Chokladboll

The Oatmeal Ball, also known as the Chocolate Ball, is a cherished treat in Denmark and Sweden. Made from a straightforward blend of oatmeal, sugar, cocoa, vanilla sugar, butter, and sometimes coffee, these delightful confections are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Once the ingredients are combined into a compact mixture, they're shaped into balls and coated with nib sugar, shredded coconut, or sprinkles before being chilled. These treats are especially popular at children's parties and as homemade goodies.

The origins of the Oatmeal Ball date back to World War II in Denmark when wheat flour was scarce. A recipe for "havregrynskugle" appeared in a booklet titled "Ingenuity in a Time of Crisis." In Sweden, these treats were traditionally called "negerboll" (negro ball), but due to the term's offensive connotations, it has been replaced with "chokladboll" (chocolate ball). When made with coconut, they are referred to as "kokosboll" (coconut ball). The term "negerboll" has been a topic of media debate, leading to its removal from official glossaries.

There was a notable incident in Sweden where a bakery owner faced a complaint to the Swedish Ombudsman against Ethnic Discrimination for using the term "negerboll" on a sign in her shop. The case was dismissed because the complainant did not feel personally offended. It's also worth mentioning that in Denmark, the term "negerbolle" refers to a different confection, the flødebolle.