Coconut Bon Bons

24 servings Prep: 25 m Cook: PT0M Total: 25 m Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
Coconut Bon Bons
These are coconut balls known as Bon Bons rolled in red colored granulated sugar that I had as a child. Ray’s Market in Maurice, La. use to sell these but unfortunately no longer do. Made with shredded coconut, condensed milk, and powdered sugar, these sweet treats are perfect for Christmas with festive red or green colored sugar coating.

Ingredients

24 servings
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1 tbsp vanilla flavoring
  • 1 package (14 oz) shredded coconut
  • 2 pounds powdered sugar
  • 1 can condensed milk
  • food coloring and granulated sugar for rolling

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mix in this order - melted butter, condensed milk, vanilla, coconut, and then the powdered sugar until well combined.
  2. Roll into small balls (about 1 inch diameter), then roll in colored sugar. Let stand to dry 24 hours after rolling in sugar.
  3. Chocolate Bon Bons variation: Add two melted squares or 2 oz unsweetened chocolate to the mixture; then roll in sugar.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why are my bon bons too sticky to roll?

A: The mixture needs enough powdered sugar to firm up. Make sure you've added the full 2 pounds and mixed it thoroughly. If still sticky, chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes before rolling.

Q: Can I skip the 24-hour drying time?

A: The drying time helps the colored sugar coating set properly and prevents it from bleeding or getting sticky. For best results, let them dry the full 24 hours.

Tips and Techniques

For easier rolling, lightly butter your hands or use a small cookie scoop to portion the mixture. The colored sugar coating works best if you roll the balls right after forming them while they’re slightly tacky.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • shredded coconut: sweetened or unsweetened coconut
  • condensed milk: evaporated milk with extra sugar

Equipment Needed

  • mixing bowl
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • baking sheet or tray for drying
  • small cookie scoop (optional, for uniform sizing)

Historical Context

These simple no-bake candies have been a Louisiana holiday tradition for generations, often made in festive red and green for Christmas. They’re part of the South Louisiana candy-making tradition that includes pralines and other sweet treats.