Valentines Treats Chocolate Coconut Balls

Name: Valentines Treats Chocolate Coconut Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 20 balls
Ingredients: 1 cup of shredded coconut; 1 cup of chocolate chips; 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 cup of crushed nuts (optional); 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Golden Food

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Coconut Balls for Valentine’s Day! Each bite combines rich chocolate and the delightful crunch of coconut, making them the perfect sweet treat to share with loved ones. They’re surprisingly simple to prepare, and I enjoy getting creative with different toppings. Whether you're planning a celebration or just want to indulge yourself, these little delights are sure to impress. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, allowing for a stress-free treat option on the special day.

Created by

Elin Matthews

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:25:34.899Z

When I first tried making these chocolate coconut balls, I knew I was onto something special. The blend of flavors combined with the texture has made them one of my go-to recipes for Valentine’s Day. I experimented with coating them in various toppings like crushed nuts and sprinkles, leading to an impressive range of presentation.

One tip I've learned is to chill the balls before coating them in chocolate; this helps maintain their shape and gives that satisfying snap when you bite into one! Every time I serve these, there’s always a cheerful response from family and friends, making them even more special.

Why You'll Love These Treats
Decadent chocolate flavor paired with the tropical taste of coconut
Easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones
Customizable with different toppings for a personal touch

Mastering the Chocolate Coating

The key to a smooth chocolate coating lies in the melting process. When melting chocolate chips, use low heat and stir continuously to prevent burning. I recommend using a double boiler if available, as it distributes the heat more evenly. When properly melted, the chocolate should be glossy and fluid, making it easy to dip each ball. Allowing the chocolate to cool slightly helps it adhere better to the coconut balls, creating a perfect shell that sets beautifully.

If you're short on time, a microwave can work for melting chocolate, but do it in short bursts of about 20 seconds, stirring in between. Keep an eye on the chocolate to avoid overheating. Overheated chocolate may seize and become unusable, but if this happens, try adding a small amount of coconut oil to salvage it. The oil will help restore the smooth texture needed for coating.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

While the base flavor of chocolate and coconut is delightful on its own, you can elevate these treats by integrating spices or extracts. For instance, adding a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of almond extract to the coconut mixture introduces warm undertones that complement the chocolate nicely. Play around with different flavored chocolate chips—dark, milk, or even white chocolate can give you varied textures and tastes that cater to different preferences.

If you're looking to cater to dietary restrictions, consider using dairy-free chocolate chips or a sugar-free sweetened condensed milk alternative. I’ve found that nut butters can be a wonderful addition to the filling for added richness and flavor. You could swirl in a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter, but you'll need to balance the moisture content, so reduce the condensed milk slightly to maintain the right consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started on your Chocolate Coconut Balls!

Ingredients

1 cup of shredded coconut
1 cup of chocolate chips
1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup of crushed nuts (optional)
1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a delightful treat!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Chocolate Coconut Balls.

Melt the Chocolate

In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate chips over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Shape the Balls

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Chill the Balls

Refrigerate the balls for about 15 minutes to firm them up.

Coat in Chocolate

Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, using forks to coat them evenly. Then, return them to the parchment paper.

Add Toppings

If desired, sprinkle crushed nuts or additional coconut on top of the chocolate before it sets.

Set and Serve

Let the chocolate set in the refrigerator before serving. Enjoy your delicious Valentine’s treat!

Enjoy the process and don’t forget to taste the deliciousness along the way!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a hint of almond extract to the mixture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Coconut Balls are a fantastic make-ahead treat. Once shaped and chilled, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer, and you can enjoy them straight from the freezer for a cool treat on warm days.

When you’re ready to serve them, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps maintain their texture. If any chocolate has melted during freezing, just give them a quick dip in melted chocolate again for a fresh coating before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Coconut Balls make a lovely centerpiece for any Valentine's Day dessert table. I like to arrange them in heart-shaped boxes or on a decorative platter garnished with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color. You could even dust them with a little extra coconut or cocoa powder right before serving for an elegant touch.

For an interactive experience, consider serving them alongside a dipping station. Provide additional toppings like sprinkles, cocoa powder, or crushed nuts, letting your loved ones customize their own treats. This hands-on approach makes the dessert more fun and engaging for everyone. Plus, it adds an element of creativity that can be a conversation starter among guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unsweetened coconut?

Yes, unsweetened coconut can be used, but you may want to adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly.

→ How long do the chocolate coconut balls last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these treats?

Absolutely! Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container to maintain their freshness.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can use crushed cookies, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of white chocolate for a fun twist!