Dark Chocolate-Covered Coconut Bites

Name: Dark Chocolate-Covered Coconut Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 20 bites
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded coconut (unsweetened); 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 oz dark chocolate (chopped); 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Dark Chocolate-Covered Coconut Bites because they are a decadent yet simple treat. The contrast of rich dark chocolate enveloping a chewy coconut center is irresistible, and they come together in just a few easy steps. I often make these for gatherings or simply to indulge myself after a long day. The best part is that they require no baking, and you can easily customize the sweetness to your preference. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:54:27.212Z

I remember the first time I made these Dark Chocolate-Covered Coconut Bites. The aroma of melting chocolate filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. I tried various ratios of coconut to chocolate until I found the perfect balance. To enhance the flavor, I decided to add a touch of vanilla extract, which elevated the taste and complemented the chocolate beautifully.

One of the best tips I can share is to chill the coconut mixture before dipping it in the chocolate. This way, they hold their shape better during the coating process, ensuring that each bite is a beautifully covered treat. Plus, letting them set in the fridge for a bit makes the chocolate harden perfectly!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Irresistible combination of rich chocolate and chewy coconut
No baking required for this easy recipe
Customizable sweetness to suit your taste

Understanding the Coconut Center

The key to achieving the perfect coconut center lies in using unsweetened shredded coconut. This type allows you to control the sweetness of your Dark Chocolate-Covered Coconut Bites. The sweetened condensed milk acts as a binding agent, providing not only moisture but also a luscious creaminess that balances the coconut's chewiness. When combining the ingredients, ensure that they're fully blended and the mixture feels sticky enough to hold its shape, which typically takes about 1-2 minutes of mixing.

If you prefer a hint of extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or even a splash of almond extract to the coconut mixture. This slight adjustment can enhance the overall taste and make your bites even more indulgent. Be mindful, though; a little goes a long way, so start with small amounts and taste as you go.

Perfect Chocolate Coating Techniques

Melting the chocolate properly is crucial to achieving that beautiful, glossy finish on your bites. Use a heatproof bowl, and microwave the chopped dark chocolate and coconut oil together in 30-second intervals. Stir between intervals to ensure even melting and prevent overheating. If the chocolate seizes up or becomes too thick, adding a little more coconut oil can help restore its fluidity. The ultimate goal is a smooth, drippable consistency that will beautifully coat each coconut bite.

When dipping the bites in chocolate, using a fork is essential for maintaining an even coating. Substituting with a toothpick or skewer can lead to uneven coverage. Allow the excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back on the parchment paper; this minimizes mess and results in a cleaner presentation. If you want an artistic touch, drizzle some additional melted chocolate over the set bites to create a decorative pattern.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your delicious Dark Chocolate-Covered Coconut Bites:

Ingredients

2 cups shredded coconut (unsweetened)
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 oz dark chocolate (chopped)
1 tablespoon coconut oil

With all your ingredients ready, you're just a few steps away from enjoying these delightful treats!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Dark Chocolate-Covered Coconut Bites:

Mix Coconut Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until fully blended and the mixture forms a sticky consistency.

Form Bites

Scoop a tablespoon of the coconut mixture and roll it into a small ball. Place the formed coconut bites on a parchment-lined tray. Repeat until all the mixture is shaped.

Chill

Refrigerate the coconut bites for about 15 minutes, allowing them to firm up before covering them in chocolate.

Melt Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and coconut oil. Melt the mixture in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Dip and Coat

Using a fork, dip each coconut bite in the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Place them back on the parchment paper as you finish each bite.

Set and Enjoy

Let the chocolate-covered coconut bites set in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Once the chocolate is firm, enjoy your homemade treats!

Your Dark Chocolate-Covered Coconut Bites are now ready to be savored!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top of the chocolate before it hardens. This will enhance the flavor and add a delightful contrast.

Storing and Making Ahead

These Dark Chocolate-Covered Coconut Bites store well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you're making them ahead for an event, consider preparing the coconut filling one or two days in advance. Once shaped into bites, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge until you're ready to coat them in chocolate. This not only helps with preparing but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.

If you wish to freeze the bites, simply place them in a single layer on a tray until fully frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before enjoying them to maintain their soft texture and prevent the chocolate from melting too rapidly.

Flavor Variations and Customization

While the classic chocolate and coconut combination is delightful, feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk or white chocolate, for a sweeter bite. Adding chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, into the coconut mixture can also provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the chewy texture.

For a tropical twist, try incorporating finely shredded pineapple or a splash of rum flavoring into the coconut filling. When rolling out the bites, rolling them in cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or even desiccated coconut can add an additional layer of flavor and visual appeal. These variations allow you to tailor the bites to fit your taste or any occasion!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweetened shredded coconut?

Yes, you can use sweetened shredded coconut, but it may make the bites quite sweet. Adjust the sweetened condensed milk accordingly.

→ How do I store leftover bites?

Store the chocolate-covered bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give a creamier taste, but darker chocolate contrasts better with the coconut.

→ Is it possible to make these vegan?

Yes! Use dairy-free chocolate and replace sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative.