There’s a certain joy in discovering hidden treasures in the world of culinary delights—like Vietnamese Snowballs, or Banh Bao Chi. As I was lounging with a cup of tea, the sweet scent of coconut and mung bean wafted through my memories, reigniting my love for these delightful treats. Perfectly chewy, they offer an unexpected burst of flavor with each bite, transporting you to the vibrant markets of Vietnam, where street vendors expertly craft these delicacies.
If you’ve been searching for a dish that will not only impress but also warm your heart, look no further. These little coconut and mung bean balls are surprisingly easy to make and add a touch of cultural flair to your dessert table. With a short list of simple ingredients and a little bit of hands-on effort, you’ll create a treat that’s both visually stunning and utterly delicious. Trust me, once you serve these up, your friends and family will be clamoring for the recipe, and you might just find that fast food becomes a distant memory!
Why are Vietnamese Snowballs so delightful?
Simplicity at its best: The ingredients are few, yet come together to create a delightful treat.
Unique flavor combination: The sweetness of mung bean perfectly balances with the creaminess of coconut.
Versatile treat: Whether for a snack or dessert, these snowballs fit any occasion.
Crowd-pleaser: Watch as your family and friends dive into these bite-sized goodies, eager for more.
Quick preparation: With a straightforward steaming process, these treats can be ready in no time!
For a delightful variation, try adding some candied winter melon to the filling for an extra taste twist.
Vietnamese Snowballs Ingredients
• Perfect for crafting Banh Bao Chi!
For the Coconut Filling
• Desiccated coconut – Adds delightful texture and flavor to your filling.
• Salt – Balances sweetness, enhancing the overall taste.
• White sugar – Sweetens the filling, creating a lovely contrast with the other flavors.
• Water – Needed to moisten and bind the ingredients together.
• Glutinous rice flour – Gives the filling its characteristic chewy consistency.
• Vanilla extract – Introduces a warm, aromatic note to the mix.
• Roasted sesame seeds – Adds a hint of nuttiness for depth of flavor.
• Crushed roasted peanuts – Offers a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the coconut.
For the Mung Bean Filling
• Dried peeled split mung bean – The star ingredient that provides a mild, sweet taste.
• Caster sugar – Ensures a smooth sweetness that blends easily with the mung bean.
• Vanilla extract – Repeats for flavor harmony across both fillings.
• Canola oil – Helps create a smooth, silky texture when blending.
• Candied winter melon (optional) – For a surprising sweetness that will elevate your snowballs.
For the Dough
• Glutinous rice flour – Essential for creating that chewy, delightful texture in the dough.
• White sugar – Sweetens the dough, balancing the flavors of the fillings.
• Salt – Adds flavor depth to the overall dough.
• Warm water – Activates the glutinous rice flour, creating a pliable dough.
• Canola oil – Keeps the dough tender and easy to work with.
For the Coating
• Desiccated coconut – To roll each ball in, providing a delightful exterior.
• Cupcake wrappers – Present your snowballs beautifully while keeping them fresh.
• Black sesame seeds (optional) – A striking garnish that adds visual appeal and flavor.
How to Make Vietnamese Snowballs
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Prepare the Coconut Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine desiccated coconut, salt, white sugar, water, glutinous rice flour, vanilla extract, roasted sesame seeds, and crushed peanuts. Mix until everything is well-blended into a cohesive filling.
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Make the Mung Bean Filling: Soak dried peeled split mung beans in water until softened. Drain, then blend them with caster sugar, vanilla extract, and canola oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in some candied winter melon for extra sweetness!
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Create the Dough: In another bowl, mix together glutinous rice flour, white sugar, and salt. Gradually pour in warm water and canola oil while stirring until a soft, pliable dough forms.
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Assemble the Snowballs: Divide the dough into small pieces. Flatten each piece and place a spoonful of either the coconut or mung bean filling in the center. Gently wrap the dough around the filling and roll it into a smooth ball.
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Coat the Snowballs: Roll each formed ball in desiccated coconut to coat evenly, then place them inside cupcake wrappers. For a special touch, sprinkle with black sesame seeds if desired!
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Steam the Balls: Set up your steamer and steam the snowballs for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fully cooked and beautifully puffed up. The texture should be delightfully chewy and inviting!
Optional: Garnish with extra roasted peanuts for added crunch and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Vietnamese Snowballs
• Soak Mung Beans Properly: Ensure that the dried peeled split mung beans are soaked long enough to soften. This helps achieve a smooth filling without any graininess.
• Dough Consistency Matters: The dough should be soft and pliable, but not sticky. Gradually add warm water to avoid an overly wet mixture that’s hard to work with.
• Even Filling: When wrapping the dough around the filling, make sure it’s even and sealed well to avoid any bursting during steaming.
• Steaming Technique: Steam the balls in a single layer, making sure they aren’t crowded. This ensures even cooking and prevents them from sticking to each other.
• Customize Your Toppings: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings—like black sesame seeds or additional crushed peanuts—to make your Vietnamese Snowballs even more special!
What to Serve with Vietnamese Snowballs?
Transform your dessert experience into a joyful celebration full of flavor and texture!
- Coconut Milk Shake: A creamy, refreshing drink that complements the sweet richness of the snowballs. Enjoy its velvety texture as it balances the chewy dessert.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and acidity, rounding out the meal beautifully with its crisp textures. Think juicy mango and tart pineapple to awaken your taste buds!
- Sweetened Tea: Grab a glass of lightly sweetened jasmine or green tea for a fragrant pairing that enhances the flavors without overpowering them. This soothing drink adds warmth to the moment.
- Mango Sticky Rice: This dessert offers a delightful contrast to the snowballs with its creamy coconut sauce and luscious mango slices. A perfect duo for anyone craving a taste of Asian sweets!
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For those who adore a little indulgence, drizzle warm chocolate over your snowballs for a rich twist. The combination of flavors creates a delectable experience.
- Sesame Cookies: Light and crispy, these cookies echo the nutty sesame notes found in the snowballs while providing a delightful crunch. They’re the perfect sweet snack alongside!
- Lychee Sorbet: A refreshing scoop of lychee sorbet brings a light and fruity contrast that cleanses the palate beautifully. It’s a playful finish that leaves everyone wanting more.
- Chilled Coconut Water: For a hydrating option, serve chilled coconut water alongside your snowballs. Its mild sweetness enhances the coconut flavor, making it a lovely pairing.
Vietnamese Snowballs Variations
Feel free to mix things up with these easy and delightful twists on the classic recipe!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute traditional fillings with coconut cream for richness and enjoy a creamy vibe without the dairy.
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Nut-Free: Replace roasted peanuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely, maintaining flavor while keeping it allergen-friendly.
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Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of pandan extract to the coconut filling for a vibrant green color and a fragrant flavor that’s uniquely tropical.
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Fruity Twist: Integrate finely chopped dried fruits like mango or date into the mung bean filling for a sweet surprise that complements the nutty taste.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the mung bean filling, introducing an exciting heat that contrasts beautifully with sweetness.
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Different Sweeteners: Experiment with maple syrup or honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetness upgrade, enhancing the flavors while keeping it wholesome.
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Textural Variety: Fold in crispy rice cereal into the dough for an interesting crunch, offering a delightful contrast to the chewy interior.
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Decorative Touch: Roll the finished snowballs in crushed freeze-dried fruit powder for a colorful, fruity coating that not only looks good but adds a burst of flavor!
These variations will transform your Vietnamese Snowballs, making each batch uniquely your own!
Make Ahead Options
These Vietnamese Snowballs – Banh Bao Chi are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the coconut and mung bean fillings up to 3 days in advance. Simply store each filling in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The dough can also be prepped ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the snowballs by wrapping the prepared fillings in the dough, rolling them in desiccated coconut, and steaming for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through. This ensures you enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal last-minute preparation!
How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Snowballs
Fridge: Store cooked Vietnamese Snowballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the snowballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen. Then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy thawed snowballs, steam them for about 5-7 minutes until heated through, preserving their delightful chewy texture.
Room Temperature: If serving immediately, keep the snowballs at room temperature for up to 2 hours. They’re best enjoyed fresh!
Vietnamese Snowballs – Banh Bao Chi Recipe FAQs
What type of mung beans should I use?
Absolutely! For this recipe, it’s best to use dried peeled split mung beans. They’re perfect for creating that smooth, sweet filling that pairs beautifully with the coconut. Avoid using whole mung beans, as they won’t yield the same texture or flavor.
How should I store leftover Vietnamese Snowballs?
You can store cooked Vietnamese Snowballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep them sealed well to maintain their delightful texture. If you’re not going to finish them within that timeframe, consider freezing them for later enjoyment!
Can I freeze Vietnamese Snowballs? What’s the best way to do it?
Of course! To freeze your Vietnamese Snowballs, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are fully frozen (this usually takes about an hour). Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag labeled with the date. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy these treats whenever the craving strikes—just remember to steam them back to life before indulging!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Vietnamese Snowballs?
To enjoy your frozen snowballs, simply steam them for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. This will help retain that wonderful chewy texture while bringing back all their delightful flavors. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them rubbery.
Are Vietnamese Snowballs suitable for people with nut allergies?
If you’re making them for someone with nut allergies, it’s best to skip the crushed roasted peanuts in the filling and the garnishing stage. Fortunately, the snowballs will still be delicious without them! Just be sure to double-check all ingredient labels for cross-contamination.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
Very good question! If your dough for the Vietnamese Snowballs is too sticky, don’t worry! Simply add a little more glutinous rice flour, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency. The dough should be soft and pliable without sticking excessively to your hands.
Delicious Vietnamese Snowballs – Banh Bao Chi You’ll Love!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Coconut Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine desiccated coconut, salt, white sugar, water, glutinous rice flour, vanilla extract, roasted sesame seeds, and crushed peanuts. Mix until well-blended.
- Make the Mung Bean Filling: Soak dried peeled split mung beans in water until softened. Drain and blend with caster sugar, vanilla extract, and canola oil until smooth. Fold in candied winter melon if desired.
- Create the Dough: In another bowl, mix glutinous rice flour, white sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water and canola oil while stirring until a soft, pliable dough forms.
- Assemble the Snowballs: Divide the dough into small pieces. Flatten each piece, place a spoonful of filling in the center, wrap the dough around it, and roll into a smooth ball.
- Coat the Snowballs: Roll each formed ball in desiccated coconut and place in cupcake wrappers. Sprinkle with black sesame seeds if desired.
- Steam the Balls: Steam the snowballs for about 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked and puffed up.