Canadian No-Bake Moose Farts Balls

This hearty Canadian No-Bake Moose Farts Cookie Balls recipe has been a playful family favorite for years. These charming treats combine the perfect blend of sweetness and texture, requiring no oven time while delivering maximum flavor in each bite.

I first discovered these at a Canadian friend's holiday gathering and couldn't stop laughing at the name while reaching for my third cookie ball. Now they've become our go to dessert whenever we need something sweet that won't heat up the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Sweetened condensed milk: gives these cookies their signature richness and helps bind everything together
• Melted butter: adds a smooth texture and depth of flavor
• Vanilla extract: enhances all the sweet notes without overwhelming
• Dried coconut: provides fantastic chew and texture that makes these treats special
• Graham cracker crumbs: create the cookie base and coating with a subtle honey sweetness
• Chocolate chips: deliver pockets of melty chocolate goodness throughout each bite

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine Wet Ingredients:

Pour the sweetened condensed milk into a large mixing bowl first to prevent sticking. Add the melted butter while still warm and vanilla extract. Stir with a wooden spoon until completely smooth and uniform. Take your time here as proper blending creates the perfect base.

Add Dry Ingredients:

Gradually incorporate the graham cracker crumbs first while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Follow with the dried coconut ensuring it gets evenly distributed. Finally fold in the chocolate chips using a gentle hand to maintain their shape. The mixture will be thick sticky and slightly challenging to stir.

Chill the Mixture:

Transfer the bowl to your refrigerator for a full hour. This critical step allows the fats to solidify making the mixture much easier to handle. Avoid shortcuts here as warm dough will be frustratingly sticky to work with.

Form Cookie Balls:

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop portion the chilled mixture and roll between your palms to create uniform 1¼ inch balls. Work quickly as the mixture will soften at room temperature. Slightly damp hands can help prevent sticking.

Coat with Graham Crumbs:

Place additional graham cracker crumbs in a shallow dish. Roll each formed ball in the crumbs until completely coated on all sides. Apply gentle pressure to ensure the coating adheres well.

Final Chill:

Arrange your coated balls on a parchment lined baking sheet with small spaces between each one. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until they firm up completely. This sets their shape and allows flavors to meld.

Store:

Once fully chilled transfer to an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper. Keep refrigerated for maximum freshness.

Save This

My favorite part about these Moose Farts is watching guests react to the name before taking their first bite. The look of delight that follows always confirms what I already know these humble little treats pack serious flavor despite their humorous name.

Storage and Shelf Life

These cookie balls will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to a week when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage freeze them in a single layer until solid then transfer to freezer bags where they'll maintain quality for up to three months. Let frozen Moose Farts thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. The texture remains nearly identical to fresh making them perfect for advance preparation.

Ingredient Substitutions

These cookie balls are remarkably adaptable to dietary needs and pantry limitations. For a nut addition try replacing ¼ cup of the graham crumbs with finely chopped pecans or walnuts. White chocolate chips make a delightful alternative to regular chocolate chips especially when paired with dried cranberries for a festive variation. Vegan bakers can substitute coconut condensed milk and plant based butter with excellent results though the chilling time may need to be extended slightly.

The Quirky Canadian Origin

Moose Farts originated in rural Canadian communities where humorous names for simple homemade treats were common particularly during long winter months. Similar to other playfully named desserts like Nanaimo Bars and Butter Tarts they represent the whimsical side of Canadian culinary traditions. The name itself is believed to have originated in northern Ontario logging communities where hearty treats with memorable names became part of the local food culture. Despite the unusual name these treats have become beloved fixtures at holiday gatherings and community potlucks across Canada.

Serving Suggestions

These sweet treats shine when served alongside a hot beverage. Pair them with a strong Canadian coffee for authentic flair or hot chocolate for a double chocolate experience. For an elegant dessert platter arrange Moose Farts alongside fresh berries and mint leaves. During holiday seasons place them in festive mini cupcake liners on tiered serving trays for an impressive display. Their small size makes them perfect additions to cookie exchanges or as gifts packaged in decorative tins.

Common Queries

→ Can I use unsweetened coconut instead?

Yes, unsweetened coconut can be used to reduce sweetness or balance the condensed milk, offering a subtler flavor.

→ How long should I chill the mixture before rolling?

Chill the mixture for at least one hour until it firms up, making it easier to shape into balls without sticking.

→ Is it necessary to roll the balls in extra graham cracker crumbs?

Rolling in extra crumbs adds a pleasant texture and finish, but you may skip this step if you prefer a softer bite.

→ How should these be stored for freshness?

Place finished balls in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to one week.

→ Can I substitute other chocolate varieties?

You can use semi-sweet, dark, or even white chocolate chips, depending on your flavor preference.