Coconut Cream Balls are bite-sized, no-bake treats that combine a creamy coconut filling with a rich chocolate coating. They’re quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for parties, holiday trays, or just an indulgent snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking required—easy and mess-free
- Creamy, sweet coconut centers with a chocolate shell
- Perfect make-ahead dessert or gift
- Easy to customize with different coatings and add-ins
- Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cream cheese, softened
- Butter, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Shredded coconut
- Vanilla extract
- Semi-sweet, dark, or white chocolate chips (for coating)
- Optional: coconut oil or shortening, chopped nuts, sprinkles
Directions

- Make the filling:
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then fold in the shredded coconut. - Chill:
Refrigerate the mixture for about 1 hour or until firm enough to handle. - Shape:
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a lined tray. Chill for another 30–45 minutes. - Melt chocolate:
Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler. Stir in a little coconut oil or shortening for a smoother coating if desired. - Coat:
Dip each chilled coconut ball into the melted chocolate. Let excess drip off and place back on the tray. - Set:
Refrigerate the coated balls until the chocolate is fully set.
Servings and timing
- Makes: About 20–25 balls
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 1.5–2 hours total
- Total time: Around 2 hours
Variations
- Use white or dark chocolate for different flavors
- Add chopped almonds or pecans to the filling
- Roll in shredded coconut, sprinkles, or cocoa powder
- Make vegan with dairy-free cream cheese and chocolate
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week
- Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving
- No reheating needed—best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature
FAQs
Can I skip the chocolate coating?
Yes, they’re still delicious plain or rolled in coconut.
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but you may want to adjust sweetness with extra powdered sugar.
Do they freeze well?
Yes, freeze in a single layer then transfer to a container.
What size should I make them?
About 1 inch is ideal for bite-sized treats.
Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead?
Yes, but reduce or eliminate the butter and powdered sugar to balance texture and sweetness.
How can I make these vegan?
Use plant-based cream cheese, butter, and chocolate chips.
Will they hold up at room temperature?
For a couple of hours, yes—but they’re best stored chilled.
Can I flavor the filling?
Add almond or coconut extract for a twist, or a bit of lemon zest for brightness.
What’s the texture like?
Creamy and soft inside, with a firm chocolate shell outside.
Can I use coconut cream instead of cream cheese?
You can, though the texture will be softer—adjust by adding more coconut or chilling longer.
Conclusion
Coconut Cream Balls are the perfect treat when you need something easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, a party, or just because, these sweet coconut bites deliver rich flavor and indulgent texture with minimal effort. Give them a try—you’ll love every bite.
PrintCoconut Cream Balls
Soft, tropical coconut cream balls filled with smooth coconut custard and coated in shredded coconut—light, indulgent bite‑size treats.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 12–14 balls 1x
- Category: Dessert/Snack
- Method: Stovetop & no-bake
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 ml) coconut milk
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, plus extra for rolling
- Optional: pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, whisk coconut milk, sugar, butter, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens into a smooth custard, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and 1 cup shredded coconut until combined.
- Let the mixture cool slightly, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm enough to handle.
- With damp hands, roll scooped custard into 1‑inch balls.
- Roll each ball in extra shredded coconut to coat evenly.
- Place balls on a tray and chill for another 30 minutes to set.
- Serve chilled. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Use full-fat coconut milk for richer flavor and texture.
- For variation, press a toasted almond or macadamia nut into the center of each ball.
- Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
- Can roll in finely chopped pistachios or cocoa powder instead of coconut.
- Freeze for longer storage; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg