These delectable treats, featuring a rich chocolate fudge center blended with oatmeal and coconut, are perfect for freezing and enjoy eating cold. They’re just as delightful as the ones I cherished in my childhood. Whether you’re making these for a festive occasion or just for a sweet snack, these snowballs are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients List

• 3 cups granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps form the fudge texture.
• 3/4 cup melted butter – Provides a rich, buttery flavor.
• 1 1/4 cups whole milk – Creates the creamy base for the fudge mixture.
• 3 cups large rolled oats – Contributes a hearty texture and flavor.
• 1 cup unsweetened fine coconut – Adds a subtle sweetness and chewy texture.
• 12 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder – Infuses the fudge with a rich chocolate flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups extra coconut – For rolling the snowballs, enhancing the texture and taste.

How to make

1. Prepare the Fudge Mixture

Start by taking a large saucepan—preferably one with high sides since the mixture will bubble up while boiling. Combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, and whole milk in the saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. It’s essential to use a large pot because the mixture will foam up as it heats.

• Boil the Mixture

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue boiling it for approximately 5 to 6 minutes. This is crucial for achieving the right consistency, so it’s best to use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. The mixture should reach around 225 to 230 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid stirring the mixture while it’s boiling to prevent crystallization.

From my experience, the mixture typically takes about 6 minutes to reach the desired temperature, but this can vary based on your stove and pot size. Once it reaches the correct temperature, remove it from the heat immediately.

• Combine Dry Ingredients

While the fudge mixture is boiling, combine the large rolled oats, 1 cup of fine coconut, and unsweetened cocoa powder in a separate large bowl. Stir these dry ingredients until they are well mixed.

• Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Once the fudge mixture has reached the right temperature, carefully pour it over the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined. The mixture will be quite soft and loose at this stage, so let it cool slightly before moving on to the next step.

• Chill the Mixture

Transfer the bowl to the refrigerator and chill the mixture until it is firm enough to handle. This step is crucial because the mixture needs to be cold enough to shape into balls. Typically, the chilling process takes several hours or overnight.

I found that letting the mixture cool to nearly room temperature before refrigerating helps it firm up more effectively. The next day, the mixture should be easy to scoop and roll into balls.

• Shape the Snowballs

Once the mixture is sufficiently chilled and firm, scoop out portions and roll them into 1 1/2 inch balls. This can be a bit messy, so it might help to use a spoon or cookie scoop for consistency.

• Coat in Coconut

Roll each ball in the remaining coconut to coat them thoroughly. This adds a delightful texture and a touch of sweetness.

• Store Properly

Place the finished snowballs in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This ensures they maintain their soft yet slightly chewy texture. They’re also perfect for freezing if you prefer them cold—just like the kids and I used to enjoy them.

These snowballs keep their shape and taste well in the freezer, making them a great make-ahead treat.

Additional Tips

• Preparation Time: Including chilling time, preparing these snowballs will take around 2 hours. Be sure not to double the recipe, as the boiling time may not be sufficient for larger quantities. Using a candy thermometer is especially helpful when adjusting the recipe size.
• Consistency: If you find that the mixture is too soft to roll after chilling, return it to the fridge for a bit longer.
• Variations: Experiment with adding different flavors or ingredients such as nuts or dried fruit for a personalized touch.