Have you ever wished you could make a sweet holiday treat without turning on the oven or spending hours in the kitchen? Many people think homemade desserts are hard, messy, or time-consuming. But what if you could create something creamy, coconut-covered, and delicious in just minutes?
That is exactly what makes these NO BAKE – Cream-Cheese Coconut Snowballs so amazing. With only a few simple ingredients and almost no prep time, you can make a dessert that looks fancy, tastes rich, and feels like a winter wonderland in every bite. These little snowballs may be small, but they bring big flavor and big fun.
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NO BAKE – Cream-Cheese Coconut Snowballs
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 snowballs 1x
Description
These NO BAKE – Cream-Cheese Coconut Snowballs are the quickest, creamiest, fluffiest little treats you can make without ever turning on the oven. Soft cream cheese, sweet coconut, and a hint of vanilla come together to create the perfect melt-in-your-mouth holiday bite. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, these snowballs are perfect for parties, gifting, or whenever you want an easy, sweet treat that looks beautiful and tastes even better.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut (plus more for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional mix-ins: mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, crushed cookies, dried cranberries
Instructions
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the Sugar: Slowly mix in powdered sugar until fully combined and fluffy.
- Mix in Coconut and Vanilla: Stir in shredded coconut and vanilla until evenly mixed. Fold in any optional add-ins.
- Chill the Dough: Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 15–20 minutes, or until firm enough to roll.
- Form the Snowballs: Scoop small portions and roll into round balls using your hands.
- Coat in Coconut: Roll each ball in a bowl of shredded coconut until fully covered.
- Chill Again: Place snowballs on a lined tray and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes, or until firm and set.
Notes
If the mixture is too soft to roll, chill it longer or add a bit more powdered sugar. Use slightly damp hands to prevent sticking while rolling. For a fun twist, swap vanilla for almond or coconut extract, or roll some of the snowballs in toasted coconut for extra flavor. Keep snowballs chilled until ready to serve for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: Holiday Sweet Treat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 snowball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
NO BAKE – Cream-Cheese Coconut Snowballs are soft, sweet, and creamy treats rolled in fluffy coconut flakes. They look like tiny snowballs, making them perfect for holidays, parties, gifts, or simple anytime snacking.
This recipe is special because:
- It requires no baking at all
- It uses only a few basic ingredients
- It takes less than 20 minutes to prepare
- It is easy enough for kids to help
- It offers endless variations
- It stores well and can be made ahead
Time Requirement:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30–60 minutes
- Total Time: 45–75 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Very easy. Anyone can make this recipe, even beginners.
Essential Ingredients
Here are the main ingredients you need to make NO BAKE – Cream-Cheese Coconut Snowballs.
Cream Cheese
This gives the snowballs their rich and creamy texture.
Substitutions:
- Neufchâtel cheese (lighter option)
- Vegan cream cheese
- Mascarpone for an extra smooth texture
Powdered Sugar
Adds sweetness and helps bind the mixture.
Substitutions:
- Coconut sugar blended into powder
- Maple powdered sugar
Shredded Coconut
Used inside and outside the snowballs.
Substitutions:
- Toasted coconut for a richer flavor
- Unsweetened coconut for a less sweet version
Vanilla Extract
Adds warm flavor.
Substitutions:
- Almond extract for a nutty twist
- Coconut extract to boost tropical flavor
Optional Mix-Ins
These add texture and fun.
- Crushed graham crackers
- Chopped nuts
- Chocolate chips
- Dried cranberries
- Mini marshmallows
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make perfect snowballs every time.
1. Prepare the Cream-Cheese Base
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. This makes it easier to mix and prevents lumps. If your cream cheese is too cold, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
2. Add Sweetness
Add powdered sugar slowly while mixing. This helps keep the mixture fluffy and prevents powdered sugar from puffing out into the air.
Tip: If you prefer a firmer snowball, add a little more powdered sugar.
3. Add Flavor and Coconut
Stir in vanilla extract and shredded coconut. The coconut gives texture and helps the mixture form stable balls that hold their shape.
Mix until everything is fully combined.
4. Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for 15–20 minutes. This makes the mixture easier to roll.
Tip: If the mixture is still too soft, chill for an extra 10 minutes.
5. Roll Into Snowballs
Using a small scoop or spoon, scoop out small portions and gently roll them between your hands to form round balls.
Tip: Slightly damp hands prevent sticking.
6. Coat the Snowballs
Roll each ball in a shallow bowl filled with shredded coconut. Cover the entire surface for a snowy effect.
7. Chill to Set
Place the finished snowballs on a lined tray and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes until firm.
Assembly and Presentation Tips
Building these snowballs is simple, but presentation can make them look even more special.
Here are some ideas:
- Roll them in different types of coconut for a snowy color mix
- Place each snowball in a small cupcake liner
- Dust lightly with extra powdered sugar for a frosty look
- Add a small edible pearl on top for holiday charm
- Serve on a white platter to match the snowball theme
These little touches make your treats look gift-ready or party-ready.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best parts of NO BAKE – Cream-Cheese Coconut Snowballs is how long they last and how easy they are to store.
Refrigeration
Store in an airtight container for up to 5–7 days. Make sure they are well chilled to keep their shape.
Freezing
Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
To serve, thaw in the fridge for 1–2 hours.
Make-Ahead
Prepare the mixture up to 24 hours before rolling.
You can also roll them fully and chill until ready to serve.
These snowballs hold up beautifully, making them perfect for holidays and events.
Recipe Variations
Want to make these snowballs your own? Try these creative ideas.
Chocolate Coconut Snowballs
Add cocoa powder or dip the finished snowballs in melted chocolate.
Lemon Coconut Snowballs
Add lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor.
Almond Joy Snowballs
Add chopped almonds and mini chocolate chips.
Peppermint Snowballs
Add crushed peppermint candies for a festive holiday flair.
Strawberry Snowballs
Add freeze-dried strawberry powder to the cream-cheese mixture.
Cookie Crumble Snowballs
Mix in crushed cookies like Oreos or vanilla wafers.
These variations allow you to customize your treats for any season or taste preference.
Conclusion
NO BAKE – Cream-Cheese Coconut Snowballs are simple, fun, and delicious treats that anyone can make. With only a few ingredients and no baking involved, they are perfect for busy days, family activities, holidays, and last-minute desserts.
Their creamy center, coconut coating, and soft texture make them a crowd-favorite. Plus, you can easily change the flavors to match your own style. Give them a try and enjoy the sweet, snowy magic they bring to your kitchen.
FAQs
1. Can I make these snowballs without cream cheese?
Yes. You can use mascarpone, vegan cream cheese, or even a thick Greek yogurt blend, though the texture will change.
2. Are these snowballs gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
3. Can I use sweetened or unsweetened coconut?
Either works. Sweetened coconut makes the snowballs richer and sweeter. Unsweetened gives a lighter flavor.
4. Why is my mixture too soft?
Chill it longer or add more powdered sugar.
5. Can kids help with this recipe?
Absolutely. This is one of the best kid-friendly, no-bake recipes.
6. How long do snowballs last?
Up to 7 days in the fridge and 2 months in the freezer.
7. Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes. Use a dairy-free cream cheese and dairy-free chocolate if adding chocolate.
