Pin it
These boozy chocolate pecan bites mix decadent chocolate, crunchy toasted nuts, and velvety Baileys into fancy mini treats. They're great for gatherings or as gifts, combining rich chocolate flavors with warm Irish cream notes and satisfying nutty texture. This fan-favorite started as a simple book club snack but quickly turned into the most requested sweet at every party.
What Makes Them Special
The magic of these treats comes from how well the flavors work together. Graham cracker crumbs create a moist, rich base that supports everything else. The Baileys adds complexity without being too strong, and having nuts both inside and outside gives you an amazing crunch with every bite. Unlike fancier truffle recipes, you won't need special equipment or chocolate-tempering skills—just good stuff and a bit of time.
Key Components
- Chocolate Graham Crackers (300g): They form a soft, tasty foundation. Crush them into tiny crumbs for the best texture.
- Pecans (200g): Always toast them first for better flavor, then grind them leaving some small pieces visible.
- Dark Chocolate (250g): Go for 60-70% cocoa for the right balance between sweetness and chocolate intensity.
- Powdered Sugar (120g): Run it through a sieve before using to avoid any lumps.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (200ml): This glues everything together and adds creamy richness.
- Baileys Irish Cream (120ml): The classic version works great, but feel free to try flavored options like salted caramel.
- Extra pecans (100g): For rolling, chop these a bit larger than the ones in the filling.
Making Your Sweet Treats
- Get Your Base Ready
- Crush graham crackers until they're super fine, then separately pulse those toasted pecans until they're chunky but small. Mix them in a big bowl and put aside.
- Make The Chocolate Part
- Melt your dark chocolate in the microwave using short 30-second bursts, giving it a good stir between each. Let it cool a bit before moving on.
- Mix Everything Together
- Blend the melted chocolate with the sifted sugar and condensed milk until it's smooth. Pour in the Baileys bit by bit, then mix in the graham-pecan mixture until everything's combined.
- Cool It Down
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap pushed right onto the mixture. Pop it in the fridge for 1-2 hours until it's firm enough to handle.
- Form Your Truffles
- Use a tablespoon or small scoop to portion out the mix, then roll into round balls. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.
- Add The Outer Layer
- Roll each ball in your chopped pecans, pressing softly so they stick. Put them back on the parchment-lined tray.
- Let Them Set
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes until they're nice and firm with a set coating.
Tricks For Perfect Results
Watch your temperatures when making these. Keep stuff cool but not freezing cold, and work in a room that isn't too hot. When rolling, slightly cool hands work best—run them under cool water and dry them between batches. If your mixture gets too soft to work with, stick it back in the fridge for 15 minutes. Don't press too hard when adding the coating or you'll squish your truffles. If the nuts aren't sticking well, quickly roll the truffle between your palms to warm the surface just a little.
Pin it
Stylish Serving Ideas
Show off these treats by putting them in small candy papers or petit four cups. If you're giving them as gifts, layer them in a box with parchment paper, adding extra sheets between layers so they don't stick together. Serve them slightly cool but not cold—take them out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving so the flavors can really come alive. They're amazing with coffee, a sweet dessert wine, or another small glass of Baileys for a fancy after-dinner treat.
Keeping Them Fresh
Keep your truffles in a sealed container in the fridge to maintain freshness. They'll taste best within a week, though the flavors actually get better during the first few days. Want to make them way ahead? You can freeze the balls before coating them for up to three months. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge, then add the pecan coating right before serving. When giving as gifts, tell people to enjoy them within 5 days and keep them refrigerated for the tastiest experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → No Baileys handy?
Use Irish cream coffee creamer to skip alcohol, or any other flavored liqueur for something different.
- → What chocolate works best?
Dark chocolate (72%) has bold flavors. Milk chocolate makes them sweeter.
- → Sticky dough issue?
If shaping’s tough, chill the mix for longer. Cold dough’s easier to handle.
- → How far ahead can I prep?
Store in the fridge and they’ll last up to seven days. The alcohol adds to their shelf life.
- → Can I use other nuts?
Swap in almonds or walnuts for pecans. Toast them for added depth in the flavor.