Candy Balls(Coconut Rum)
Sweet coconut rum candy balls with chocolate coatings, perfect for special occasions or as a decadent treat for coconut and chocolate lovers. Rich, chewy, and indulgent.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine and Eagle Brand milk together.
- Add rum (optional) and powdered sugar; mix well.
- Stir in nuts, candied cherries, coconut, and chopped dates (if using); mix thoroughly.
- Chill the mixture for about 2 hours until firm.
- Using coated hands, form small balls approximately 3/4 inch in diameter.
- Place the balls on wax paper and refrigerate overnight.
- Melt the Ghirardelli double chocolate bar.
- Using a toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate and place on wax paper to dry.
- Melt white chocolate separately.
- Hand dip some balls in white chocolate to cover the toothpick marks.
- Refrigerate the finished candy balls until ready to serve or package.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum or substitute with coconut water for a tropical flavor. You can also swap out the nuts with your favorite seeds to cater to different tastes. For a fun twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These candy balls make a delightful treat for parties or holiday gatherings. Serve them on a platter alongside other sweets like Honey Laced Cookies or Oatmeal Crisps Cookies for a festive touch. They can also be packaged in decorative boxes for gift giving. Pair with coffee or a dessert wine to enhance the experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover candy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to separate layers with wax paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candy Balls(Coconut Rum) contains roughly 2602 calories, with 11g protein, 336g carbohydrates, and 111g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 15g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh coconut instead of shredded coconut?
Yes, you can use fresh coconut, but be sure to finely grate it and dry it out slightly to avoid excess moisture in the mixture. This will help maintain the texture and consistency of the candy balls.
What can I substitute for candied cherries?
If you don't have candied cherries, you can use dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots as a substitute. These alternatives will provide a similar sweetness and texture, enhancing the overall flavor of the candy balls.
How do I know when the mixture is firm enough to roll into balls?
The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when rolled into balls. If it's still too sticky after chilling for two hours, consider mixing in a little more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is achieved.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).