Almond Joy Balls

I made these for David's dad, Martin, at his request. I've made them before, but never blogged about them since I was sticking to just cupcakes at the time. These are so easy to make, and taste just like the real thing!

Firming up in the fridge before coating in chocolate.

Packed up and ready to go!

Almond Joy Balls (adapted from chocolate-candy-mall.com)

Ingredients:
5 oz sweetened condensed milk
1 t vanilla
2 C powdered sugar
14 oz shredded or flaked coconut
24 oz semisweet chips
1 cup whole dry roasted almonds

Directions:

1. Blend the condensed milk and the vanilla. Add the powdered sugar a little at a time until smooth. 
2. Stir in the coconut. The mixture should be firm. 
3. Roll the mixture into ping-pong-sized balls, either topping each with an almond or inserting an almond into the center. Refrigerate until firm.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave (my preferred method) or in a double boiler. If using the microwave, be sure to use a glass microwave-safe bowl and check every 30 seconds so you don't burn the chocolate. You cannot save burnt chocolate.  
5. Remove the coconut mixture from the refrigerator. 
6. Set each coconut ball onto a fork and dip it into the chocolate. Tap the fork against the side of the pan or bowl to remove any excess chocolate. Place on waxed paper lined tray or wire rack above wax paper to set. Optional: top with sprinkling of chocolate jimmies.