Chocolate Coconut Snowballs

Chocolate Coconut Snowballs are one of those treats that look festive without trying too hard. They’re rich, soft, and chocolatey on the inside, rolled in a fluffy coating of coconut that makes them feel light and indulgent at the same time. I keep coming back to this recipe because it’s simple, reliable, and always gets that quiet “these are really good” reaction after the first bite.

What I appreciate most about these snowballs is how forgiving they are. The mixture doesn’t demand perfection, and a few small tweaks can easily make them sweeter, darker, or more coconut-forward depending on the mood I’m in.

Ingredients

Chocolate Coconut Snowball Filling

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
¾ cup crushed chocolate cookies or chocolate cake crumbs
½ cup sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

For Rolling

1 to 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut

Optional Add-Ins

¼ cup mini chocolate chips
1 tablespoon rum or coconut extract
Finely chopped nuts

Instructions / Method

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a medium bowl, combine:

Crushed chocolate cookies
Cocoa powder
Salt

Mix until evenly blended with no cocoa clumps.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Stir in:

Sweetened condensed milk
Melted coconut oil
Vanilla extract

Mix until the mixture starts coming together into a thick, sticky dough.

Step 3: Fold in Coconut

Add:

Shredded coconut

Mix gently until everything is evenly distributed. The texture should be:

Soft
Slightly sticky
Easy to scoop

If it feels too dry, add condensed milk one teaspoon at a time.
If too wet, add a bit more coconut.

Step 4: Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl
Refrigerate for 30–45 minutes

Chilling helps the snowballs hold their shape when rolling.

Step 5: Roll the Snowballs

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture
Roll gently between your palms
Place on a parchment-lined tray

Step 6: Coat with Coconut

Roll each ball in shredded coconut until fully coated.
Press lightly so the coconut sticks evenly.

Step 7: Final Chill

Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes
Allow them to firm up before serving

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Preparation & Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: About 1 hour
Total Time: Around 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 22–26 snowballs

Texture and Flavor

Chocolate Coconut Snowballs have:

A soft, fudgy center
Gentle coconut chew
Balanced sweetness
Deep chocolate flavor without heaviness

They feel indulgent but not overwhelming, which makes them easy to enjoy more than one.

Tips for Best Results

Use finely shredded coconut for a smoother texture
Chill before rolling to avoid sticky hands
Don’t over-pack the coconut coating
Let them rest after rolling so flavors settle
Use good-quality cocoa powder for richer flavor

Serving Suggestions

These snowballs are perfect for:

Holiday dessert trays
No-bake cookie platters
Afternoon coffee breaks
Gifting in small boxes or jars

Serve them:

Slightly chilled for clean bites
At cool room temperature for extra softness

They pair well with:

Coffee
Hot chocolate
Coconut or almond milk drinks

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerator:

Store in an airtight container
Keeps well for up to 6 days

Freezer:

Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months
Thaw in the refrigerator before serving

Layer parchment paper between rows to prevent sticking.

Easy Variations

Dark Chocolate Coconut Snowballs

Use dark cocoa powder
Add dark chocolate chips

Almond Joy–Inspired Version

Add chopped almonds
Drizzle with melted chocolate

Boozy Coconut Snowballs

Add 1 tablespoon rum or coconut liqueur

Dairy-Free Option

Use coconut condensed milk
Ensure cookies are dairy-free

Less Sweet Version

Use unsweetened coconut
Reduce condensed milk slightly

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the chilling step
Adding too much condensed milk at once
Using large coconut flakes
Rolling before the mixture firms up
Over-handling, which melts the coconut oil

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, they’re ideal to make a day or two in advance.

Do they need baking?

No, these are completely no-bake.

Can I use desiccated coconut?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly drier.

Are they freezer-friendly?

Very much so. Just thaw gently in the fridge.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

Yes, use unsweetened coconut and darker cocoa powder.

A Sweet Little Winter Treat

Chocolate Coconut Snowballs are the kind of recipe you’ll reach for when you want something comforting, easy, and quietly impressive. They don’t need decoration or fancy steps to shine. Just a bowl, a little time, and a craving for something chocolatey and cozy — and they deliver every time.