These coconut date balls are delightfully simple, naturally sweetened, and ready in minutes—no baking required. With just six wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a snack that’s vegan, fruit-sweetened, and perfect for enjoying any time of day. The combination of chewy dates, rich cocoa, and creamy coconut makes for a satisfying treat that still feels light and nourishing.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
10 medjool dates
½ cup desiccated coconut, plus extra for rolling
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
1 pinch sea salt
1 tablespoon water (more or less depending on the dates)
Directions
Place all of the ingredients except the water into the bowl of a food processor.
Blend until the dates are very finely chopped and the mixture starts to come together.
Add about 1 tablespoon of water (you may need a bit more or less, depending on how moist your dates are) and pulse again until the “dough” holds when pressed into a ball.
Shape the mixture into tablespoon-sized balls.
Roll each ball in the extra desiccated coconut to coat.
Store the coconut date balls in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.
Dip the balls in melted dark chocolate for a more decadent version instead of rolling them in coconut.
Swap out the cocoa powder for raw cacao if you prefer a slightly more intense chocolate flavor.
Replace cinnamon with a pinch of fresh ginger or cardamom for a different spice note.
Use deglet noor dates instead of medjool (approximately two deglet dates for every medjool) — if your dates are older or drier, soak them in very hot water for about 30 minutes first.
Add chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) or a handful of shredded coconut inside the mixture for extra texture.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
There’s no reheating needed—they’re ready to eat straight from the fridge or freezer. If frozen, allow a minute or two at room temperature to soften before serving.
FAQs
What does desiccated coconut mean?
Desiccated coconut refers to shredded, dried coconut and is usually a bit finer in texture than regular shredded coconut.
Are the dates okay to eat every day?
Dates are high in fiber and contain beneficial nutrients, but they’re also high in natural sugar, so they’re best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Can I use different types of dates?
Yes—soft medjool dates work best, but you can use deglet noor dates if you have them. If using drier dates, soak them in hot water for 30 minutes before using.
What if my mixture is too dry and won’t stick together?
Add a small amount of water—just enough so the mixture holds when pressed into a ball. The exact amount will vary depending on how moist your dates are.
What if the mixture is too sticky?
If it’s overly sticky, add a little more desiccated coconut or refrigerate the dough for 10 minutes before shaping into balls.
Can I use shredded coconut instead of desiccated coconut?
Yes, you can substitute shredded coconut, though the texture may be slightly different (a bit more coarse).
Are these snack balls suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes—they require no animal products, and they’re naturally sweetened with fruit.
Can I add protein powder to the mixture?
Yes—you could add a tablespoon or two of a neutral-flavored plant-based protein powder, though you may need to adjust the water or coconut amount to maintain the right dough consistency.
What’s the best way to serve them?
They’re great chilled as is, or you can pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a tasty treat.
Can children eat these safely?
Yes, they’re made with wholesome ingredients. Just be mindful of portion size and supervise if very young children are eating them, as dates are sticky and chewy.
Conclusion
These no-bake coconut date balls are a wonderfully simple, healthy snack that require minimal effort and deliver maximum flavor. Whether you’re craving something sweet after lunch, need a quick energy bite, or want a make-ahead treat on hand, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Give them a try—you’ll likely keep making them again and again.
