Ingredients
Scale
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful treats.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened)
- 12 oz melting chocolate chips (milk or dark)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use vegan cream cheese and coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Swap powdered sugar for a sugar-free alternative like erythritol for a low-sugar option.
- Dark chocolate (70% or higher) can be substituted for milk chocolate if you prefer a less sweet, richer flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand or stand mixer
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Fork (for dipping)
- Small spatula
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Cream Mixture
- Softening Ingredients : Let cream cheese and butter soften at room temperature.
- Mix the Base : In a mixing bowl (or a standing mixer) beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Sweeten It Up : Slowly mix in powdered sugar, one cup at a time, blending thoroughly to prevent clumps.
- Add Coconut : Mix in shredded, sweetened coconut until fully incorporated.
- Chill Refrigerate: mixture until firm, at least 1 hour (to make it easier to shape).
Step 2: Roll Into Balls
- Dust Your Hands: Use powdered sugar so that the mixture won’t stick to your hands.
- Shape: Roll about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into a ball. Try to get them about 1 inch wide. Transfer them to your prepared baking sheet.
- Freeze: Transfer the tray to the freezer for 1 hour. This helps the balls keep their shape in the dip.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
- Microwave Method: Add the chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
- Double Boiler: Melt chocolate over double boiler while continuously stirring to prevent burning.
- Thin the Chocolate (Optional): Mix a little coconut oil into your melted chocolate for a thinner coating.
Step 4: Coat the Coconut Balls
- Dip : Using a fork, dip each frozen ball into the melted chocolate, making sure to coat evenly.
- Tap Off Excess: Tap the fork lightly on the edge of the bowl to shake off excess chocolate.
- Set: Return the coated balls to the parchment-lined sheet.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate : Put the tray in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes until the chocolate hardens completely.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish or pack into pretty gift boxes for a thoughtful homemade treat.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Coconut Cream Balls
- Prevent Hands Sticking: Dust your hands often with powdered sugar when you are rolling.
- Troubleshooting Coating: If your chocolate thickens while you are dipping, microwave briefly, 10 or 15 seconds, to reheat.
- Perfect Decorations: Use shredded coconut, chopped nuts, white chocolate drizzle.
How to Serve Coconut Cream Balls
These irresistible little bites make for an ideal snack for any occasion!
- Party Platters : Serve in mini cupcake liners for an elegant presentation.
- Gift Items : Pack into cute tins lined with parchment paper for layers.
- Snack Pairing : Enjoy with coffee or hot chocolate for double the decadence.
Storing & Freezing Tips
- Refrigerate: In an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Freeze in one layer, then move to a freezer-safe container for 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before eating.
- Traveling: Transport them home in an insulated bag with an ice pack to prevent melting the chocolate.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian