Healthy Coconut Candy Balls
They taste so good, you would never believe they are good for you – that might be my favorite thing about these coconut candy balls. My second favorite thing? They are no-bake, so it’s about as low-effort as making a dessert can get.They make for easy grab-and-go snacks, an excellent treat to gift to friends, or serve as desserts and very kid friendly. I’m a big fan of coconut and keeping a batch of these in my fridge has definitely helped keep the chocolate cravings at bay.If you are looking to upgrade your candy selection, coconut is a great ingredient to incorporate into your recipes. Not only is it naturally sweet, but it’s also a source of healthy fat, helps to keep your teeth and bones healthy, and can even keep you hydrated.These bad boys are so irresistible... it's impossible to stop at just one! Made from condensed milk,coconut and chocolate - they really should come with an addictive warning!They are the perfect treat if you love coconut like I do. I’m obsessed with coconuts, they are my favorite ingredient in desserts and healthy snacks.The world is going coconuts. Following the popularity of coconut water, a broad spectrum of foods derived from the humble coconut is available. It now comes in a variety of forms from water to milk, cream, butter, oil, flour and shredded allowing for a variety of creative ways to add coconut to a healthy diet. Coconut contains a unique type of medium chain saturated fat called lauric acid that research shows raises HDL or "good" cholesterol levels, which lowers overall heart disease risk. As a plant food, coconuts also contain disease-fighting phytochemicals or antioxidants. Research suggests that coconut products helps boost metabolism which is helpful if excess bodyfat needs to be lost. Just one scoop of coconut oil delivers a wide-range of healing properties. Produced in its most natural state, coconut oil will benefit you, your children and your pets. I put some into my dogs dinner regularly.Whether you have chronic fatigue, weight problems, digestive or skin issues, or just want to give your body a good cleanse and boost your energy, coconut in any of its forms is so good for you.People trying to reduce their sugar intake often complain about the lack of sweets in their quest to get healthier. That’s because a low-carb way of eating is very focused on eliminating harmful sugar from your diet. But there are options for that lingering sweet tooth in your life. Hence this healthy candy is both low-carb and packed with healthy fats and antioxidants. Eating more healthy fats is a great way to help satisfying your sweet cravings without the sugar. Not only is this candy insanely delicious and easy to prepare, it also comes with some surprising health benefits. From vitamins and minerals to plenty of healthy fats that support hormone health and neurotransmitter production, these little delights are the perfect addition to any healthy eating plan.These candies are - superrich, uber decadent - but secretly healthy and guilt-free! Yup, that means no butter, no white sugar andno sweetened condensed milk… just pure, fudgy, coconutty, chocolatey goodness.The big secret here is that you have the option to make your own homemade condensed milk in this recipe, free of the LOADS of sugar in store bought stuff. The facts are…manufacturers take out about 60% of the water from the milk to “condense” it down. After they “condense” the milk, they add about 40% sugar to fill the void from the water. I’m sure you’re asking yourself why the manufacturers do this. Well, the added sugar means the shelf life is longer, plus transporting the milk is easier due to not having to store it in cooler temperatures.Its always about the convenience to them, rather than people’s health. But when you take the time and effort to make your own condensed milk, especially if its from coconut cream to make this delightful candy, you get all the real, natural flavors - no artificial food flavorings here! Each little cube is like a piece of heaven.The recipe for the sugar free homemade condensed milk is below in notes. It really very easy to do and you can keep some in your fridge so its ready to add a dollop on EVERYTHING fora super healthy treat.It will be something you can enjoy regularly as part of a healthy eating plan. Its high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a form of beneficial fat that can increase energy levels and enhance brain function and many other health benefits. MCTs also help people lose weight by making them feel fuller longer and encouraging fat burning, they also have anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that can boost the immune system and promote healthy skin.This recipe is a simple and delicious way to incorporate the amazing health benefits of coconut into your lifestyle, as its bursting with nutrition and good stuff.
Servings 20
Ingredients
- 4 cups desiccated coconut
- 1 cup coconut condensed milk –store bought or sugar free recipe below in notes
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (only if using unsweetened condensed milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions
- If making your own sugar free condensed milk, make it first so its ready to go when you wish to make the coconut balls - recipe below in notes.Place the coconut and condensed milk into a large bowl and mix until well combined (it will be sticky).Roll mixture into tablespoon size balls around 1-inch diameter and place onto a baking tray. Makes around 20 or more depending on size.Place the tray into the freezer for at least an 1 hour to firm.
Chocolate Coating
- Place chocolate chips and coconut oil in small dish and microwave at 50% power with 30 second bursts stirring between each one until melted and smooth.Or use double boiler method - (pot of boiling water with a bowl resting on top) melt the chocolate chips and the coconut oil together.Using two small spoons, dip and coat each of the coconut balls into the melted chocolate mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.Place back onto the baking tray and drizzle with extra melted chocolate if desired.TIP: I like to drizzle a small amount of white chocolate over the top for contrast.Repeat with remaining balls.Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week or freezer for up to 3 months. Allow to defrost in the fridge before consuming.Note:Chilling the balls - if you don't chill and firm the balls before dipping them into the melted chocolate, they will be too soft and will fall apart. Don't skip this step!
Notes
Elevate your dessert game with my sugar free condensed milk recipe.
Avid bakers are all too familiar with sweetened condensed milk, but what about those of us who love to bake but need to cut out excess sugar?
There aren’t too many sugar-free varieties on the market, and the ones I’ve tried… miss the mark. So, I came up with a sugar-free version of classic condensed milk, and now I use it in everything!
There are some recipes that are just better with condensed milk (think fudge and ice cream!)
This is a super simple recipe that creates a delicious sugar free condensed milk, perfect for eating straight out the jar or in your favourite recipes!
Go here for the recipe: Sugar Free Homemade Condensed Coconut Milk
If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites
