These playful no-bake treats, affectionately known as “Moose Farts,” are a Canadian delight that blend chocolate, coconut, and graham cracker crumbs into chewy, bite-sized magic. Don’t let the name fool you—once you take a bite, you’ll understand why these are an instant crowd favorite. They’re rich, sweet, and just the right amount of nostalgic, reminding many of classic holiday confections and snowy winter kitchens.
Perfect for potlucks, holiday cookie trays, or just a fun afternoon in the kitchen with kids, these no-bake goodies are not only easy to make but also a blast to serve. You can customize them with different types of chocolate or roll them in crushed nuts or cocoa powder instead of graham crumbs. Whether you’re making them to share or to hoard for your own late-night snacking, they’re guaranteed to get a laugh—and a request for seconds.
Full Recipe:
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1 1/2 cups (255g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
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1 can (300ml) sweetened condensed milk
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1 1/2 cups (120g) dried unsweetened shredded coconut
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1 1/2 cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs
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1/4 cup (57g) melted unsalted butter
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1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract
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1/2 cup (60g) additional graham cracker crumbs (for coating)
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, stir together melted butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Add in graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chocolate chips. Mix thoroughly until fully combined.
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Cover and chill mixture in the fridge for 1 hour, or freeze for 20 minutes until firm enough to roll.
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Use your hands to roll approximately 1¼ inch balls from the mixture.
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Roll each ball in the extra graham cracker crumbs for coating.
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Place on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate until fully set, about 30-60 minutes.
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 24
The Story Behind Moose Farts
Moose Farts may sound like a cheeky joke at first, but these no-bake treats have earned a beloved spot in many Canadian and Northern U.S. households. Their whimsical name is often a conversation starter, followed by delighted surprise when guests realize just how delicious they are. This dish is a perfect example of how food can carry humor, tradition, and indulgence all at once.
The origins of Moose Farts aren’t well-documented in culinary history, but they likely trace back to small-town kitchen creativity—a place where resourceful home cooks mixed pantry staples into easy, no-fuss desserts that would become family favorites. With ingredients like graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and shredded coconut, Moose Farts require no oven time and are ideal for both kids and adults. Their simplicity, combined with their unique name, has turned them into a viral favorite over time.
Why Moose Farts Are the Ultimate No-Bake Treat
What sets Moose Farts apart from other no-bake cookies is their perfect texture and nostalgic flavor profile. The mix of creamy condensed milk, chewy coconut, crunchy graham crackers, and melty chocolate makes every bite rich and satisfying. The graham cracker crumb coating not only keeps your hands clean but also adds an extra layer of flavor and bite.
They are also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday cookie exchange, looking for a quick school snack, or simply craving something sweet with minimal prep, Moose Farts tick all the boxes. They are also ideal for hot weather or last-minute dessert needs when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
Beyond practicality, their name adds a layer of fun that appeals to kids and grown-ups alike. These cookies make for great ice-breakers at parties or quirky additions to gift boxes. The humor they carry doesn’t detract from their appeal—it only enhances the experience of enjoying them.
Cultural Relevance and Canadian Roots
Though there’s no formal “origin story,” Moose Farts are generally associated with Canadian culinary humor. Much like butter tarts or Nanaimo bars, Moose Farts represent that endearing home-style approach to desserts that doesn’t take itself too seriously. In regions where winter stretches for months and warmth is found in hearty, indulgent food, it’s no wonder such recipes have thrived.
Moose are iconic Canadian wildlife, symbolizing the rugged wilderness and natural beauty of the North. Naming a dessert after them—albeit humorously—is a very Canadian thing to do. It reflects a playful spirit and an ability to find joy in the little things, including dessert names.
Many Canadian home cooks pass this recipe down through generations. It’s not uncommon to find it scribbled on recipe cards or bookmarked in family cookbooks. The cookies may change slightly depending on what’s in the pantry—some use white chocolate chips or add nuts—but the base concept remains the same.
Perfect for Gifting and Entertaining
Because Moose Farts can be made ahead and refrigerated, they make excellent edible gifts. They travel well, hold their shape, and don’t require reheating. When packed into a festive tin or cellophane bag, they become a thoughtful homemade present. Their funny name also makes them a popular choice for gag gifts or humorous birthday party contributions.
Entertaining with Moose Farts is also a breeze. They can be served straight from the fridge or brought to room temperature for a softer texture. At parties, they disappear quickly, often with people asking, “What did you call these again?” It’s a dish that gives people something to talk about, well beyond just taste.
Kid-Friendly and Easy for Beginners
Moose Farts are especially great for getting children involved in the kitchen. Since there’s no oven involved, they are safer for little hands. Kids can help mix the dough, roll the balls, and coat them in graham cracker crumbs. They’ll love the tactile experience—and of course, the giggles that come from saying the name.
The recipe is also beginner-friendly, requiring no fancy tools or techniques. Even if you’ve never made a dessert in your life, Moose Farts will come together quickly and easily. The ingredients are forgiving, and the only real requirement is chilling time to help the mixture firm up. This makes it ideal for busy families, beginner bakers, or anyone looking to whip up a treat without stress.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about Moose Farts is how adaptable the recipe is. Don’t have chocolate chips? Try using chopped nuts, raisins, or even mini marshmallows. Want to change the flavor profile? Swap out vanilla extract for almond or maple. For a richer version, you can use dark chocolate chips or drizzle the finished balls with melted chocolate.
The coating can also be customized. While graham cracker crumbs are traditional, some people prefer rolling their balls in shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or even finely chopped nuts for a different finish. You could also add a touch of sea salt on top for that sweet-salty combo.
For a grown-up twist, a splash of Irish cream or espresso powder can bring an extra layer of flavor. Some even roll them in powdered sugar to mimic snowballs—perfect for holiday-themed treats.
Storage and Make-Ahead Convenience
Moose Farts are incredibly easy to store. Once rolled and coated, they can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes them an ideal prep-ahead option for parties or holiday baking. They also freeze well—just layer them with parchment paper and store in a sealed container. When you’re ready to serve, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Thanks to their stable ingredients and chill-and-serve nature, they’re an excellent option for people who like to have emergency treats on hand. Just a few minutes of rolling, and you’ve got a full batch ready to go.
The Joy of a Funny Name
Let’s face it—half the fun of this treat is the name. “Moose Farts” might not sound elegant, but that’s exactly why people love it. It brings laughter and lightheartedness to the table, especially in settings where food often becomes overly formal. Whether it’s a kids’ birthday party or a grown-up holiday gathering, announcing a tray of Moose Farts never fails to raise eyebrows—and smiles.
The playful name is also a great icebreaker, particularly in new groups. If you’re bringing a dish to a potluck where you don’t know many people, serving Moose Farts is practically guaranteed to start conversations.
Conclusion: A Treat Worth Remembering
Moose Farts may be a novelty at first glance, but their charm goes far beyond the name. They’re quick, fun, delicious, and endlessly adaptable—a true testament to what makes home cooking special. With rich textures, sweet flavors, and the kind of humor that brightens any room, they’re more than just a no-bake dessert. They’re a joyful experience from the first chuckle to the last bite.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone just learning their way around the kitchen, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Easy enough for weekdays, special enough for holidays, and funny enough to be unforgettable—Moose Farts are a delightful reminder that great food doesn’t have to be serious. It just has to make people happy.