Description
Deliciously rich and easy-to-make Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles combine sweet shredded coconut, creamy condensed milk, and a burst of cherry, all coated in luscious melted chocolate. Perfect as a decadent homemade treat or festive gift.
Ingredients
Scale
Truffle Base
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 24 maraschino cherries, well-drained and dried
Chocolate Coating
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Extra shredded coconut, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Coconut Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes sticky and well combined. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
- Form Truffles: After chilling, take about 1 tablespoon of the coconut mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place one dried maraschino cherry in the center, then carefully wrap the coconut mixture around the cherry to form a smooth ball. Repeat this process until all 24 truffles are formed.
- Chill Truffles: Arrange the shaped truffles on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 1 hour to solidify, or place them in the freezer for 30 minutes if you prefer a faster set.
- Melt Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring between each session, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Coat Truffles: Dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing each truffle back on the parchment-lined tray.
- Decorate and Set: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the truffles with extra shredded coconut for garnish. Once all truffles are coated and decorated, chill them in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes or until the chocolate is firm.
Notes
- Make sure to dry the maraschino cherries thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the truffles.
- Use good quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Coconut oil helps the chocolate coating set with a smooth finish and adds subtle coconut flavor.
- Truffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For a slightly different flavor, try adding a splash of rum or cherry liqueur to the coconut mixture.
