Easy Holiday Treats Recipe
These Easy Holiday Treats are no-bake coconut balls that combine shredded coconut with sweetened condensed milk or cream cheese for a deliciously sticky and sweet base. Customizable with coatings like extra coconut, cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or a dip in melted chocolate, they make for perfect bite-sized festive snacks that can be chilled or frozen for convenience.
- Author: Rico
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling time)
- Yield: Approximately 20-24 balls 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut (plus extra for rolling)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk or cream cheese (for binding)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for extra sweetness)
- Melted chocolate for dipping
- Chopped nuts or seeds for coating or filling
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded coconut with 1/2 cup of your chosen binder—either sweetened condensed milk or cream cheese—and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until a sticky dough forms. Adjust the consistency by adding more binder if too dry, or more coconut if too wet.
- Shape the Balls: Using a spoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll each between your palms into approximately 1-inch diameter balls. Place each shaped ball onto a parchment-lined tray to prepare for coating.
- Coat and Customize: Roll each ball in additional shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or chopped nuts to add texture and flavor. Alternatively, dip the balls into melted chocolate to create a rich outer shell. Place coated or dipped balls back onto parchment paper to set.
- Chill: Refrigerate the coconut balls for 30 to 60 minutes until firm. For faster setting, place the tray in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps the treats hold their shape and enhances their texture.
- Serve or Store: Serve the treats chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or freeze them for up to 3 months to maintain freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute sweetened condensed milk with cream cheese to alter the flavor and texture slightly.
- Powdered sugar is optional for those who prefer a sweeter treat.
- If dipping in chocolate, allow the balls to set completely to avoid melting.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Adjust sweetness and texture by balancing the amount of binder and shredded coconut used.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls (approx. 30g)
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 25 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Keywords: holiday treats, coconut balls, no-bake dessert, easy sweets, Christmas snacks, coconut recipes, chocolate dipped coconut balls