Festive Christmas Coconut Balls with Chocolate Coating

These Festive Christmas Coconut Balls are a delightful holiday treat that combines the creamy sweetness of coconut with a rich chocolate coating. With vibrant red and green M&Ms for a touch of holiday cheer, these no-bake treats are as easy to make as they are delicious. Perfect for holiday parties, gift boxes, or a cozy winter treat, these coconut balls are sure to bring a bit of Christmas spirit to your dessert table!

Ingredients

For the Coconut Balls:

• 2 cups unsweetened desiccated coconut (about 4 ounces)
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 5 tablespoons coconut oil, solid (about 1/3 cup)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup red and green M&Ms, plus extra for decoration

For the Chocolate Coating & Topping:

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted

Instructions

1. Prepare the Coconut Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the desiccated coconut, sweetened condensed milk, solid coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
   • Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture starts to come together.
   • Add the red and green M&Ms and fold them gently into the coconut mixture, spreading them evenly throughout.
2. Form the Coconut Balls:
   • Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, scoop out portions of the coconut mixture and roll them into balls.
   • The mixture may be slightly sticky, so dampening your hands can help with rolling.
   • Place each formed coconut ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Once all the balls are formed, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes to firm up.
3. Melt the Chocolate:
   • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil.
   • Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
4. Coat the Coconut Balls:
   • Remove the coconut balls from the refrigerator.
   • Using a fork or a toothpick, dip each coconut ball into the melted chocolate, coating it evenly.
   • Carefully tap off any excess chocolate before returning the coated coconut ball to the parchment-lined baking tray.
   • Once all the coconut balls are coated, return them to the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to allow the chocolate coating to set.
5. Decorate with White Chocolate and M&Ms:
   • Melt the white chocolate chips in a separate microwave-safe bowl, following the same method as before, in 20-second intervals until smooth.
   • Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the chocolate-coated coconut balls for a festive touch.
   • While the white chocolate is still wet, press a red or green M&M on top of each ball for extra color and holiday cheer.
6. Chill and Serve:
   • Place the decorated coconut balls in the refrigerator for another 10-15 minutes to set completely.
   • Once the chocolate is firm, transfer the coconut balls to a serving dish, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Conclusion

These Festive Christmas Coconut Balls are a joyful blend of creamy coconut, rich chocolate, and colorful holiday charm. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and the satisfying crunch of M&Ms, these treats will be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Quick and easy to prepare, they’re perfect for spreading a little Christmas magic at your next holiday gathering or for sharing as homemade gifts. Enjoy these delightful bites of holiday cheer!