These Nutella Coconut Almond Balls are a delicious no-bake treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With a creamy Nutella filling, crunchy almonds, and a chocolate-coated coconut exterior, these bite-sized delights are simple to make and irresistible. Great for parties, gifts, or an indulgent snack!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients (Makes ~20 Balls)
- 160 g (5.64 oz) shredded coconut
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 300 ml (10.14 fl oz) milk
- 50 g (1.76 oz) peanuts, chopped
- 160 g (5.64 oz) chocolate (milk or dark)
- 20 ml (0.67 fl oz) vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons Nutella
- 20 whole almonds, peeled
Directions
1. Prepare the Coconut Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine shredded coconut, sugar, and milk.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and cook until the liquid evaporates, stirring frequently.
- Once the mixture thickens, remove from heat and allow it to cool.
2. Prepare the Almonds:
- While the coconut mixture cools, blanch the almonds in boiling water for 2–3 minutes.
- Drain, peel off the skins, and set aside to cool.
3. Form the Balls:
- Add 2 tablespoons of Nutella to the cooled coconut mixture and mix well.
- Take small portions of the mixture, place an almond in the center, and roll into balls of your desired size.
- Place the formed balls on a tray and freeze for 10 minutes to firm up.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
- Melt the chocolate and vegetable oil together in a microwave or over a double boiler until smooth.
- Finely chop the peanuts and set them aside.
5. Coat the Balls:
- Remove the balls from the freezer. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the coated balls while the chocolate is still wet.
6. Chill and Serve:
- Place the coated balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate until the chocolate sets.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Arrange on a decorative platter for parties.
- Pack in gift boxes lined with parchment paper for a homemade present.
- Serve alongside coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
- Add to dessert buffets for a crowd-pleasing option.
Cooking Tips
- Use room-temperature ingredients for easier mixing.
- Ensure the coconut mixture is cooled completely before adding Nutella to maintain the texture.
- Roll the balls with lightly greased hands to prevent sticking.
- For extra flavor, toast the coconut lightly before cooking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Almonds are a good source of healthy fats and vitamin E.
- Coconut provides dietary fiber and natural sweetness.
- A homemade alternative to store-bought sweets with fewer preservatives.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free chocolate.
Nutritional Facts (Per Ball)
- Calories: ~120
- Protein: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 6 g
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy, no-bake preparation makes it accessible for all skill levels.
- A perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey textures.
- Great for festive occasions, gifts, or satisfying a quick craving.
- Customizable with your favorite nuts or coatings.
Conclusion
These Nutella Coconut Almond Balls are a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them an indulgent treat for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, a thoughtful gift, or just for yourself, these no-bake delights are sure to impress. Whip up a batch today and savor the joy of homemade sweets!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use sweetened shredded coconut?
Yes, but reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe to avoid excessive sweetness. - What can I substitute for almonds?
Use hazelnuts, cashews, or even dried fruit as a filling. - Can I skip the peanuts in the coating?
Yes, you can use sprinkles, crushed cookies, or leave the coating plain. - Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a richer flavor and pairs well with the sweetness of the coconut. - How do I prevent the balls from falling apart while coating?
Ensure they are firm by chilling them adequately before dipping in chocolate. - Can I use a different filling instead of Nutella?
Yes, peanut butter, almond butter, or even caramel can be used as alternatives. - What type of milk works best?
Whole milk is ideal for a creamy texture, but plant-based milk can be used for a dairy-free version. - Can I toast the nuts before adding them?
Yes, toasting enhances the flavor and adds an extra crunch. - How can I make these vegan?
Use vegan chocolate, plant-based milk, and a Nutella alternative like hazelnut spread without dairy. - How do I store these balls for gifting?
Place them in paper liners inside a gift box and store them in the refrigerator until ready to present.