Christmas Snowballs Recipe (No Refined Sugar)
Christmas treats do not need to be packed with refined sugar to feel festive. These coconut snowballs are naturally sweetened with applesauce and a touch of maple syrup, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and texture without the sugar crash.
They make a thoughtful homemade Christmas gift, a fun addition to school lunch boxes, or a festive twist on your usual protein balls. If you want an extra boost, you can easily add your favourite protein powder to turn them into a nourishing post-workout or afternoon snack.
As a clinical nutritionist, I love that these snowballs are rich in healthy fats and fibre from coconut and almond meal, helping to balance blood sugar, support hormone production, and keep you full for longer.
The Benefits of Coconut for Women’s Health
Coconut is more than just a tropical flavour, it is rich in nutrients that can support women’s health and hormone balance.
Supports healthy cholesterol: Coconut contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which can increase HDL, the “good” cholesterol, and support heart health when used in moderation (Cardoso et al., 2017).
Balances energy and blood sugar: MCTs are rapidly absorbed and used for energy, helping to reduce cravings and stabilise blood sugar, which is important for PMS, PCOS, and fatigue management (Eyres et al., 2016).
Supports hormone production: Dietary fats like coconut oil and almond meal provide essential fatty acids and cholesterol, both of which are needed for hormone synthesis (Cardoso et al., 2017).
Gut health benefits: Coconut has antimicrobial properties that can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which is vital for hormone detoxification and mood balance (Eyres et al., 2016).
Coconut fats, primarily lauric acid and MCTs, may help improve HDL cholesterol and support energy metabolism when replacing refined carbohydrates or trans fats. Evidence suggests moderate consumption of coconut oil can have a neutral to positive effect on lipid profiles and weight management in women (Cardoso et al., 2017; Eyres et al., 2016).
Coconut Snowballs
Makes: 24 snowballs
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Setting Time: 30 minutes (optional for firmer texture)
Ingredients
160 g (2 cups) desiccated coconut
135 g (1 ½ cups) almond meal
160 g (⅔ cup) unsweetened applesauce (look for 100% apple)
1 ½ tbsp (30 g) coconut oil, melted
1 ½ tbsp (30 ml) maple syrup
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
Extra desiccated coconut, for rolling
Method
In a large mixing bowl, combine the desiccated coconut and almond meal.
Add the applesauce, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla. Stir until fully combined and sticky.
Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion the mixture. Roll between your palms into balls.
Roll each ball in extra desiccated coconut to coat.
Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set if preferred.
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week, or freeze for up to one month.
How to Customise Your Snowballs:
Add protein: Mix in 1-2 scoops of vanilla protein powder to make them a nourishing snack.
Flavour twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or crushed freeze-dried raspberries for a Christmas feel.
Gift idea: Package in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for homemade Christmas gifts.
If you love healthy festive recipes like this, explore more hormone-friendly Christmas treats on my blog, or book a free pre-consultation call to learn how personalised nutrition can support your energy, hormones, and wellbeing year-round.
References
Cardoso, D. A., Moreira, A. S., & de Oliveira, G. M. (2017). Coconut oil consumption and cardiovascular risk factors in humans. Nutrition Reviews, 75(9), 737–750. https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nux031
Eyres, L., Eyres, M. F., Chisholm, A., & Brown, R. C. (2016). Coconut oil consumption and cardiovascular risk factors in humans. Nutrition Reviews, 74(4), 267–280. https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuv052
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