In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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powdered sugar
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sweetened condensed milk
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vanilla extract
Stir with a sturdy spatula until the mixture forms a thick paste. It will be sticky — that’s normal.
Now add the shredded coconut and mix again. The mixture should be dense and scoopable. If it feels too wet, add an extra handful of coconut; if too dry, add a tablespoon of condensed milk.
Tip: Let the mixture rest 5 minutes so the coconut absorbs some moisture.
2. Shape the Coconut Balls
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Use a small cookie scoop, teaspoon, or your hands to scoop 1-inch portions of the mixture. Roll each portion into a ball and place it on the tray.
Chill the tray for at least 20–30 minutes.
Cold coconut balls dip into chocolate easier and hold their shape better.
If you’re rushed, pop them into the freezer for 10–15 minutes.
3. Melt the Chocolate
Add the chocolate chips and vegetable oil to a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring each time, until smooth.
Alternatively, melt chocolate over a double boiler.
The vegetable oil keeps the chocolate silky and makes dipping easier.
4. Dip the Coconut Balls
Remove the chilled coconut balls from the refrigerator.
Using a fork, toothpick, or dipping tool:
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Lower each ball into the melted chocolate.
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Lift it out and gently tap the fork on the bowl’s edge to remove excess chocolate.
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Place back onto the parchment paper.
As soon as you place each ball down, add toppings:
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Coconut flakes for a snowy finish
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Christmas sprinkles for festive colors
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Crushed nuts for texture
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A drizzle of melted white chocolate for contrast
Work quickly — the chocolate begins to set fast.
5. Let Them Set
Allow the truffles to sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes or refrigerate for 10 minutes.
Once firm, transfer to an airtight container.
⭐ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigerator
Keep in an airtight container for up to 10 days.
Freezer Friendly
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Just thaw for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Perfect for Gifting
Coconut Balls hold their shape beautifully, making them perfect for:
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Cookie tins
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Christmas dessert trays
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Neighbor gifts
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Teacher treats
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Holiday parties
Add mini cupcake liners like in the photo for a clean, professional look.
⭐ Variations to Try
1. Almond Joy Style
Add a whole almond to the center before rolling.
2. Double Chocolate
Dip in dark chocolate and drizzle with white chocolate.
3. Peppermint Coconut
Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract to the filling.
4. Toasted Coconut Version
Toast part of the coconut before mixing for a deeper flavor.
5. Nutella Coconut Balls
Press a tiny scoop of Nutella into the center before rolling.
⭐ Troubleshooting & Tips
Mixture too sticky?
Add more coconut or let it chill longer.
Mixture too dry?
Add 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk at a time.
Chocolate too thick?
Microwave 15 seconds or add ½ teaspoon vegetable oil.
Coconut balls falling apart during dipping?
Chill longer — cold balls are essential.
⭐ Serving Suggestions
These bite-sized treats are perfect to enjoy:
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With hot chocolate
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After dinner
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On a holiday dessert board
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Packed in Christmas tins
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As part of a cookie exchange
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With coffee or tea
Their texture — a creamy, chewy coconut center wrapped in smooth chocolate — makes them one of the most irresistible no-bake treats of the holidays.
⭐ Full Recipe Card
Coconut Balls – Easy No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Truffles
Ingredients:
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2 cups powdered sugar
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1 can sweetened condensed milk
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2 tsp vanilla
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3 cups fine or medium shredded coconut
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8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
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2 ¼ tsp vegetable oil
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Optional toppings: coconut, sprinkles, crushed nuts, white chocolate drizzle
Instructions:
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Mix powdered sugar, condensed milk, and vanilla in a bowl.
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Add coconut and stir until combined.
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Roll into 1-inch balls and chill 20–30 minutes.
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Melt chocolate and oil together until smooth.
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Dip each chilled ball in chocolate and place on parchment.
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Add toppings immediately.
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Let set and store in an airtight container.
⭐ Final Thoughts
These Coconut Balls are everything a holiday dessert should be: simple, sweet, beautiful, and unbelievably delicious. With their chewy coconut interior and chocolate shell, they’re the kind of treat people request year after year.
