Coconut Balls

Christmas is imminent and there’s no stopping it.  If you are searching for something quick, super easy to make and delicious addition to  your dessert table or gift basket ideas, here they are just in time for the holidays. Organic, low-fat, unsweetened, finely shredded coconut cooked in condensed milk, rolled in organic Chia seeds, Sesame seeds, and toasted coconut then formed into balls.  Yes, and they’re ready to be rolled in these three super foods in less than 10 minutes.

At first, I was thinking about making plain coconut balls, but I thought of adding something that would give these coconut balls a kick; something with health benefits other than ingesting empty calories.  There are many varieties such as tree nuts, but my children are allergic to them.  However, you can add them if you want.  You can also roll them in chocolate powder, cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, chopped candy cane, and festive sprinkles, which are great for birthdays and other special gatherings.  But, Chia seeds came to mind, then sesame seeds, and toasted coconut.  Here’s why.

Chia seeds, a member of the mint family, are rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids, fiber, and B vitamins.  Chia seeds also contain protein and calcium and are gluten-free.   They also play an important role in regulating blood sugar and blood pressure.  Chia seeds have a mild flavor and are great addition to salads, cereals, smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, muffins, breads, soups, and desserts.  You can find out more information about the benefits of these super seeds here.

Sesame seeds are also excellent source of nutrients and minerals.  You can confirm their benefits here.

Lastly, coconut.  According to Coconut Research Center, coconut is known as the “tree of life” because it’s highly nutritious and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals and provides many health benefits beyond its nutritional content, especially its oil.  You can read more about it here.

So, what more can you ask?  A simple, easy to make, delicious treat with the above health benefits; who would not want to eat them?

Yields:     35 coconut balls

Ingredients:

• 1 can condensed milk
• 2 1/4 cups organic, low-fat unsweetened finely shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup organic Chia seeds
• 1/4 cup toasted coconut
• 1/4 cup Sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
• chopped tree nuts (optional)

Preparation Methods:

Place the toasted coconut, Chia seeds, and Sesame seeds in separate small bowls.  Set aside.  Heat skillet over low heat then add oil when hot.  Pour the entire can of condensed milk.

Let it bubble a little bit then stir, scraping the sides and bottom of the pan. Be mindful.  The milk can burn fast if you are not careful. Let it cook for 15 to 25 seconds or so depending on the heat of your stove.  Turn the heat to very low setting.  Add the shredded coconut and quickly stir.

Keep stirring until the coconut and condensed milk are well combined and all the liquid is absorbed.   Do not overcook.  Let stand just until warm enough to handle.  Scoop 1/2 tablespoon of the coconut mixture and place it in one of the bowls with super foods (Chia, Sesame, and Coconut). Press down to coat then roll on your palm to form a ball.  You have to work very quickly.  You do not want the coconut mixture to harden or you won’t be able to roll them well.

Place them on a baking sheet or a plate.

You can either put them in a decorative box lined with colorful tissue paper wrapped with a festive Christmas-inspired hand tied bow or….

you can add half of homemade or store bought cookies of your choice then wrap it and place it on your guests’ plate for them to take home.  You can also put the coconut balls in a fancy bowl and add them to your dessert buffet for everyone to enjoy.  Be creative. I know you already have something in mind. 🙂

Variations:

You can also dip these balls in melted white or dark chocolates and sprinkle them with crushed candy canes or with your favorite sprinkles.  I am sure they would be sinfully delicious!  You can also make it more fun for the children by serving them like cake balls with some colorful lollipop sticks.  Or, you can flatten them like cookies.   I love these variations and will definitely try it out and will post some pictures later. 

Have a peaceful, joyful, and blessed holidays to all.  Don’t forget the real reason for the season, which is the birth of our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.  Be a blessing to others simply by giving, being a comfort to those who are hurting, be a friend to those who are rejected, and extending help to those who are less fortunate.   Merry Christmas! 🙂

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