Homemade Malted Milk Balls Recipe

Name: Homemade Malted Milk Balls
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: Malted Filling; 1 cup malted milk powder; 1 cup powdered sugar; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened); 2 –3 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Coating; 1 ½ cups milk chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; Optional Substitutes; Oat milk powder + cocoa for a dairy-light version.; Vegetable shortening instead of coconut oil.; White chocolate for a sweeter shell.

I’ve always had a soft spot for malted milk balls, but I never imagined I’d be able to make them in my own kitchen without fancy equipment. The first time I attempted them, I underestimated how quickly the chocolate coating firms up—and let’s just say half of mine looked like tiny planets with craters. Once I learned to keep everything ready and move fast, the process became surprisingly fun.

What I love most about this recipe is how nostalgic it feels. The crunchy, airy center paired with that creamy chocolate shell hits every childhood memory. And the best part? When you make them at home, you can tweak the maltiness, the sweetness, and even the type of chocolate to match exactly what you like.

Ingredients

For the Malted Filling

1 cup malted milk powder
1 cup powdered sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2–3 tablespoons milk (start with 2 and add more only if needed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Coating

1 ½ cups milk chocolate chips (or dark chocolate for a richer flavor)
1 tablespoon coconut oil (helps the coating set smoothly)

Optional Substitutes

Use oat milk powder + cocoa powder if you need a dairy-light version (flavor will differ slightly).
Swap coconut oil with vegetable shortening if preferred.
Use white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier shell.

Instructions / Method

Start the malted base
In a mixing bowl, whisk together malted milk powder and powdered sugar. This prevents clumping later.
Bring the mixture together
Add the softened butter, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons of milk. Use a spatula or hand mixer on low. If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, add tiny splashes of milk until it forms a soft, workable dough.
Roll into balls
Break off small pieces and roll into balls about the size of a marble. If the mixture sticks to your hands, chill it for 10–15 minutes first—something I wish I had done on my first attempt.
Freeze briefly
Spread the balls on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 20–25 minutes. This makes them easier to coat and helps keep the centers crisp.
Melt the chocolate
Heat chocolate chips and coconut oil in 20-second intervals, stirring in between. When it’s mostly melted, rely on stirring to finish—this keeps the coating silky.
Coat the centers
Drop a few chilled balls into the chocolate at a time, roll to coat, and lift out with a fork, tapping gently to remove excess. Place back onto the parchment-lined tray.
Set the coating
Chill for another 10–15 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened. If your kitchen is warm, pop them into the fridge instead of letting them sit at room temperature.

@muths_candy

Preparation & Cooking Time

Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Serving Size: Makes about 35–40 malted milk balls

Serving Suggestions

If you want them extra glossy, drizzle a second lighter coating of chocolate once the first layer sets. I also love gifting these in mini jars—they stay crisp and adorable.
For storing, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Refrigeration is fine too, but it makes them slightly harder and crunchier.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely—they store well for a week and freeze beautifully for up to 2 months.

How do I store leftovers?
A sealed jar or container at room temp works perfectly.

What’s the best substitute for malted milk powder?
There’s no perfect replacement, but a mix of milk powder + cocoa powder gives a similar feel.

Can I freeze these?
Yes. Freeze in layers with parchment between them to prevent sticking.

How can I make them healthier?
Use dark chocolate, reduce the sugar slightly, or make smaller bite-sized balls.

Can I add flavors?
Yep! A tiny pinch of espresso powder or a drop of almond extract changes the whole vibe.

A Note from My Kitchen to Yours

Every time I make these malted milk balls, I feel like I’m recreating a treat I always wished came in “homemade quality.” They have that perfect combination of crunch, creaminess, and nostalgia—and once you get into the rhythm of rolling and dipping, the rest becomes a really calming process. I hope they bring a little sweetness and fun to your kitchen the way they do in mine. Enjoy every last bite.