The binding ingredient is hydrogenated coconut oil (such as the brand Copha), which is solid at room temperature.

The recipe is relatively easy requiring only vegetable shortening, icing sugar, cocoa, desiccated coconut and Rice Bubbles (or Coco Pops).

The hydrogenated oil is melted and combined with the dry ingredients and portions of the mixture are placed in cupcake pans to set, usually in the refrigerator.

[citation needed] Variations include adding raisins, chocolate chips, mini-marshmallows, or peanut butter.

Alternatives to Rice Bubbles include Corn Flakes and crispy fried noodles.