Moon Rocks
Moon Rocks are sweet, coconut-covered treats with a zesty orange flavor, perfect for parties or as a fun, tropical dessert for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the powdered sugar, frozen orange juice, ground pecans, 1/2 of the shredded coconut, melted butter, and grated orange peel in a mixing bowl and mix thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Roll each ball in the remaining shredded coconut to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened. If you don't have ground pecans, walnuts or almonds can be substituted. To make the mixing process easier, let the butter soften at room temperature before combining the ingredients. If you prefer a different citrus flavor, lemon juice can be used in place of orange juice.
Serving Suggestions
These Moon Rocks make a delightful sweet treat for parties or gatherings. Serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon snack. They also pair beautifully with Coconut Buns for a tropical-themed dessert platter. For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate over them before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Moon Rocks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them, where they can last up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the balls, separating layers with parchment paper; they will keep well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Moon Rocks contains roughly 547 calories, with 6g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 7g 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 orange juice instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh orange juice instead of frozen. Just ensure to measure the equivalent amount, which is about 6 ounces, and adjust the sugar if needed, as fresh juice can vary in sweetness.
What can I do if the mixture is too sticky to shape?
If the mixture feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to shape into balls. You can also lightly grease your hands with butter or oil to help prevent sticking.
How can I make these Moon Rocks more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture. You could also mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Experimenting with different nuts can add a unique taste as well.
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).