can also package them in cellophane bags tied with ribbon to share these delightful treats with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pecan Pie Truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for about 1 week, maintaining their rich flavor and smooth texture without drying out.

Freezing

If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze the truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, making them perfect for preparing in advance for celebrations.

Reheating

To enjoy frozen truffles, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Bring them to room temperature before serving so the texture is soft and the flavors shine. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the coating and texture adversely.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie instead of pecan shortbread?

Absolutely! While pecan shortbread gives an authentic pecan pie flavor, you can experiment with other buttery cookies like graham crackers or vanilla wafers, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese before mixing?

Yes, softening cream cheese is key to achieving a smooth, even mixture with the cookie crumbs. Cold cream cheese won’t mix well and may result in lumps or uneven texture.

Can I substitute the vanilla almond bark with white chocolate?

Yes! White chocolate works as a delicious alternative and pairs wonderfully with the pecan pie flavors. Just be sure to melt it gently and temper as needed for the best coating texture.

How do I ensure the truffles don’t fall apart when dipping?

Chill the truffle balls thoroughly before dipping; this firms them up and helps keep their shape during the coating process. Using a fork or dipping tool also helps support the truffles as you coat them.

Are these truffles suitable for holiday gifts?

Definitely! Pecan Pie Truffles Recipe makes for an elegant and tasty gift. Package them in decorative boxes or tins with festive ribbons to delight any pecan pie lover on your list.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about turning a classic pecan pie flavor into a bite-sized, shareable delight, and this Pecan Pie Truffles Recipe does just that with ease and elegance. Once you try making these, you’ll find they brighten up any occasion and satisfy those sweet cravings like no other. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to these irresistible pecan pie treasures!

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Pecan Pie Truffles Recipe

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4.2 from 28 reviews

Delightfully rich and bite-sized, these Pecan Pie Truffles combine buttery pecan shortbread cookies with creamy cream cheese, all coated in a smooth vanilla almond bark and topped with crunchy pecan halves. Perfect for festive occasions or an elegant sweet treat any time of year.

  • Author: Linda
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes (melting almond bark)
  • Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes (including cooling and setting times)
  • Yield: Approximately 24 truffles
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Base

  • 1 package pecan shortbread cookies (11.3 oz)
  • 1 brick cream cheese (8 oz), softened to room temperature

Coating & Topping

  • 1 bar vanilla almond bark (24 oz)
  • ½ cup pecan halves

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base mixture: Place the pecan shortbread cookies in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed cookies with the softened cream cheese and mix well until a smooth, even dough forms.
  2. Shape the truffles: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  3. Melt the coating: Break the vanilla almond bark into pieces and melt it in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
  4. Coat the truffles: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled truffle ball into the melted almond bark, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow excess coating to drip off, then place back on the lined baking sheet.
  5. Add pecan topping: While the coating is still wet, gently press one or two pecan halves on top of each truffle for garnish and added crunch.
  6. Set the truffles: Refrigerate the coated truffles for at least 1 hour or until the coating is completely set and firm.
  7. Serve and store: Once set, serve the Pecan Pie Truffles chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Notes

  • Allow the cream cheese to soften completely for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
  • You can substitute vanilla almond bark with white chocolate if preferred.
  • For added flavor, consider stirring in a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the base mixture.
  • Keep the truffles refrigerated to maintain firmness, especially in warm environments.
  • These truffles make excellent gifts when packaged in decorative boxes or tins.

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