Matcha Coconut Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These no-bake sweets come together quickly with simple pantry ingredients and minimal equipment. The almond flour and coconut make the centers soft and satisfying, while the matcha adds a gentle, energizing flavor. They’re easily adaptable—gluten-free by nature and simple to make vegan—plus they chill beautifully for make-ahead convenience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the balls:
almond flour
shredded unsweetened coconut
matcha powder (culinary grade)
honey (or maple syrup for a vegan version)
coconut oil, melted
almond milk, as needed to bind

For the glaze:
white chocolate (or vegan white chocolate)
matcha powder
coconut oil, melted

For the topping:
shredded unsweetened coconut

Directions

1. Mix the dough: In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, shredded coconut, and matcha until evenly green. Stir in honey and melted coconut oil until the mixture clumps. Add almond milk 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough presses together easily.

2. Shape: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough, roll into smooth balls, and place on a parchment-lined tray. Repeat with the remaining dough.

3. Chill: Refrigerate for 30 minutes to help the balls firm up for glazing.

4. Make the glaze: Melt white chocolate with coconut oil in short microwave bursts (or over a double boiler) until smooth. Whisk in matcha until evenly colored.

5. Glaze and decorate: Dip each chilled ball into the glaze, let excess drip off, and return to the tray. Immediately sprinkle with shredded coconut.

6. Set: Chill 15–20 minutes, until the glaze is firm. Serve chilled or at cool room temperature.

Servings and timing

Servings: about 18–20 balls (9–10 servings, 2 balls per serving)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Vegan all the way: Use maple syrup and vegan white chocolate.

• Nut-free: Substitute fine, defatted sunflower seed flour for almond flour; add an extra teaspoon of coconut oil if the dough seems dry.

• Citrus lift: Add 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon or orange zest to the dough.

• Toasted coconut: Lightly toast the shredded coconut before mixing for deeper flavor.

• Dark chocolate shell: Swap the white chocolate glaze for melted dark chocolate for a bolder finish.

• Extra matcha: Increase matcha by ½–1 teaspoon for a stronger, more pronounced flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze (glazed or unglazed) in a single layer, then transfer to a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator. These are best enjoyed chilled; reheating is not recommended.

FAQs

Can I use ceremonial-grade matcha?

Yes. Ceremonial grade offers a brighter color and smoother flavor; culinary grade is perfectly fine and more economical.

My mixture is crumbly—what should I do?

Add almond milk 1 teaspoon at a time and knead until the dough holds when pressed. A tiny splash of melted coconut oil also helps.

Can I skip the glaze?

Absolutely. Roll the balls in extra shredded coconut or a light dusting of matcha for a simpler finish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always verify labels to avoid cross-contamination.

How do I make the balls sweeter without changing texture?

Add an extra teaspoon of honey or maple syrup, or sift in 1–2 teaspoons of powdered sugar to the glaze.

Can I substitute the almond flour?

Use fine sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option, or finely ground cashew flour for a similar texture and flavor.

Will the caffeine in matcha be noticeable?

Each ball contains only a small amount of matcha, so the caffeine is mild compared to a cup of tea or coffee.

How do I prevent green, streaky glaze?

Whisk the matcha thoroughly into the melted chocolate and strain if needed. Make sure the chocolate is fully melted and smooth first.

Can I use sweetened coconut?

Yes, but reduce the honey/maple slightly to keep the sweetness balanced.

How can I make the balls extra smooth?

Pulse the dry ingredients in a food processor before adding the wet ingredients, then roll with slightly damp hands for a glossy finish.

Conclusion

These Matcha Coconut Balls deliver creamy, truffle-like bites with a clean, vibrant matcha flavor and a delicate coconut crunch. They’re quick to assemble, easy to customize, and perfect for make-ahead snacking or elegant dessert trays. Keep a batch chilled and enjoy a little green goodness anytime.