Coconut Mango Bliss Balls

Sinking your teeth into a Coconut Mango Bliss Ball is like summoning the feeling of a sunny beach day right at home. This recipe delivers chewy bites layered with tropical mango and creamy coconut, made for sharing or savoring on your own. The combination of sticky glutinous rice, lush coconut milk, and the bright tang of fresh mango is one that never fails to transport me—every time I make these, my kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma of the tropics.

I tried these for the first time to impress my little cousins on a summer visit and before I knew it grown ups were requesting seconds too This treat quickly found its way into my rotation for potlucks and after dinner desserts

Ingredients

• Glutinous rice flour: gives the dough its signature chewy texture Choose a very fine flour for the silkiest result
• Coconut milk: adds richness and an unmistakable tropical aroma Full fat cans yield the creamiest dough
• Granulated sugar: sweetens the dough Adjust to your taste but keep enough to balance the salt and tangy mango
• Salt: brightens all the flavors in the dough A tiny pinch is all you need so use a fine sea salt if possible
• Water: helps mix and loosen the dough Look for cold filtered water if your tap has a strong taste
• Mango puree: provides a sunny burst of flavor Use perfectly ripe mangoes for a velvety smooth center
• Shredded desiccated coconut: creates a snowy outer layer Choose an unsweetened version so the bliss balls are not cloying

Instructions

Make the Dough:

Combine glutinous rice flour granulated sugar and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl Stir gently to evenly distribute the dry ingredients

Add Wet Ingredients:

Slowly pour in coconut milk and water Mix constantly until you get a silky lump free batter It should have no streaks and feel thick but pourable

Steam the Dough:

Scrape the mixture into a heatproof dish and smooth the surface Steam over medium heat for twenty to twenty five minutes The dough should look translucent and fully set

Prepare Mango Center:

While the dough steams spoon small rounds of mango puree onto a plate and pop into the freezer for fifteen minutes This firms up the puree so it is easier to work with

Shape Bliss Balls:

When the dough is cool enough to handle lightly oil your hands Scoop a tablespoon of dough flatten into a disc and place a piece of frozen mango puree at the center Carefully enclose the filling and roll into a smooth ball

Coat and Chill:

Drop each ball into shredded coconut and roll until fully coated Arrange on a plate then chill in the refrigerator for at least fifteen minutes so the centers become perfectly firm and refreshing

My favorite thing about this dessert is the mango center which always surprises a first time taster with its pop of brightness Growing up my aunt would sneak in pieces of fruit from her backyard trees and each bite felt like getting a secret treat just for me

Storage Tips

These bliss balls keep well for three days in the refrigerator stored in a covered container For longer storage freeze in a single layer and transfer to a bag when fully frozen Let thaw at room temp for ten minutes before enjoying If they get too firm from the fridge just let them sit out briefly for that perfect chewy bite

Ingredient Substitutions

Fresh mango is ideal but frozen mango puree works if mangos are out of season Swap coconut milk with other plant based milks for subtle flavor changes Try dusting in toasted coconut for an extra nutty crunch If you want to dial back sweetness use less sugar and up the mango content

Serving Suggestions

Serve these as a light finish to a spicy meal or pack them as mouthwatering lunchbox surprises For a party platter nestle the balls in mini cupcake liners and sprinkle with extra coconut flakes I also love pairing them with iced green tea for a truly refreshing treat

Cultural Inspiration

This recipe draws from Southeast Asian sweets like mochi and sticky rice dumplings which often combine chewy textures with pops of fruit While I did not grow up with these exact bliss balls playing with glutinous rice flour was a favorite rainy day project My elders always emphasized patience with the dough it is worth the wait

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer swap in fresh passionfruit or pineapple for the center Try a little lime zest in the dough for a sunny citrus note For a fall flavor twist blend roasted pumpkin puree with cinnamon for the filling

Success Stories

The first time I served these at a family reunion every generation loved them from toddlers to grandparents Several friends have texted me for this recipe after tasting just one ball so now it appears at birthdays and backyard BBQs on request

Freezer Meal Conversion

Perfect for prepping ahead Shape and coat the bliss balls then freeze in a single layer until firm Store in an airtight bag or container Enjoy straight from the freezer for a cool snack or let stand a few minutes to soften

The fun of making these is almost as good as eating them Kids love helping with the coating and every ball comes out just a little bit different No matter how you shape them the flavor always delivers a burst of sunshine on any gray afternoon

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use canned mango puree instead of fresh?

Yes, canned mango puree works as a convenient alternative, though fresh mango provides a brighter flavor.

→ How do I keep the dough from sticking to my hands?

Lightly greasing your hands with oil or water helps prevent the dough from sticking as you form the balls.

→ Is glutinous rice flour the same as regular rice flour?

No, glutinous rice flour gives the dough its chewy texture, while regular rice flour results in a different consistency.

→ Can these bliss balls be made ahead of time?

Yes, store the chilled bliss balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for best freshness.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness of the dough?

Absolutely, feel free to add more or less sugar according to your taste preferences before steaming the dough.

→ Are these bliss balls suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze them in a sealed container and thaw before serving for enhanced convenience.