No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Balls

No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Graham Balls, affectionately called "Moose Farts" in Newfoundland, deliver a bite-sized, nostalgic treat packed with chocolate, coconut, and graham cracker goodness. This no-bake recipe comes together with only 25 minutes of prep plus chilling, making it the perfect answer for anyone searching for quick, oven free desserts. With their sweet flavor, chewy texture, and Canadian roots, these chocolate coconut balls are an easy choice for celebrations or midweek cravings alike.

When I first made these No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Graham Balls for a Canadian themed dinner party, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared. The playful name "Moose Farts" always sparks laughter, but their combination of chocolate, sweet coconut, and graham crackers makes them a truly craveable treat. Ever since, family and friends have requested them for nearly every occasion, from potlucks to holiday gift trays.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Chocolate chips (1 1/2 cups, 255g): Semi sweet delivers the best balance of flavor, while milk chocolate chips make a sweeter ball. Use dark chocolate for less sugar or mini chips for more even distribution.
• Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 300ml): The key binder for rich, fudgy texture. Choose high quality brands for smooth consistency. Coconut condensed milk works for dairy free diets.
• Dried coconut (1 1/2 cups, 120g): Unsweetened or sweetened both work. Toasted coconut gives extra depth. Avoid very fine shreds for best texture.
• Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups, 180g): Finely crush for thorough binding. Gluten free graham crackers substitute seamlessly if needed.
• Melted butter (1/4 cup, 57g): Adds richness and structure. Use real butter for best flavor; coconut oil is an option for dairy free versions.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon, 5ml): Enhances chocolate flavor and rounds out sweetness. Pure extract gives best results.
• Extra graham crumbs for rolling (1/2 cup, 60g): This finishing layer adds signature Moose Farts texture and helps prevent sticking.

How to Make No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Graham Balls

Combine Wet Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is perfectly smooth and glossy. Work until no visible streaks of butter remain for best incorporation and rich flavor throughout the dough.

Add Dry Ingredients:

Stir in the graham cracker crumbs, dried coconut, and chocolate chips. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed and no dry spots remain, creating a thick, sticky, heavy batter. This ensures each ball gets an even balance of texture and taste.

Chill the Mixture:

Refrigerate the dough for 1 hour or place in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes. Chilling makes the mixture firm enough for rolling without it sticking excessively to your hands, which is essential for forming neat, round balls.

Form the Balls:

Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion out dough, then quickly roll between your hands into 1 inch diameter balls. Work in batches so the mixture remains firm and easy to handle without softening too much at room temperature.

Roll in Graham Crumbs:

Pour the extra graham cracker crumbs onto a shallow plate and roll each ball to coat fully. Gently press to help the crumbs adhere, creating the classic Moose Fart look and a delicious bite.

Final Chilling:

Return coated balls to the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour until fully set. Proper chilling is key for the best texture and helps the flavors meld perfectly before serving.

Growing up, my grandmother would craft these treats each Christmas, bringing joy and laughter to the table when she announced the name. Discovering that something so silly sounding could taste so rich and comforting made them a family staple that I now share with my own kids. Each year, we find even more reasons to enjoy Moose Farts, from birthday parties to school bake sales.

Smart Swaps and Variations

This adaptable No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Graham Ball recipe welcomes creative twists to suit taste and diet. Swap half the chocolate chips for butterscotch or peanut butter chips for a new flavor blend, or try adding a handful of chopped nuts for texture. Chocolate graham crackers create a mocha twist, while rolling the finished treats in cocoa powder lends a trufflelike flair. For dairy free versions, simply use coconut condensed milk and coconut oil in place of butter for a perfectly creamy result.

How to Store and Reheat Moose Farts

Store finished chocolate coconut graham balls in a single layer or with parchment between layers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For longer term storage, freeze the balls in a freezer safe container for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge for about 2 hours before serving. No reheating is required, but for best texture, leave them at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before enjoying. Keep away from direct heat or sunlight to maintain their shape and texture on dessert trays.

What to Serve with Chocolate Coconut Graham Balls

No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Graham Balls complement a wide range of sweet snacks and drinks. Set them on holiday cookie trays alongside spiced shortbread, or serve with rich coffee or tea for an afternoon pick me up. For casual parties, add them to dessert boards with fruit and nuts, or offer with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast. Kids love them with a glass of milk, while adults can pair them with after dinner espresso or hot chocolate in winter for a truly comforting treat.

Nutritional Benefits

While indulgent, Chocolate Coconut Graham Balls do offer some wholesome advantages over processed candies. Coconut provides dietary fiber and healthy fats, while using dark chocolate chips boosts antioxidants and reduces sugar. Individual portions help with mindful eating, and using quality ingredients means they're free from artificial preservatives. With gluten free graham crackers, these treats are easy to share with those who have dietary sensitivities, bringing everyone to the table.

Recipe Success Tips

If your mixture feels too sticky to roll, gradually add more graham cracker crumbs to soak up excess moisture. If balls are too soft, chill longer until they firm; if cracking or dry, mix in a bit more melted butter. For a uniform look, roll a second time after the initial shaping and use a cookie scoop for sizing. Coating balls while still slightly tacky helps crumbs adhere, ensuring an attractive and flavorful surface every time.

Creating these No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Graham Balls is a joyful way to celebrate tradition with effortless prep and big flavor. Start your own Moose Farts tradition at home and enjoy sharing a laugh and a delicious treat with those you love.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes, you can use milk, dark, or even white chocolate chips to adjust the sweetness and flavor profile of the balls to your preference.

→ How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands while rolling?

Chilling the mixture before rolling helps minimize stickiness. You can also lightly coat your hands with butter or oil for easier handling.

→ What's the best method for storing these treats?

Store finished balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This keeps them firm and maintains freshness.

→ Can these be made ahead for parties?

Absolutely! They're perfect for make-ahead occasions—simply prep the night before, store in the fridge, and serve when ready.

→ Can I substitute the graham cracker crumbs?

Yes, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer crumbs if graham crackers aren't available.