These soft and chewy coconut snowballs are a simple, no-bake treat, perfect for the holidays or any time you’re craving something sweet and tropical.
Did You Know?
Coconut snowballs are a popular treat worldwide, known for their versatility and simplicity. Their snowy appearance makes them a festive favorite during the winter holidays.
Yield
About 20 snowballs
Ingredients
2 cups shredded organic sweetened or naturally sweetened coconut, plus extra for rolling
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is sticky but holds together when pressed.
Refrigerate the mixture for about 20-30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Using your hands, scoop out small portions (about 1 tablespoon each) of the mixture and roll them into balls.
Roll each ball in the extra shredded coconut to coat completely, pressing gently to help the coconut stick.
Place the finished snowballs on a parchment-lined tray or plate. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutritional Information (Per Snowball)
Calories: 90, Protein: 1g, Carbohydrates: 9g, Fiber: 1g, Net Carbohydrates: 8g, Fat: 6g, Saturated Fat: 5g, Cholesterol: 2mg, Sodium: 20mg, Sugars: 7g, Glycemic Index: Medium
How These Coconut Snowballs Will Look and Taste
These snowballs are a treat for the eyes and the palate! Their smooth, creamy texture contrasts with the delicate crunch of shredded coconut on the outside. Each bite is sweet, rich, and infused with a tropical coconut flavor. Their snowy white appearance makes them perfect for holiday cookie trays or gifting.
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Use unsweetened coconut if you prefer a less sweet version of this recipe.
- Add a drop of almond or coconut extract for extra flavor.
- Place a small almond, raisin, or dried cranberry in the center of each snowball for a fun surprise.
- Coat some snowballs in powdered sugar or white chocolate for a decorative touch.
- Chill the mixture before rolling to make the process less sticky.
- Package these treats in festive tins or clear cellophane bags with ribbons for holiday gifts.
- Double the recipe to make a larger batch for parties or gatherings.
- Substitute sweetened condensed coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Add a tablespoon of melted white chocolate to the mixture for an extra creamy texture.
- Store in the freezer for up to a month and defrost as needed for a quick treat.
Let’s Learn About Naturally Sweetened Coconut
Naturally sweetened coconut is a healthier alternative to traditional sweetened coconut, often found in health food stores or organic sections. Unlike conventional options, which may use refined sugars and preservatives, naturally sweetened coconut is typically sweetened with cane sugar, coconut sugar, or other natural sweeteners.
This type of coconut retains its rich, tropical flavor while offering a cleaner ingredient list. It's perfect for recipes where you want to enhance sweetness without compromising on quality. Look for options labeled “organic” or “naturally sweetened” to ensure you’re getting a product free of artificial additives.