If you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven, No Bake Coconut Cream Balls are the perfect treat. These little bites are rich, creamy, and loaded with coconut flavor, making them an irresistible snack or dessert. With their smooth filling and delicate coconut coating, they’re ideal for holidays, parties, or anytime you want a quick homemade indulgence. Best of all, they require just a few simple ingredients and can be made ahead, so you’ll always have a sweet bite ready when cravings strike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking required—simple and quick to make.
- Creamy, coconut-rich flavor in every bite.
- Perfect for gifting, parties, or holiday trays.
- Easy to customize with chocolate, nuts, or other mix-ins.
No Bake Coconut Cream Balls: A Sweet Bite-Sized Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 20 balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious no-bake coconut cream balls made with shredded coconut, condensed milk, and coated in chocolate. A quick and easy sweet treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, melted
- Optional: 2 tablespoons crushed nuts or sprinkles for topping
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix shredded coconut, condensed milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Using your hands, shape mixture into small bite-sized balls and place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Dip each ball into melted chocolate, coating evenly. Place back on tray.
- Optional: Sprinkle with crushed nuts, coconut, or sprinkles before chocolate sets.
- Refrigerate for another 30 minutes until chocolate hardens. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For a stronger coconut flavor, toast some of the coconut before mixing.
- You can also roll them in cocoa powder or powdered sugar instead of dipping in chocolate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Sweetened condensed milk – creates the creamy base and binds the mixture.
Shredded coconut – adds texture and intense coconut flavor.
Powdered sugar – sweetens and helps firm up the mixture.
Butter – adds richness and helps hold everything together.
Vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor.
Salt – balances the sweetness.
Optional chocolate coating – for dipping or drizzling to make them even more indulgent.
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, softened butter, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and shredded coconut, stirring until well combined. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- Once chilled, roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls using your hands.
- Roll each ball in additional shredded coconut until coated.
- Optional: Dip the balls in melted chocolate and allow to set on parchment paper for a richer variation.
- Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Servings and timing
- Servings: About 20–24 balls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
storage/reheating
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
- No reheating required—these are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free condensed milk and vegan butter.
Can I toast the coconut?
Absolutely—lightly toasting the coconut gives extra flavor and crunch.
Do these taste like coconut macaroons?
They’re similar, but creamier and softer since they’re no-bake.
Can I coat these in chocolate?
Yes, dipping them in melted dark or milk chocolate makes them even more decadent.
How do I keep them from sticking to my hands when rolling?
Chill the mixture first and lightly coat your hands with powdered sugar or coconut.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Yes, it’s very kid-friendly since there’s no stove or oven involved.
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but you may need to adjust sugar levels for sweetness.
Can I add nuts?
Chopped almonds, pecans, or cashews add crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
No Bake Coconut Cream Balls are a quick, creamy, and coconut-packed dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you keep them plain, roll them in coconut, or dip them in chocolate, these bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without any fuss. They’re ideal for parties, gifting, or enjoying straight from the fridge when you need a little indulgence.
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