No-Bake Coconut Cream Balls are a sweet, creamy treat that’s easy to make and perfect for coconut lovers. These bite-sized delights combine the rich flavor of shredded coconut with a hint of vanilla, and they can be coated in chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: With no baking required, these treats come together in no time.
Customizable: You can enhance the flavor with extracts, add-ins like nuts, or even a tropical twist.
Great for Sharing: Perfect for parties, gifts, or just a sweet snack to enjoy at home.
Chocolate Option: Add a chocolate coating for a rich and decadent finish.
Make-Ahead Friendly: These can be stored in the fridge or freezer, making them ideal for planning ahead.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or coconut extract for extra flavor)
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, melted (optional, for coating)
Additional shredded coconut (optional, for rolling)
Directions
Prepare the Coconut Mixture:
Combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt in a mixing bowl. Mix until everything is well combined and sticks together.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to make the mixture easier to handle.
Shape the Balls:
Scoop out portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) using a spoon or your hands.
Roll each portion into a ball and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Add Coating (Optional):
Roll the balls in additional shredded coconut for a textured look, if desired.
For a chocolate coating, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off before placing it back on the sheet.
Chill:
Refrigerate the tray of coconut balls for at least 1 hour to set.
Allow the chocolate coating to harden before serving, if applicable.
Servings and Timing
Servings: This recipe makes about 20-25 coconut cream balls, depending on size.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour (30 minutes for the mixture + 30 minutes for setting)
Variations
Nutty Addition: Mix in 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for added crunch.
Tropical Twist: Stir in a few tablespoons of well-drained crushed pineapple for a fruity flavor.
Extract Swap: Use almond extract or a blend of vanilla and coconut extracts for a different flavor profile.
Chocolate Variety: Use white or milk chocolate for the coating instead of dark chocolate.
Decorative Coating: Roll in sprinkles or drizzle with contrasting chocolate for a festive look.
Storage/Reheating
Store the coconut cream balls in an airtight container:
Refrigerator: Keep them chilled for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
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FAQs
How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?
I like to lightly coat my hands with a bit of oil or water while rolling the balls to make the process easier.
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
Yes, but the texture and sweetness will be slightly different. You may need to adjust the condensed milk for better binding.
Is it possible to make these dairy-free?
Yes, substitute sweetened condensed coconut milk and use dairy-free chocolate for a vegan-friendly version.
How do I store the chocolate-coated balls without them sticking together?
Layer the chocolate-coated balls with parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking.
Can I make smaller or larger balls?
Absolutely! Just adjust the portion size to your preference and note that the chilling time may vary slightly.
Conclusion
No-Bake Coconut Cream Balls are a simple yet indulgent treat that’s sure to impress. Whether you enjoy them plain, rolled in coconut, or coated in chocolate, these creamy bites are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for parties, gifting, or a quick dessert fix, these versatile treats will become a staple in your recipe collection.
📖 Recipe:
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No-Bake Coconut Cream Balls
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 20-25 balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No-Bake Coconut Cream Balls are the ultimate quick and easy dessert for coconut lovers. With a creamy, rich flavor, they’re perfect for parties, gifting, or a sweet snack. Customize these treats with chocolate coating, nuts, or tropical flavors for a versatile, no-bake indulgence.
Ingredients
2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or coconut extract)
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, melted (optional)
Additional shredded coconut (optional, for rolling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Coconut Mixture: Combine coconut, condensed milk, vanilla, and salt in a bowl. Mix until combined, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Shape the Balls: Scoop and roll 1-tablespoon portions into balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Optional Coating: Roll balls in shredded coconut or dip in melted chocolate. Allow excess chocolate to drip before placing back on the tray.
- Chill: Refrigerate the balls for 1 hour or until set.
Notes
For a nutty flavor, mix in chopped almonds or pecans.
Dairy-free options: Use sweetened condensed coconut milk and vegan chocolate.
Store in an airtight container: 1 week in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 20-25 balls
