Coconut and Dried Fruit Balls

Alright, so… these coconut and dried fruit balls. I know, the name doesn’t quite do justice to how lovely they actually are. But when you bite into one – it’s chewy and soft, but with little sparks of crunch from almonds, and the coconut just sort of blooms in your mouth. Everything sticky-sweet and rich from the dried fruit, but not overdone. I’ve made them so often they’ve sort of become a quiet ritual in my kitchen – especially when it gets chilly, or when I want something just a bit nostalgic but not fussy. And honestly, the smell when mixing everything together? It wraps around you like a hug… coconut, honey, warm vanilla… earthy-sweet and comforting. And the best part? No oven. Just your hands, a bowl, and a little bit of patience.

Why You’ll Crave It

• They take, genuinely, less than 15 minutes to make – no kidding
• Perfect for when you want something sweet but not sugary
• Soft, chewy texture with little bursts of crunch – so satisfying
• No baking involved – just chill and eat
• Easy to customize with whatever fruits or nuts are hiding in your cupboard

The first time I made this, my sister came by unexpectedly and ended up eating half the batch straight from the fridge.

What You’ll Need

• Coconut: 100g shredded, unsweetened – light and snowy, perfect for base and coating
• Mixed dried fruits: 150g chopped finely – I love a mix of dates, dried apricots, maybe a fig or two
• Almonds: 50g, roughly chopped – keeps things textured and not too sticky-soft
• Honey: 2 tablespoons – holds everything together and adds just the right glow of sweetness
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon – because that warm, soft aroma changes everything
• Salt: a tiny pinch – don’t skip it, it brings the flavors out in the nicest way

Easy How-To

Chop and Measure

You’ll want to chop the dried fruits pretty small – not minced, but small enough so they mingle well and don’t clump. Do the same with the almonds. Don’t worry if things aren’t all the same size. This isn’t meant to look polished.

Mix Everything

In a salad bowl or mixing bowl – whatever you have – toss the coconut, chopped fruits, almonds, honey, vanilla, and the tiniest pinch of salt. Just stir with a spoon at first, then switch to your hands once it all starts coming together. It warms up in your fingers, and you’ll know when it’s mixed right – slightly sticky but not wet, and holds its shape when you press it.

Shape Into Balls

Now, take a tablespoon or so of the mix and gently roll it between your palms into a compact ball. If it crumbles a bit, just squeeze tighter or add the tiniest touch of honey. You’ll get the hang of it after the first two.

Chill

Set them down on a parchment-lined plate or tray and pop them in the fridge for about 30 minutes. That’s all they need to firm up. They’ll hold much better after that and get this nice cool snap when you bite in.

Optional Roll in Coconut

Once firm, you can roll the balls in a bit more shredded coconut. It gives a bit of fuzz on the outside, makes them look special, and keeps your fingers a bit cleaner too.

Good to Know

• If your dried fruit is a bit too dry or tough, soak them in warm water for 5-10 minutes. Just pat dry before mixing.
• They taste even better the next day – more mellow, more together (if they last that long, which they often don’t…)
• I once added chopped dried cherries and… wow. That subtle sour note was lovely with the coconut.

Serving Ideas

• Serve cold with tea or coffee as a wholesome little sweet
• Pack a couple in a small tin for a road trip snack – they don’t mind a journey
• Add to a cheese plate, seriously – next to Manchego or goat cheese? Divine

Top Tricks

• If the mix feels too crumbly, add just a bit more honey – a teaspoon at a time. Not too much or it gets tacky.
• For vegan version, use maple syrup or date syrup instead of honey – both are wonderful
• Wet your hands slightly if the mix sticks too much while rolling – but don’t overdo it

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweetened coconut?

You can, though it will definitely change the final flavor – much sweeter, and sometimes a bit cloying. Try a mix if that’s all you have.

Can kids help make these?

Definitely. Shaping them is one of those calming, repetitive tasks that kids love. Just keep the fruit knives away unless helping age-appropriately.

How long do these last?

In the fridge, in a sealed container, easily 5 to 7 days. Though mine almost never last beyond three…

Can I freeze them?

Yes! They freeze beautifully. I layer them with parchment and thaw a few at a time overnight in the fridge.

Can I add oats or seeds?

Yes, and I often do. A spoonful of flax meal or a handful of oats makes them heartier, though you may need a little more honey to bind.