Hot Balls is a time-based dessert creation game where players are tasked with crafting ice cream and cookies to meet customer orders. Each customer requests a specific combination of cookie type, ice cream, and toppings. Players must quickly bake the appropriate cookie and top it with the correct ice cream and toppings to fulfill the order.

The game features a variety of cookie types, ice creams, and toppings, each offering different combinations for the player to work with. The speed of serving the customers directly influences the tips received. The faster the player serves, the greater the tip, which can help progress further in the game. The challenge lies in preparing and assembling the right desserts in a timely manner to satisfy the customers' cravings.