No-bake Chocolate Covered Coconut Balls: A Perfect Christmas Treat

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The holiday season is about sharing joy, and for me, as well as many others, the perfect way to do that is by sharing homemade treats!

These Chocolate-Covered Coconut Balls are a Christmas classic in my home, mainly because I’m a HUGE coconut fan. I will gladly seize any opportunity to cook with it.

Not only that, I also love a sweet treat that doesn’t require any baking. And if it involves chocolate, count me in.

Chocolate-covered coconut balls, with their rich chocolate coating and sweet, chewy coconut filling, are perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or simply enjoying by yourself at the end of a long day.

Let me show you how to create this simple, no-bake dessert that is sure to become one of your holiday favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple to Make: Just a handful of ingredients and no baking required!
  • Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in festive tins or bags for a thoughtful homemade gift.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults, they’re always a hit at parties.
  • Customizable: Add your personal touch with optional toppings

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to whip up a batch of these festive treats:

  • Shredded coconut (2 cups): The key ingredient for a sweet, tropical flavor.
  • Sweetened condensed milk (1/4 cup): Acts as a binder and adds creamy sweetness.
  • Coconut Oil (1-2 tbsp, melted): This makes the melted chocolate smoother and makes it easier to mix the coconut balls in; it thins out the chocolate nicely.
  • Chocolate (1 cup): For the coating—choose your favorite! I used semi-sweet
  • Optional: Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the flavor of the coconut.
  • Optional toppings: Holiday sprinkles, sea salt, or a drizzle of white chocolate for decoration.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Coconut Mixture

Combine the shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk in a large mixing bowl. Mix until thoroughly combined and the mixture holds together and you can form a large dough-like ball.

2. Form the Balls

Once chilled, scoop small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up before dipping into the melted chocolate.

3. Melt the Chocolate

While the balls are chilling, melt the chocolate and coconut oil together. Use a double boiler for smooth, even melting, or microwave the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring each time to prevent burning.

4. Dip and Decorate

Take the chilled coconut balls and dip each one into the melted chocolate, ensuring they’re fully coated. Use a spoon, fork or toothpick to lift them out.

Place the coated balls back on the parchment-lined sheet.

If you’re adding sprinkles, sea salt, or a drizzle of white chocolate, do so before the coating hardens.

5. Let the Chocolate Set

Allow the chocolate to set completely by placing the tray in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Print

Chocolate-Covered Coconut Balls

A no-bake treat perfect for the Holidays! Sweetened Coconut balls dipper in melted chocolate and chilled until it forms a hardened coat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Shredded Coconut
  • 1/4 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk
  • 1 cup Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips you can use dark chocolate or milk chocolate
  • 1 tbsp Coconut Oil helps to thin the melted chocolate for easier coating

Instructions

  • Line a baking tray with parchment paper
  • In a large bow, combine the shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk until it clings together and forms a large dough-like ball
  • Form your coconut balls and place onto the wax paper-lined tray
  • Place tray into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes
  • Melt your chocolate. Combine coconut oil and chocolate chips in a microwave bowl. Microwave in 30-second increments until fully melted.
  • Using a fork or spoon, submerge every coconut ball in the melted chocolate until fully coated, then place back onto tray.
  • Place tray in the refrigerator for another 20 -30 minutes until the chocolate has hardened.
  • Dip the chocolate-covered coconut balls back into the melted chocolate to give it a second coating. This results in a thicker, prettier coating, but is optional.
  • Chill again until the chocolate coating has hardened.

Tips for Perfect Coconut Balls

  • Chill the Mixture: Chilling makes the coconut mixture easier to roll and prevents it from sticking to your hands.
  • Use Quality Chocolate: Good-quality chocolate makes a big difference in flavor and texture.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Try crushed candy canes, shredded coconut, or festive-colored sprinkles for a holiday twist.
  • Store Properly: Keep the finished balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

How to Serve and Gift These Treats

These Chocolate Covered Coconut Balls are as versatile as they are delicious.

Serve them on a festive platter at your next holiday gathering, or package them in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for gifting.

Add a handwritten note with the recipe for a thoughtful touch!

Variations to Try

  • Almond Joy Style: Add a whole almond to the center of each ball before dipping.
  • Peppermint Bliss: Swap vanilla extract for peppermint extract for a cool holiday flavor.
  • Fruit & Nut Medley: Mix in chopped dried cranberries or pecans for extra texture.

These Chocolate Covered Coconut Balls are a simple yet elegant treat that embodies the joy of the holiday season.

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, looking for a thoughtful gift, or just want to indulge in a sweet snack, this recipe has you covered.

If you try these coconut balls, I’d love to hear how they turn out! Leave a comment below or tag me on social media with your creations @natalielindahome.

Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later—happy holidays and happy candy making!