Description
Festive Christmas Coconut Snowballs
These no-bake coconut snowballs are the perfect holiday treat—colorful, chewy, and topped with shredded coconut for a snowy, festive look!
Ingredients
2 cups sweetened shredded coconut (plus extra for coating)
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
Red and green food coloring
1/2 cup powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Directions
Make the base mixture:
In a bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and shredded coconut until well combined.
Color the mixture:
Divide the mixture evenly into two bowls. Add red food coloring to one bowl and green food coloring to the other. Mix until the colors are evenly distributed.
Form the snowballs:
Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands. If sticky, lightly coat your hands with powdered sugar.
Coat with coconut:
Roll each ball in the extra shredded coconut until fully covered for that snowy effect.
Chill and serve:
Place the snowballs on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 24 snowballs
Calories: 80 kcal per snowball
Perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or as a sweet treat to enjoy with family.
Pair with hot cocoa for a cozy festive vibe!
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect snowballs every time. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing. In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the 2 cups of shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk with a rubber spatula. Stir in the vanilla extract until the mixture is uniform. For coloring, gel food coloring is recommended over liquid for more vibrant hues without altering consistency. Add coloring a few drops at a time, mixing completely before adding more to achieve your desired festive shade. When rolling, if the mixture is too sticky, chilling it for 10 minutes can help. Roll balls firmly to ensure they hold their shape.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange these snowballs on a tiered dessert stand for a beautiful holiday display. For gifting, place them in small cellophane bags tied with a ribbon, or in a festive tin. They pair wonderfully with a cup of hot chocolate, coffee, or a glass of cold milk. To elevate them for a party, consider drizzling with white chocolate and a sprinkle of edible glitter.
How-to Summary
In summary, create these treats by mixing coconut, condensed milk, and vanilla. Divide and color the dough red and green. Roll into 1-inch balls, then coat in extra shredded coconut. Finally, chill for 30 minutes to set before serving or gifting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but the snowballs will be less sweet and may have a drier texture. You may want to add a touch more condensed milk if the mixture doesn’t hold together.
How long do they last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, they will keep well for up to 5 days. The coconut coating may soften slightly but they will still be delicious.
Can I freeze coconut snowballs?
Absolutely! Freeze them on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
My mixture is too wet to roll. What can I do?
This usually means the condensed milk ratio is high. Add more shredded coconut, a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture is moldable. Chilling it briefly will also help.
Are there any nut-free alternatives for texture?
While coconut is central to the recipe, for a different texture you could roll the set balls in crushed pretzels, sprinkles, or colored sugar for a crunchy coating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using liquid food coloring excessively: This can make the mixture too wet. Opt for gel or paste colors.
- Not chilling before serving: Skipping the chill step results in balls that are too soft and may fall apart.
- Rolling balls too large: Larger balls are harder to coat evenly and can be overly sweet. Aim for 1-inch diameter.
- Storing at room temperature: These contain dairy and should be refrigerated to maintain freshness and food safety.
Conclusion
These Festive Christmas Coconut Snowballs are a quintessential no-bake holiday treat. Their simple preparation, cheerful appearance, and delightful chewy texture make them a hit for all ages. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, as a homemade gift, or a fun family activity, this recipe is sure to spread seasonal joy. Enjoy the process of making them and the sweet taste of holiday tradition.