Description
These Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles are luscious bite-sized treats combining sweet shredded coconut, creamy condensed milk, and maraschino cherries, all enrobed in a smooth layer of melted chocolate. Perfect for parties or a delightful homemade dessert, these truffles offer a rich, tropical flavor with a satisfying texture and a visually appealing garnish of shredded coconut.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 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 the Coconut Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until the mixture becomes sticky and well blended. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up the mixture, which will make it easier to handle.
- Form Truffles with Cherries: Once the mixture is chilled, scoop about 1 tablespoon of it and flatten in your palm. Place a dried, well-drained maraschino cherry in the center. Carefully wrap the coconut mixture around the cherry to form a smooth, round ball. Repeat this process until all 24 truffles are formed.
- Chill or Freeze the Shaped Truffles: Place the formed truffles on a tray lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate them for 1 hour or freeze for 30 minutes to ensure they are firm and ready to dip into chocolate.
- Melt the Chocolate and Dip the Truffles: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips together with the coconut oil by heating in 30-second increments. Stir well between each heating session until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted. Dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate to coat completely. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before setting the truffle back on the parchment-lined tray.
- Garnish and Set the Chocolate: Immediately after dipping, sprinkle each truffle with extra shredded coconut if desired, before the chocolate sets. Once all truffles are coated and garnished, chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes until the chocolate hardens completely.
Notes
- Make sure the maraschino cherries are well-drained and patted dry to avoid excess moisture that might affect the texture of the truffles.
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet if preferred.
- Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator; consume within one week for best freshness.
- If coconut oil is unavailable, you can substitute with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil for melting chocolate.
- These truffles can be frozen for longer storage; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
