If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s quick, no bake, and nostalgic, Newfoundland Snow Balls are a perfect pick.
These little chocolate-oat coconut balls have just a few ingredients, come together with a short stovetop boil, and then roll in coconut to get that snow-ball finish. They’re easy enough for beginners, yet rich and comforting enough to impress.
In this article, you’ll get the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting tips, storage ideas, and a few tasty variations to customize your batch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and no-bake (after a few minutes of boiling)
- Uses pantry staples like oats, cocoa, sugar, butter, and coconut
- Fun to make — forming and rolling the balls is half the joy
- Freezer-friendly — make a batch ahead and enjoy later
Recipe Snapshot
| Yield | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| ~36-48 balls (depending on size) | 10–15 mins | ~5 mins | ~30-45 mins (including chill time) |
Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened fine shredded coconut (plus extra for rolling)
- ¾ cup cocoa powder (adjust to taste)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup melted butter
- 1¼ cups milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, mix the oats, 1 cup shredded coconut, and cocoa powder; set aside.
- Boil the wet mixture. In your saucepan, combine sugar, melted butter, and milk. Bring gently to a full boil over medium heat. Once boiling, do not stir. Continue boiling for ~5 minutes (or until a candy thermometer shows around 230°F / 110°C).
- Mix wet and dry. Remove from heat. Quickly pour the hot sugar-butter mixture over the oat/coconut/cocoa dry mix. Stir until evenly combined — the heat helps bind everything together.
- Chill until set enough to shape. Let the mixture cool in the fridge or a cool place until it thickens enough to form balls. This may take 15-30 minutes depending on room temperature.
- Shape and roll. Scoop or shape into balls about 1½-inch in diameter. Roll each in extra shredded coconut until fully coated.
- Final chill & firm up. Return the finished balls to the fridge for a final firming stage. Once set, they’re ready to eat.
Tips & Troubleshooting
- If the mixture feels too loose / falling apart: Chill longer, and consider adding an extra 1–2 tbsp oats.
- If it’s too dry or crumbly: Warm it a bit then gently knead in a splash more milk.
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to reduce risk of scorching.
- If sugar crystallizes (becomes grainy), next time make sure heat is even and avoid stirring once the boil starts.
Variations & Custom Ideas
- Add chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans) for a crunchy twist.
- Use dark cocoa powder or Dutch-processed for richer chocolate flavor.
- Make them flavored: add ½ tsp vanilla extract or orange zest.
- For dairy-free / vegan version: use plant-based milk and vegan butter or coconut oil.
Storage & Serving
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze in a single layer until firm, then move to a freezer bag. Keeps up to 3 months.
- Serving suggestion: These taste great with coffee or tea, or even as a little dessert garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I skip using a thermometer?
A: Yes — you can estimate by boiling for ~5 minutes once it reaches full rolling boil. But a thermometer helps for precision.
Q: How large should each snow ball be?
A: Aim for about 1½-inch diameter balls. That usually yields 36-48 depending on how big you roll them.
Q: What if I don’t have shredded coconut?
A: Use desiccated or finely shredded coconut. If none, you can roll in extra oats or cocoa mixture (though texture will vary).
Q: Can I make them ahead for parties or gifts?
A: Absolutely — they freeze really well and thaw quickly. Great make-ahead treat.
Newfoundland Snow Balls are a delight — a simple, no-bake sweet that brings chocolate, coconut, and oats together in little round treats. They’re forgiving, fun, and perfect when you want something sweet without turning on the oven.
Give this recipe a try, snap a photo, share with friends, and let me know which variation you loved the most!