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Retro Christmas Chocolate Coconut Pecan Balls Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 134 reviews
  • Author: lilan
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 30 balls 1x

Description

This vintage-inspired Christmas dessert features creamy coconut and pecan balls covered in smooth chocolate. Combining powdered sugar, melted butter, sweetened condensed milk, coconut flakes, and chopped pecans, these bite-sized treats are chilled and then dipped in melted chocolate wafers for a festive, nostalgic holiday treat. Optional toppings like additional pecans, coconut flakes, or sprinkles add a personalized touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 2 cups (227g) powdered sugar
  • 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 7 ounces (1/2 can) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup coconut flakes (sweetened or unsweetened)
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Coating

  • 2 1/2 cups chocolate-flavored melting wafers (milk chocolate or dark chocolate)

Optional Toppings

  • Chopped pecans
  • Coconut flakes
  • Sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Make the dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Gently fold in the coconut flakes and chopped pecans with a spatula. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
  2. Make the balls: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a small cookie scoop or teaspoon, scoop portions of the chilled mixture and roll each portion gently in your hands to form balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet. If the mixture becomes too warm, refrigerate it again until firm. Once all balls are rolled, chill them uncovered in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set.
  3. Coat the balls: Divide the chocolate melting wafers evenly into two microwave-safe bowls. Follow the instructions on the wafers package to melt the chocolate. Remove the chilled balls from the refrigerator. Insert a toothpick into the center of a ball and dip it into the melted chocolate, spooning chocolate over any uncovered spots. Place the coated ball back on the parchment paper. Use a second toothpick to gently loosen balls if needed. Repeat for each ball, melting the second batch of wafers as you go.
  4. Add toppings: Immediately after dipping each ball, swirl a little extra melted chocolate on top to cover the toothpick hole. While the chocolate coating is still wet, sprinkle your choice of chopped pecans, coconut flakes, or sprinkles over each ball to decorate. Allow the chocolates to harden at room temperature or refrigerate briefly before serving.

Notes

  • Use sweetened or unsweetened coconut flakes based on your taste preference.
  • Chill the dough and balls thoroughly to make them easier to shape and coat.
  • Work in small batches when melting the chocolate to prevent it from hardening before dipping.
  • Keep extra toppings ready to apply immediately after dipping for the best adherence.
  • Store finished chocolate balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and shape.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Christmas dessert, coconut pecan balls, chocolate-coated treats, holiday sweets, retro dessert

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Find it online: https://cooklilan.com/retro-christmas-chocolate-coconut-pecan-balls-recipe/