These No Bake Coconut Cookie Balls with Chocolate Centersare a quick, wholesome treat with a luscious surprise inside. Each bite offers the sweet, nutty flavor of coconut combined with a rich, melty chocolate center. Whether I want a healthier snack, a guilt-free dessert, or something easy to bring to a gathering, these little delights always come through.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 ½ cups unsweetened shredded coconut
½ cup almond flour
¼ cup maple syrup or honey
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
Directions
I mix the shredded coconut, almond flour, maple syrup or honey, melted coconut oil, vanilla, and salt in a large bowl until everything is evenly combined.
Then I roll the mixture into small, 1-inch balls.
I press a small indentation in the center of each ball using my finger or the back of a spoon.
Into each center, I place a chocolate chip or a small piece of chopped chocolate.
After that, I roll the ball again gently to seal the chocolate inside.
I place all the cookie balls on a tray lined with parchment paper.
Then I chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so they firm up nicely.
I serve them either chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Calories per serving: 140 kcal
Variations
I sometimes use dark chocolate chunks or even a square of filled chocolate in the center for extra flavor.
When I want a nuttier taste, I add finely chopped almonds or pecans to the dough.
If I'm craving more sweetness, I sprinkle a little coconut sugar on top before chilling.
I swap maple syrup for agave or brown rice syrup when I want to switch up the sweetener.
To make them even more decadent, I dip the finished balls in melted chocolate and let them harden in the fridge.
Storage/Reheating
I store these cookie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well—just thaw them in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before eating. There's no reheating needed since they're best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
How can I make these cookie balls nut-free?
I replace almond flour with oat flour or sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option that still holds the mixture together.
Can I use sweetened shredded coconut?
Yes, but I usually reduce or skip the maple syrup or honey to avoid making the cookie balls too sweet.
Are these cookie balls vegan?
Yes, if I use maple syrup and vegan chocolate, the whole recipe is 100% vegan-friendly.
Can I make these ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely. I often make them a day in advance and store them in the fridge—they hold up perfectly.
Can kids help with this recipe?
Definitely. Since there’s no baking involved, it’s a fun and safe way for kids to help in the kitchen by rolling balls and placing the chocolate centers.
Conclusion
These no-bake coconut cookie balls with chocolate centers are my go-to when I want something fast, sweet, and satisfying. The blend of coconut and chocolate always hits the spot, and I love how easy they are to customize. Whether I'm prepping for a party or just treating myself, these little bites never disappoint.
Recipe:

No Bake Coconut Cookie Balls with Chocolate Centers
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These no-bake coconut cookie balls are a quick, wholesome treat with a luscious chocolate surprise inside. Naturally sweetened and gluten-free, they're perfect as a healthier snack or dessert.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups unsweetened shredded coconut
½ cup almond flour
¼ cup maple syrup or honey
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix shredded coconut, almond flour, maple syrup or honey, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small 1-inch balls.
- Press a small indentation into each ball with your finger or the back of a spoon.
- Place a chocolate chip or small piece of chocolate in the center of each ball.
- Roll the ball again gently to seal the chocolate inside.
- Place the cookie balls on a tray lined with parchment paper.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Use oat or sunflower seed flour for a nut-free version.
To make vegan, use maple syrup and vegan chocolate.
Dip in melted chocolate for an extra decadent version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg