No-Bake Coconut Balls: The Lazy Genius’s Sweet Escape
Picture this: it’s 3 PM, your to-do list is still screaming, and all you want is something sweet—but turning on the oven feels like running a marathon. That’s where these no-bake coconut balls swoop in like dessert superheroes. Two ingredients, zero stress, and all the chewy coconutty goodness.
✨ Why You’ll Love These
- Two ingredients. Yes, just two.
- No baking. Your oven can keep its beauty sleep.
- Perfect texture. Chewy, sweet, and a little bit dreamy.
- Customizable. Keep ’em simple or jazz ’em up with extras.
- Fridge-friendly. Make ahead and snack later = genius.
🛒 What You Need
- 14 oz unsweetened shredded coconut, plus extra for coating
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
Optional (but fabulous):
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Melted chocolate for drizzling/dipping
🧰 Handy Tools
- Food processor (or skip if you’re cool with texture)
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Baking sheet + parchment paper
- Tablespoon or cookie scoop
- Your fridge (aka the real MVP)
👩🍳 How to Make Coconut Balls
- Blitz your coconut in a food processor until crumbly (not paste-like!).
- Mix it in a bowl with sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and salt (if using).
- Scoop & roll into bite-sized balls. Too sticky? Pop the mix in the fridge for 15–20 mins.
- Roll each ball in more coconut to coat.
- Chill on a parchment-lined tray for at least 1 hour.
- Optional glam: Drizzle or dip in melted chocolate. 😍
🔥 Pro Tips
- Chill before rolling if it’s sticky—makes shaping so much easier.
- Don’t use sweetened coconut or it might be too sweet (yes, that’s a thing).
- Store in the fridge for freshness and the perfect texture.
- Going fancy? Dip in dark chocolate or add chopped almonds for crunch.
📊 Nutritional Info (Per Ball)
- Calories: ~115
- Fat: 9g
- Sugar: 7g
- Carbs: 9g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
(Rough estimate – depends on your add-ins!)
🙋♀️ FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They last up to a week in the fridge.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely—freeze in a sealed container, then thaw in the fridge.
Can I use sweetened coconut?
Technically yes, but it’ll be super sweet. Balance it out by using less condensed milk.
Why is it sticking to my hands?
Try chilling the mixture first or lightly oiling your hands with coconut oil.
Any fun flavor ideas?
Totally! Add cocoa powder, citrus zest, cinnamon, or crushed nuts.
Are these gluten-free?
Yep—just make sure your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I use low-fat condensed milk?
You can, but full-fat gives the best texture and flavor.
🎉 Final Thoughts
These no-bake coconut balls are the definition of maximum reward, minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting, meal-prepping snacks, or just need a lazy-day treat, they’ve got your back. So make a batch, stash them in the fridge, and treat yourself on demand. You’ve earned it.