Description
Delight in these decadent Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles, combining sweet shredded coconut, luscious maraschino cherries, and rich chocolate. Perfectly bite-sized, these no-bake treats deliver a delightful mix of flavors and textures, ideal for holiday gifting or an elegant dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Truffle Mixture
- 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 sweetened shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is sticky and well blended. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Shape Truffles: After chilling, scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the coconut mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a dried maraschino cherry in the center, then wrap and mold the coconut mixture around the cherry to shape a smooth ball. Repeat the process to make 24 truffles.
- Chill Truffles: Place the formed truffles on a parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate for 1 hour or alternatively freeze for 30 minutes until they are firm and hold their shape.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring well between each session until the chocolate mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Dip and Coat Truffles: Dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is completely coated. Let excess chocolate drip off, then place the dipped truffles back onto the parchment-lined tray.
- Garnish and Set: Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle the dipped truffles with additional shredded coconut if desired. Chill the truffles for about 20 minutes or until the chocolate coating is firm and set.
Notes
- Ensure maraschino cherries are well dried to prevent the coconut mixture from becoming too wet.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for richer flavor and smoother coating.
- Truffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For faster setting, freezing the coated truffles for 10-15 minutes is effective.
- Optional garnish with shredded coconut adds extra texture and visual appeal.
