Prepare to fall in love with these Chocolate Coconut Balls. Made with a medley of nuts, pitted dates, and cacao powder, these balls are a delicious mix of textures and flavors. The addition of sea salt and vanilla extract enhances the taste, while the coconut oil and coconut flakes add a tropical twist.
These Chocolate Coconut Balls are more than just a dessert - they are a wholesome snack that you can enjoy anytime. They are easy to make and packed with nutrients from organic nuts and dates. Plus, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week, making them a convenient option for those busy days.
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and versatility. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward instructions, you'll have these tasty balls ready in no time. Moreover, this recipe offers a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks, with no added sugars or preservatives. So why not give it a try? You might find yourself making them over and over again.
Want to learn how to make this chocolate coconut balls recipe? Then keep on reading.
What are Chocolate Coconut Balls?
Chocolate coconut balls are a delightful treat that perfectly blends the richness of chocolate with the tropical freshness of coconut.
This recipe involves creating bite-sized balls from a mixture of organic nuts, dates, unsweetened coconut flakes, and cacao powder. The process is simple, yet the result is an irresistible, healthy dessert or snack that everyone will love.
Making chocolate coconut balls at home is a fantastic idea because it allows you to control the ingredients and their quality. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness to your liking.
These balls are a great source of energy and can be enjoyed anytime, whether you need a quick snack or a delightful dessert. The combination of chocolate and coconut creates a taste that is simply irresistible, making these balls a hit with both adults and kids alike.
So, why not give this recipe a try and experience the joy of homemade chocolate coconut balls?
Table of Contents
- What are Chocolate Coconut Balls?
- What Makes This Chocolate Coconut Balls Recipe Special?
- What You Need to Make Chocolate Coconut Balls at Home
- How to Make Chocolate Coconut Balls (Step-by-Step)
- Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Coconut Balls Ever
- Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Coconut Balls
- Recipe Variation Ideas for Chocolate Coconut Balls
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How to Store Leftover Chocolate Coconut Balls
- Video Tutorial to Make Chocolate Coconut Balls
- Similar Recipes You'll Love
- Printable Card
What Makes This Chocolate Coconut Balls Recipe Special?
Family favorite: These Vegan and gluten-free Chocolate Coconut Bites are a hit with the whole family. They're naturally sweetened, loaded with nuts, and enriched with natural cacao, making them a delicious, guilt-free dessert or snack that everyone will love.
Versatile: This recipe is adaptable to your taste preferences. You can easily substitute or add different types of nuts or even add dried fruits for a different flavor twist.
Crowd pleaser: These chocolate coconut bites are not only easy and quick to make, but they're also a surefire crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting a party or need a snack for a potluck, these bites will have everyone coming back for more. They're also a wonderful on-the-go snack, providing a quick energy boost when needed.
What You Need to Make Chocolate Coconut Balls at Home
All you need are some simple pantry staple ingredients to make this chocolate coconut balls recipe at home. Let's look at them in more detail:
- Pitted Dates: These sweet fruits are a natural sugar source in this recipe, giving the chocolate coconut balls a delightful sweetness without any added refined sugar.
- Walnuts: Walnuts add a wonderful crunch and a hint of earthy flavor to these bites. They also provide healthy fats which make this snack more satisfying.
- Toasted Almonds: Toasted almonds lend a deep, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate. They also add to the overall texture of the balls.
- Cashews: Cashews have a creamy texture when blended, contributing to the rich, delicious feel of these bites.
- Sea Salt: A pinch of sea salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances out the sweetness of the dates and coconut.
- Vanilla Extract: This adds a subtle hint of vanilla flavor that compliments the chocolate. It also enhances the overall aroma of the dessert.
- Unsweetened Coconut Flakes: They add a tropical twist to the chocolate bites and give them a lovely chewy texture. We’ll also use them to roll these bites for a delicious touch and beautiful look!
- Cacao Powder: This is what gives the balls their chocolatey flavor. Cacao powder is also packed with antioxidants, making this treat even healthier.
- Melted Extra Virgin Coconut Oil: This acts as a binder, helping all the ingredients stick together while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
How to Make Chocolate Coconut Balls (Step-by-Step)
Making these incredible chocolate coconut balls is easier than you think. Here's how to make them at home step by step:
Step 1: Preparing the Nut Mixture
Start by taking dates, walnuts, almonds, and cashews. Make sure that they are all organic for a healthier option. Place all these ingredients into a food processor and process until they are well blended.
Once that is done, turn off the processor. Using a silicone or wooden spatula - which is the best option to avoid scratching your processor - scrape down the mixture from the sides of the food processor and pulse it again.
This step is important to guarantee that all the ingredients are evenly processed. Repeat this process as needed until everything is well mixed.
Step 2: Adding Flavor
Next, sprinkle some sea salt into the mixture for a hint of savory flavor, and add pure vanilla extract for a sweet, aromatic touch. Process this mixture well for another minute or so.
Step 3: Adding Chocolate and Coconut
Now it is time to add the organic unsweetened coconut flakes, and organic cacao powder. The cacao powder might not be pictured here, but it is a crucial ingredient for that rich, chocolatey taste. Process all these ingredients until they are well combined.
While the food processor is still running, add melted coconut oil. This will help bind everything together and give your balls a smooth texture.
Step 4: Shaping the Balls
With the mixture ready, use an ice cream scoop (about a tablespoon in size) to scoop out portions of the mixture. Squeeze each scoop in your hands and then shape it into a ball. This might get a little messy, but that's part of the fun!
Step 5: The Final Touch
To finish, coat each ball with a layer of coconut flakes for an extra crunch. Place the completed balls onto a plate and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes. The refrigeration will help the balls firm up, making them easier to handle.
After they've firmed up, transfer them into a storage container and cover it with a lid.
Your delicious Chocolate Coconut Balls are ready to serve!
Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Coconut Balls Ever
Blend the ingredients thoroughly: The key to getting the perfect texture for your chocolate coconut balls is to blend all the ingredients well in a food processor. Make sure the dates, walnuts, almonds, and cashews are well combined before moving on to the next step.
Scrape the sides of the processor: Don't forget to pause and scrape down the sides of your food processor during the blending process. This guarantees that all ingredients are evenly processed and no chunks are left.
Add coconut oil while processing: Make sure to add the melted coconut oil while the food processor is still running. This helps to blend all the ingredients well and gives your chocolate balls a smooth texture.
Coat the balls properly: Coating the balls with coconut flakes not only adds flavor but also provides an appealing look. Make sure to coat them thoroughly for the best flavor.
Refrigerate before storing: After shaping and coating your chocolate coconut balls, refrigerate them for at least half an hour before transferring them into a storage container. This helps them to firm up and hold their shape better.
Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Coconut Balls
- Start your day on a sweet note by pairing these chocolate coconut balls with a hot cup of coffee. The bitterness of the coffee perfectly compliments the sweet and nutty flavors of the balls.
- Hosting a dinner party? Offer these chocolate coconut balls as an after-dinner treat. They pair wonderfully with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of herbal tea.
- If you're in the mood for a delicious dessert, serve these chocolate coconut balls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream enhances the rich flavors of the chocolate and coconut.
- These chocolate coconut balls are perfect for a picnic or potluck. They're easy to transport and make for a delicious, crowd-pleasing snack.
- Looking for a quick energy boost during a busy day? Grab a couple of these chocolate coconut balls on the go. They're packed with nutritious nuts and will keep you feeling satisfied.
Recipe Variation Ideas for Chocolate Coconut Balls
This delicious chocolate coconut balls recipe is absolutely perfect as is, but if you're looking to change things up, here are a few variation ideas you can try:
Dark Chocolate Delight: For dark chocolate fans, this is a must-try. Substitute the natural cacao powder with dark cocoa powder. The result will be a rich, intense chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the dates and coconut.
Make it Fruity: For a fruity twist, add a half cup of dried cranberries or cherries to the mix. The tartness of the fruit will compliment the sweetness of the dates and chocolate, adding a whole new dimension of flavor to your chocolate coconut bites.
Salted Caramel Twist: If you love the combination of sweet and salty, try adding a drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce over your chocolate coconut balls before rolling them in the coconut flakes. The salty-sweet caramel will elevate these treats to a whole new level.
Frequently Asked Questions
For this chocolate coconut ball recipe, it is recommended to use large, pitted dates. These can be found in many grocery stores, but the ones from Costco are especially good for this recipe.
Yes, you can substitute the walnuts, almonds, and cashews with other nuts of your choice. However, keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary.
If you don't have a food processor, you can use a high-speed blender. Just make sure to blend the ingredients in stages and scrape down the sides as needed.
Absolutely! These chocolate coconut balls are not only a healthy snack but they also make a delicious, guilt-free dessert. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee.
Yes, these chocolate coconut balls are both vegan and gluten-free. They are naturally sweetened, loaded with nuts and enriched with natural cacao, making them a healthy treat for everyone.
How to Store Leftover Chocolate Coconut Balls
The easiest way to store your leftover chocolate coconut bites is in the fridge. Simply place them in an airtight container, and they should stay fresh for about a week.
Remember to separate them with a piece of parchment paper if you're stacking them to prevent them from sticking together.
If you want to store your chocolate coconut balls for a longer period, you can freeze them. Again, use an airtight container and place a piece of parchment paper between each layer to avoid sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen chocolate coconut balls, simply take them out of the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. If you're in a hurry, you can leave them out at room temperature for a few hours.
Video Tutorial to Make Chocolate Coconut Balls
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Printable Card
Vegan & Gluten-Free Chocolate Coconut Bites (Video)
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Coconut Bites
- 12 large – pitted Dates (I purchase at Costco)
- ½ cup – organic walnuts
- ½ cup – organic toasted almonds
- ½ cup – organic cashes
- ¼ tsp. – sea salt
- ½ tsp. – pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup – organic unsweetened coconut flakes
- ½ cup – natural cacao powder (or cocoa powder)
- ½ cup – melted extra virgin coconut oil
- 1 cup - organic unsweetened coconut flakes (for rolling the bites)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Nut Mixture
- Start by taking dates, walnuts, almonds, and cashews. Make sure that they are all organic for a healthier option. Place all these ingredients into a food processor and process until they are well blended.
- Once that is done, turn off the processor. Using a silicone or wooden spatula - which is the best option to avoid scratching your processor - scrape down the mixture from the sides of the food processor and pulse it again.
- This step is important to guarantee that all the ingredients are evenly processed. Repeat this process as needed until everything is well mixed.
Step 2: Adding Flavor
- Next, sprinkle some sea salt into the mixture for a hint of savory flavor, and add pure vanilla extract for a sweet, aromatic touch. Process this mixture well for another minute or so.
Step 3: Adding Chocolate and Coconut
- Now it is time to add the organic unsweetened coconut flakes, and organic cacao powder. The cacao powder might not be pictured here, but it is a crucial ingredient for that rich, chocolatey taste. Process all these ingredients until they are well combined.
- While the food processor is still running, add melted coconut oil. This will help bind everything together and give your balls a smooth texture.
Step 4: Shaping the Balls
- With the mixture ready, use an ice cream scoop (about a tablespoon in size) to scoop out portions of the mixture. Squeeze each scoop in your hands and then shape it into a ball. This might get a little messy, but that's part of the fun!
Step 5: The Final Touch
- To finish, coat each ball with a layer of coconut flakes for an extra crunch. Place the completed balls onto a plate and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes. The refrigeration will help the balls firm up, making them easier to handle.
- After they've firmed up, transfer them into a storage container and cover it with a lid.
- Your delicious Chocolate Coconut Balls are ready to serve!
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Leslie Stuart says
I love these chocolate coconut bites. This dessert looks delicious. I will try making these at home.
Valya of The Farm Girl Blog says
I can't agree more! They're absolutely amazing! Thank you for the kind words, and enjoy the bites! 😉