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I discovered these Chocolate Coconut Balls years ago when looking for an easy holiday treat and they've become my signature no-bake dessert! The combination of sweet coconut wrapped in rich chocolate creates pure magic in every bite. What I love most is how simple they are to make yet they look like they came from a fancy chocolate shop.
Perfect for Coconut Lovers
After years of making these treats I can tell you they're absolutely irresistible to coconut enthusiasts. The centers have this perfectly moist sweet coconut filling that pairs beautifully with the chocolate coating. I love watching people's faces light up when they bite into one it's like discovering a little piece of paradise!
Ingredients for Coconut Balls
- Desiccated Coconut: 1 ¾ cups (or shredded coconut, if preferred). For a finer texture, pulse regular shredded coconut in a blender.
- Powdered Sugar: 1 ¾ cups. This will sweeten the coconut mixture and help bind it together.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: ½ cup. This provides the moisture and richness for the coconut mixture.
- Dark or Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: 2 cups. These form the rich chocolate coating for the coconut balls.
- Shortening: 2 tablespoons. Used to help melt the chocolate smoothly for dipping.
Dipping Instructions
- Mix Coconut and Shape Balls
- In a large bowl, combine the powdered sugar, desiccated coconut, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until evenly mixed. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a pan lined with wax paper. Refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes.
- Melt Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and shortening together. Stir occasionally until smooth. This creates the chocolate coating for the coconut balls.
- Dip the Coconut Balls
- Once the coconut balls are firm, dip each one into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off. Place the dipped balls back on the wax paper and let them set in the refrigerator until the chocolate hardens.
Healthier Version of Coconut Balls
When friends ask for a lighter version I love suggesting my honey-sweetened variation. The natural sweetness pairs beautifully with dark chocolate and coconut oil creates this gorgeous shine on the coating. It's proof that healthier choices can still taste indulgent!
Extra Tips for Flavor
My favorite twist is hiding a toasted almond in the center it's like a homemade Almond Joy! Sometimes I'll mix crushed almonds right into the coconut mixture for extra crunch. The possibilities are endless and it's so fun experimenting with different variations.
Storing Your Chocolate Coconut Balls
These little treats keep beautifully in the fridge! I store mine in my grandmother's old cookie tin lined with wax paper between layers. They actually taste even better after a day or two when the flavors have had time to meld together.
Variations and Customizations
The joy of this recipe is how versatile it is! My kids love when I use white chocolate for coating and my husband prefers dark chocolate with sea salt sprinkled on top. During holidays I'll add festive sprinkles or edible glitter for extra sparkle.
How to Store Chocolate Coconut Balls
If you're lucky enough to have leftovers (which rarely happens in my house!) these beauties will keep for a couple weeks in the fridge. I love making a double batch and freezing some for unexpected guests. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight and they're perfect!
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh coconut instead of desiccated?
- Fresh coconut has too much moisture and won't hold together well. Stick with desiccated coconut for the right texture and consistency.
- → Why do we need shortening in the chocolate?
- Shortening helps thin the chocolate for easier dipping and creates a smoother coating that sets firmly. It also prevents the chocolate from blooming.
- → How long do these keep?
- Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they'll keep for up to 2 weeks. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
- → Can I freeze these candies?
- Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months. Place in an airtight container with wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- → Why isn't my mixture holding together?
- If too dry, add a bit more condensed milk. If too wet, add more powdered sugar or coconut. The mixture should hold its shape when rolled.