Description
Delight in these decadent Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles, featuring a luscious blend of sweetened shredded coconut and condensed milk surrounding a juicy maraschino cherry, all dipped in rich chocolate and garnished with extra coconut. Perfect as an elegant party treat or a special homemade 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
Garnish
- 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 them well until the mixture becomes cohesive and sticky. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
- Form Truffle Balls: After chilling, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the coconut mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a dried maraschino cherry in the center, then carefully wrap the coconut mixture around the cherry to create a smooth ball. Repeat the process until all 24 truffles are formed.
- Chill the Truffles: Arrange the shaped truffles on a parchment-lined tray and place them in the refrigerator for 1 hour, or alternatively freeze for 30 minutes, until they are firm to the touch.
- Melt the Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well in between, until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Dip the Truffles: Using a fork or dipping tool, coat each chilled truffle completely with the melted chocolate. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back onto the lined tray.
- Add Garnish and Set: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the truffles with extra shredded coconut if desired. Once all truffles are dipped and decorated, refrigerate again for about 20 minutes until the chocolate coating is fully set and firm.
Notes
- Make sure the maraschino cherries are well-drained and dried to prevent excess moisture from softening the truffles.
- Use good quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Coconut oil helps the chocolate coating stay smooth and shiny after melting.
- These truffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container.
- Freezing the truffles before dipping helps them hold their shape better during the chocolate coating step.
