Nutella Coconut Almond Balls
Ingredients (Makes ~20 Balls)
- 160 g (5.64 oz) shredded coconut
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 300 ml (10.14 fl oz) milk
- 50 g (1.76 oz) peanuts, chopped
- 160 g (5.64 oz) chocolate (milk or dark)
- 20 ml (0.67 fl oz) vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons Nutella
- 20 whole almonds, peeled
Directions
1. Prepare the Coconut Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine shredded coconut, sugar, and milk.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and cook until the liquid evaporates, stirring frequently.
- Once the mixture thickens, remove from heat and allow it to cool.
2. Prepare the Almonds:
- While the coconut mixture cools, blanch the almonds in boiling water for 2–3 minutes.
- Drain, peel off the skins, and set aside to cool.
3. Form the Balls:
- Add 2 tablespoons of Nutella to the cooled coconut mixture and mix well.
- Take small portions of the mixture, place an almond in the center, and roll into balls of your desired size.
- Place the formed balls on a tray and freeze for 10 minutes to firm up.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
- Melt the chocolate and vegetable oil together in a microwave or over a double boiler until smooth.
- Finely chop the peanuts and set them aside.
5. Coat the Balls:
- Remove the balls from the freezer. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the coated balls while the chocolate is still wet.
6. Chill and Serve:
- Place the coated balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate until the chocolate sets.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Arrange on a decorative platter for parties.
- Pack in gift boxes lined with parchment paper for a homemade present.
- Serve alongside coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
- Add to dessert buffets for a crowd-pleasing option.
Cooking Tips
- Use room-temperature ingredients for easier mixing.
- Ensure the coconut mixture is cooled completely before adding Nutella to maintain the texture.
- Roll the balls with lightly greased hands to prevent sticking.
- For extra flavor, toast the coconut lightly before cooking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Almonds are a good source of healthy fats and vitamin E.
- Coconut provides dietary fiber and natural sweetness.
- A homemade alternative to store-bought sweets with fewer preservatives.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free chocolate.
Nutritional Facts (Per Ball)
- Calories: ~120
- Protein: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 6 g