Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something truly irresistible about no-bake desserts: they’re simple, quick, and satisfying without requiring hours in the kitchen. These No-Bake Coconut Cream Balls are no exception. With their soft, creamy filling and delicate coconut coating, they make for the perfect sweet bite at any time of the day. Whether you need a treat for the holidays, a party platter, or just something to satisfy your sweet tooth, these coconut delights will never disappoint.
What I personally enjoy about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can keep it as simple as possible with pantry staples, or dress it up with add-ins like chopped nuts or melted chocolate. I once tried swapping the condensed milk for coconut milk, and while the texture changed slightly, the flavor was absolutely wonderful. These coconut cream balls are a true example of how a handful of basic ingredients can create something so delightful.
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No-Bake Coconut Cream Balls – A Delightful Bite-Sized Treat
- Total Time: 45 mins (including chilling)
- Yield: 20-24 balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These no-bake coconut cream balls are sweet, creamy, and covered in shredded coconut. They are quick to prepare, require no baking, and make a perfect treat for holidays, parties, or everyday snacking.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded coconut (unsweetened, plus extra for rolling)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sweetened condensed milk, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add the shredded coconut to the mixture and stir until well incorporated.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to shape.
- Once firm, roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls.
- Roll each ball in shredded coconut until fully coated.
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For extra flavor, you can dip the balls in melted chocolate before rolling in coconut.
- Toast the coconut lightly for a nuttier flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Dessert
- 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
This is the backbone of the recipe, providing sweetness and creaminess. It binds the mixture together so the balls hold their shape. If you prefer a lighter option, you could experiment with reduced-sugar condensed milk.
Desiccated coconut
Finely shredded unsweetened coconut adds texture and flavor to the filling. It also ensures that the balls are sturdy enough to roll and coat without crumbling apart.
Butter
A small amount of butter adds richness and smoothness to the filling. It balances the sweetness from the condensed milk while helping with consistency.
Powdered sugar
This gives the mixture extra sweetness while making the balls firm enough to roll. Sifting the sugar ensures that the filling stays smooth and lump-free.
Vanilla extract
Just a dash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making the coconut cream balls more aromatic and indulgent.
Extra desiccated coconut for coating
The final touch comes from rolling each ball in coconut, giving them their beautiful snowy appearance and an extra layer of flavor.
Directions
Begin by mixing the sweetened condensed milk and softened butter in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually stir in the powdered sugar, ensuring that it blends evenly into the mixture. Next, fold in the desiccated coconut and vanilla extract. You should end up with a soft, sticky dough that holds together when pressed.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes. This step is important because it firms up the dough, making it much easier to roll into balls. Once chilled, use your hands to shape the mixture into small bite-sized portions.
Roll each portion between your palms until smooth, then coat them generously in desiccated coconut. Place the finished balls onto a parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate again for at least an hour to allow them to set completely.
Once ready, serve them chilled. They can be enjoyed immediately or stored for later, making them a convenient make-ahead dessert option.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
- large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
- Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
- Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
- Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
- knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
- Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes around 20–24 coconut cream balls, depending on size. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, chilling requires an additional 1.5 hours, making the total time approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Coconut cream balls should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator before serving. Since these are no-bake, reheating is not required.
Variations and Customizations
Chocolate-Dipped Coconut Balls
Dip the chilled balls halfway into melted dark or milk chocolate for a luxurious twist.
Nutty Coconut Bites
Add crushed almonds, hazelnuts, or cashews into the filling for a crunchy surprise.
Coconut-Rum Balls
For adults, add a splash of coconut rum to the mixture for a boozy, holiday-style treat.
Almond Joy Style
Insert a whole almond inside each ball before rolling for a delightful hidden crunch.
Fruit-Infused Coconut Balls
Mix in chopped dried fruit like cranberries or apricots for a tangy contrast to the sweet coconut.
Matcha Coconut Balls
Add a teaspoon of matcha powder to the filling for a unique flavor and a subtle green tint.
Spiced Coconut Balls
Enhance the flavor with a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warming touch.
Chocolate-Coconut Layered Bites
Create two layers by mixing half the coconut dough with cocoa powder and stacking them before rolling.
Protein Coconut Balls
Mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder for a healthier, energy-boosting version.
Citrus Coconut Balls
Add lemon or orange zest to brighten the flavor and add a refreshing twist.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened shredded coconut instead of desiccated?
Yes, but reduce the powdered sugar since sweetened coconut will make the mixture much sweeter.
How do I prevent the mixture from being too sticky?
Chill the dough longer before rolling, and dust your hands lightly with powdered sugar.
Can I freeze coconut cream balls?
Absolutely. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Do I need to toast the coconut for coating?
Not required, but toasting adds a nutty flavor and golden color.
Conclusion
No-Bake Coconut Cream Balls are proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours of baking to create a delicious treat. They’re creamy, chewy, and perfectly sweet, making them ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea. With endless variations to try, you can adapt this recipe to suit any taste or occasion. Whether you stick with the classic version or experiment with flavors, these coconut delights are guaranteed to impress every time.