Introduction

Coconut Bon Bons are delightful, bite-sized treats perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. These creamy, coconut-filled balls dipped in bittersweet chocolate combine rich flavors and a pleasing texture that make them irresistible at any gathering.

The image shows several round chocolate balls with a smooth, shiny dark brown chocolate coating. Each ball is decorated with thin, slightly darker chocolate lines drizzled on top, creating a textured pattern. One of the chocolate balls is cut open, revealing a soft, creamy pale yellow filling inside. All the chocolates are placed closely together on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 stick real butter, softened
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 packages sweetened flaked coconut (14 ounces each)
Good quality bittersweet chocolate for dipping (such as Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers)

Instructions

Step 1: Add the coconut to a blender and pulse 2-3 times to slightly break it up. Transfer the coconut to a large bowl. Add 1 cup of powdered sugar, the softened butter, and vanilla extract, then mix to combine. Alternate adding the sweetened condensed milk and the remaining powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Using your hands can make this easier.
Step 2: Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on a cookie sheet lined with wax or parchment paper. Refrigerate or freeze for a few minutes until the balls are firm.
Step 3: Fill a narrow, deep microwave-safe mug about two-thirds full with chocolate wafers or broken chocolate pieces. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then microwave for another 20 seconds. Stir again and, if necessary, heat in 10-second increments until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
Step 4: Insert a toothpick into the top center of each coconut ball, then dip it into the melted chocolate. Hold it over the cup to let excess chocolate drip off, then place it back on the lined cookie sheet. Remove the toothpick and use a teaspoon to dab a small amount of chocolate onto the top to cover the hole.
Step 5: Allow the chocolate coating to set for several hours until completely firm. Once set, use a sharp knife to trim any excess chocolate from the bottoms of the bon bons.
Step 6: Store the bon bons in an airtight container. Refrigerate if not consuming within a few days to keep them fresh longer.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother texture, pulse the coconut more thoroughly in the blender before mixing.
Try using milk chocolate or white chocolate instead of bittersweet for a different flavor.
Add a few drops of almond extract along with vanilla for a subtle nutty twist.
Chilling the mixture before rolling makes forming the balls easier and less sticky.

Storage

Store the coconut bon bons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to one week. When ready to serve, you can bring them to room temperature for better flavor. Avoid freezing as it may affect the texture and chocolate coating.

How to Serve

A close-up image of several round chocolate truffles arranged closely together on a white plate, each covered in smooth dark brown chocolate with thin chocolate drizzle lines layered on top. One truffle is cut in half in the center, revealing its creamy, shredded white coconut filling inside with small chocolate bits mixed in. The truffles have a shiny, slightly glossy texture, and the plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bon bons ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bon bons a day or two ahead and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What type of chocolate works best for dipping?

Good quality bittersweet chocolate or chocolate melting wafers are ideal as they melt smoothly and harden with a nice shine, but milk or white chocolate can also be used based on preference.