Save The first time I made Moose Bites, my apartmentmate Sarah wandered into the kitchen halfway through rolling the balls and asked what smelled like a bakery exploded in our living room. These no-bake treats started as a desperate attempt to use up a can of sweetened condensed milk that had been sitting in my pantry since the holidays, and somehow became the most requested snack at every gathering since.
I brought these to a potluck last winter, and my friend Tom actually followed me around the room until I admitted what was in them. He could not believe something so simple could taste this indulgent, and neither could I when I first experimented with the recipe.
Ingredients
- Sweetened condensed milk: The glue holding everything together, and the secret behind that impossibly creamy texture
- Unsalted butter: Melted creates a smooth base that helps bind all the dry ingredients without making the mixture too stiff
- Vanilla extract: Just enough to round out all the sweetness and make these taste like something special
- Dried shredded coconut: Adds texture and a subtle tropical note that balances the richness
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provide that familiar honey flavor and crumbly structure reminiscent of classic pie crusts
- Chocolate chips: Semi-sweet cuts through all that sweetened milk while adding pockets of melty goodness
Instructions
- Mix the wet base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until completely smooth and glossy, which should only take about 30 seconds of folding.
- Combine everything:
- Add the graham cracker crumbs, dried coconut, and chocolate chips to the bowl. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and no dry pockets remain visible.
- Chill the mixture:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until the mixture is firm enough to handle without sticking to your hands.
- Roll into balls:
- Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the mixture and roll into 1 1/4-inch balls. Work quickly since the warmth from your hands will soften the mixture.
- Coat and finish:
- Roll each ball in extra graham cracker crumbs to coat completely. Place on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or until set.
Save My grandmother actually keeps a batch of these in her freezer at all times, which she learned after showing up to a book club meeting once without dessert and frantically improvising with whatever was in her cupboard.
Making Them Your Own
The beauty of Moose Bites is how easily they adapt to whatever you have on hand or whatever flavors youre craving. I once made a batch with crushed pretzels instead of graham crackers, and the salty-sweet combination was absolute perfection.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These actually taste better after sitting overnight, which makes them ideal for party planning. The flavors meld together and the texture firms up beautifully, so do not hesitate to make them a day ahead.
Serving Suggestions
While these are perfectly delicious on their own, I love serving them alongside a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, especially on snowy afternoons when you need something sweet to match the mood outside.
- Arrange them on a vintage cake stand for an effortless but pretty presentation
- Try rolling some in cocoa powder or powdered sugar for variety in appearance
- Keep them small because they are richer than they appear
Save Hope these become your go-to treat for every last-minute invitation and midnight craving. They certainly have for me.
Recipe FAQ
- → How long do these need to chill before serving?
The mixture needs about 1 hour in the refrigerator to firm enough for rolling. After shaping, chill the balls for at least 15 additional minutes until set. For best texture, serve them cold and store leftovers refrigerated.
- → Can I freeze these for later?
Yes, place the rolled and coated balls on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They'll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
- → What's the best way to get consistent-sized balls?
Use a small cookie scoop (about 1 1/4 inches) for uniform portions. If using a tablespoon, level it off each time for consistency. The warmth of your hands will help shape them smoothly, but work quickly so they don't soften too much.
- → Can I substitute the sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk provides the essential binding and sweetness. Alternatives like coconut cream won't achieve the same texture. For a dairy-free version, look for plant-based sweetened condensed milk alternatives available at specialty stores.
- → Why did my mixture turn out too sticky to roll?
If the mixture is too soft, it likely needs more chilling time. Temperature affects consistency significantly—warm ingredients or a warm kitchen can make the dough sticky. Refrigerate longer or place the bowl in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before rolling.
- → What variations work well with this base?
Add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for nutty crunch. Swap milk chocolate chips for dark, white, or butterscotch chips. Try adding dried fruit like cranberries or cherries during holidays. For flavor depth, add a tablespoon of instant espresso powder or replace vanilla with almond or coconut extract.