The No-Bake, Irresistibly Sweet Canadian Treat You’ll Keep Coming Back To
Looking for a fun, quick, no-bake dessert that’s as quirky as it is delicious? Try these Moose Farts—a Canadian classic that’s chewy, chocolatey, and perfectly bite-sized.
Introduction
If the name makes you chuckle, just wait until you try them. Moose Farts may sound silly, but these decadent little no-bake cookie balls are a beloved treat in many Canadian households—and for good reason. Packed with sweetened condensed milk, coconut, graham cracker crumbs, and chocolate chips, they’re easy to make and even easier to eat.
This recipe is ideal for the holidays, bake sales, potlucks, or simply as a sweet indulgence during your week. The prep is fast, the ingredients are simple, and you don’t even need to turn on your oven. Plus, the playful name makes them a conversation starter at any event.
Let’s dive into how you can whip up a batch of these rich, chewy, no-bake treats.
Tools Needed, Servings, and Cooking Time
Tools You’ll Need:
- Large mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet or tray
- Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)
- Small cookie scoop or tablespoon (for even portions)
Servings:
- Makes about 40 cookie balls
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Chill Time:
- 1 hour initial chill
- 20–30 minutes after shaping
Total Time:
- 1 hour 45 minutes (includes chilling)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz in the US or 300 ml in Canada) sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups dried coconut (fine or medium cut works best)
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (plus extra for rolling)
- 1½ cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Start by combining the melted butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. This sweet, creamy base helps bind the dry ingredients and gives the cookie balls their signature chewy texture.
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
Next, stir in the graham cracker crumbs, dried coconut, and chocolate chips. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix everything together until evenly distributed. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps firm up the dough, making it easier to roll into balls later.
Step 4: Form the Cookie Balls
Once chilled, scoop out about 1¼-inch portions of the mixture. Roll them between your hands to form small balls. Because they’re rich and dense, keeping them small makes for a more enjoyable snack-sized treat.
Step 5: Coat with Extra Graham Cracker Crumbs
Pour a bit of extra graham cracker crumbs into a shallow bowl or dish. Roll each ball in the crumbs to coat the outside lightly. This not only adds a nice finish but also helps keep them from sticking together during storage.
Step 6: Final Chill
Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator again for 20 to 30 minutes until firm.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once fully set, your Moose Farts are ready to be enjoyed. Serve them chilled or at room temperature for a soft, chewy texture.
Tips for Recipe Success
- Use quality ingredients – Since this is a no-bake recipe, the flavors of each component come through clearly. Use a good-quality sweetened condensed milk and real vanilla extract for the best results.
- Don’t skip chilling – Chilling the mixture before shaping is crucial. The butter and condensed milk need time to firm up to make rolling manageable.
- Customize the size – Use a small cookie scoop to keep your portions consistent. Smaller balls make the richness more manageable and extend your batch count.
- Get creative with mix-ins – Feel free to swap in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried cranberries for variety.
- Storage matters – Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge so they stay firm and fresh. Layer parchment between rows to avoid sticking.
Serving and Storage Tips
How to Serve:
- Serve cold or at room temperature as a bite-sized dessert or snack.
- Perfect with coffee, hot cocoa, or milk.
- Great for holiday cookie trays, potlucks, bake sales, and school lunches.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerator: Store in a sealed container for up to 1 week. Layer parchment paper between rows to prevent sticking.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
- Room temperature: Can be kept at room temp for a few hours for serving but best stored cold long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are they called Moose Farts?
The name is meant to be humorous and quirky—it’s part of the recipe’s charm! It’s believed to have originated in Canadian kitchens as a playful name for these rich, chewy no-bake cookies. Despite the funny name, they’re always a hit.
2. Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut if you prefer less sweetness. However, the texture may be slightly drier, so you can adjust by adding a little extra condensed milk if needed.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs in place of regular ones. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
4. Can I make them vegan?
You can make a vegan version by using vegan sweetened condensed milk, plant-based butter, and dairy-free chocolate chips. The taste will be slightly different, but still delicious.
5. How long do Moose Farts last in the fridge?
They can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator, or 3 months in the freezer. Make sure they’re stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness and avoid absorbing fridge odors.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting in the kitchen, Moose Farts are an easy, delicious way to impress without stress. This no-bake recipe is rich, sweet, and packed with chewy texture and chocolatey flavor—all wrapped up in a fun little treat that brings joy with every bite.
With minimal prep and no oven required, these cookie balls are perfect for holidays, lazy weekends, or whenever you want to whip up a batch of something sweet without the fuss. And let’s face it—sharing a treat with a name like Moose Farts guarantees some laughs and great conversation.
So go ahead and try this charming Canadian favorite. You might just find it becomes a staple in your dessert rotation. Happy no-baking!
