Havregrynskugler, or oat balls, are a beloved Danish treat that’s both simple and delicious. These small, chocolatey bites are a favourite for all ages and are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a festive celebration, a quick snack, or something sweet to enjoy with coffee, Havregrynskugler always hit the spot.
What makes Havregrynskugler so special is their simplicity. They don’t require baking, and the ingredients are easy to find—oats, cocoa powder, butter, and sugar form the base of the recipe. Sometimes, a splash of coffee or vanilla is added for extra flavour. Once mixed, the sticky dough is rolled into small balls and coated with toppings like coconut flakes, sprinkles, or crushed nuts.
These treats are especially popular during Christmas in Denmark. Families gather in the kitchen, turning the preparation into a fun and festive activity. Children love rolling the balls and decorating them with their favourite toppings, making it a cherished tradition. However, Havregrynskugler aren’t just for the holidays—they’re enjoyed year-round as a quick and satisfying snack.
Another reason these treats are so loved is how adaptable they are. While the classic recipe is simple and tasty, there’s plenty of room for creativity. Some people add a touch of liquor for a grown-up twist, while others make healthier versions by using honey instead of sugar or adding dried fruits.
Havregrynskugler aren’t just a dessert—they’re a symbol of togetherness. Making them often involves family and friends working together, adding their own unique touches to the recipe. It’s not just about the end result but the memories made along the way.
If you’re looking for an easy, no-bake treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, give Havregrynskugler a try. These sweet, chocolatey oat balls might just become your new favourite snack!
Danish Havregrynskugler
Havregrynskugler, or oat balls, are a traditional Danish no-bake treat loved for their rich chocolate flavour and chewy texture. Often made during the holidays but enjoyed year-round, they are easy to prepare with simple ingredients. These versatile snacks can be customised with various coatings and are a delightful activity for families to make together.
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Servings: 20 Balls
Calories: 99kcal
Ingredients
- 200 g rolled oats
- 100 g unsalted butter softened
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 50 g cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp coffee strong or milk optional
- 1 tsp vanilla extract optional
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar and cocoa powder. Mix until smooth.100 g unsalted butter, 100 g granulated sugar, 50 g cocoa powder
- Add the oats to the mixture and stir until well combined. If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon or two of coffee or milk for better consistency. Mix in the vanilla extract if desired.200 g rolled oats, 2 tbsp coffee, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Using your hands, roll small portions of the mixture into balls about 2–3cm in diameter.
- Roll each ball in your chosen coating, such as coconut, sprinkles, or nuts, ensuring they are evenly covered.coconut, Chocolate, nuts
- Place the finished balls on a tray lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Notes
Tips :
– Store Havregrynskugler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
– For a richer flavour, use high-quality cocoa powder.
– Get creative with coatings to match the season or occasion!
Nutrition
Calories: 99kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 11mg | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 77mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 125IU | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 1mg
8 comments
Such an easy recipe that my children ‘helped’. We used chocolate flakes as the covering and they were gorgeous but very messy to make.
I’m not much of a baker, so this recipe was perfect for me. No oven needed, just a few ingredients and a little bit of time. I rolled mine in chocolate sprinkles, and they were divine
The coconut coating was my personal favourite, but I’ll definitely try other toppings next time. Highly recommend
They’re the perfect balance of chocolatey and chewy, and they always disappear quickly. Plus, they’re so easy to make—it’s a win-win
My kids love helping me roll the balls and choosing their favourite toppings.
These little oat balls bring back so many childhood memories. My grandmother used to make them every Christmas, and now I’ve started making them for my own family.
They’re so rich and chocolatey but not overly sweet. A classic Danish treat that never disappoints
I love how versatile Havregrynskugler are. I swapped the sugar for honey and added a bit of dried cranberries, and they turned out amazing