Coconut Dainties Bon Bon
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 - 3 ounce package cream cheese
- 1 cup grated coconut
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- candied cherries optional
- optional red and green food coloring
- pecans, dates or apricot for center optional
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Work sugar into cream cheese with hands; mix well.
- Add coconut to the mixture and mix.
- Form into small balls, roll in coconut and top with bits of candied cherries for garnish if using. Or tint coconut with food coloring and roll in a festive color.
- Roll the balls around roasted pecans for a nutty flavor.
- Will keep in a cool dry place for several days.
Common Problems and Solutions
Q: Why are my bon-bons falling apart?
A: The cream cheese needs to be at room temperature so it blends smoothly with the powdered sugar. If it's too cold, the mixture won't hold together properly. Work the sugar in thoroughly with your hands until you have a smooth, cohesive mixture.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These bon-bons keep well in a cool, dry place for several days, or you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They're perfect for holiday cookie trays and gift boxes.
Tips and Techniques
For the prettiest presentation, use two colors of tinted coconut (red and green for Christmas) and arrange them on a platter. Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before starting—it makes mixing much easier and results in a smoother texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
- cream cheese: mascarpone cheese
- grated coconut: sweetened flaked coconut
- candied cherries: dried cranberries or crystallized ginger
Equipment Needed
- mixing bowl
- measuring cups
Historical Context
No-bake cream cheese candies became popular in the South during the mid-20th century when home cooks wanted festive sweets without heating up the kitchen. These dainty bon-bons were perfect for holiday entertaining and gift-giving.
