Spoon Simple
Bala Baiana Coconut Caramel Balls
Brazil's viral coconut sweet — soft coconut centers wrapped in a crackly caramel shell. Three ingredients, stovetop-only, and the glossy finish that broke Instagram.
Prep 10 min
Cook 20 min
Total 30 min
Serves 20
Ingredients
Step 1 — Coconut filling
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Step 2 — Caramel coating
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp water
- Pinch of kosher salt
Instructions
- 1
Make the coconut balls
Combine coconut, condensed milk, and butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook 8–10 minutes, stirring constantly, until thick and pulling away from the pan. Cool 10 minutes, then roll into 1-inch balls. Chill 30 minutes on a parchment-lined tray.
- 2
Make the caramel
In a clean saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook over medium heat without stirring until amber, 8–10 minutes. Swirl the pan gently once the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in salt.
- 3
Coat and set
Working quickly, dip each coconut ball into the caramel using two forks, letting excess drip off. Place on parchment to set. The shell will harden into a glossy crackly coating as it cools. Serve at room temperature.
Nutrition per serving: 95 cal · 1g protein · 16g carbs · 3g fat · 1g fiber
For informational purposes only. Not medical or dietary advice. Verify ingredients for allergens, cooking times, and safe internal temperatures before serving.
