If you are looking for a delectable treat that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, the Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These truffles combine the luscious sweetness of maraschino cherries with the tropical flair of shredded coconut and the rich embrace of chocolate, creating a bite-sized indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving something special for a cozy night in or looking to impress guests with a homemade confection, this recipe is sure to win hearts with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these chocolate maraschino cherry coconut truffles lies in their simple ingredient list, yet each component plays a crucial role in crafting their unique flavor and texture.
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut: Adds a chewy, tropical texture and natural sweetness that forms the base of the truffles.
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk: Provides creamy sweetness and helps bind the coconut mixture together perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: Offers a subtle nutty depth that complements the cherries wonderfully.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and balance to the sweetness.
- 24 maraschino cherries, well-drained and dried: Each cherry gives a pop of bright, fruity flavor and fun color center for each truffle.
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips: For coating, their bittersweet profile perfectly offsets the sweet coconut and cherry mixture.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil: Smooths out the melted chocolate for an elegant, glossy finish.
- Extra shredded coconut (optional): For garnish, adding a final touch of texture and an extra hint of tropical charm.
How to Make Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Mixture
Start by combining your shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, almond extract, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Stir the mixture until it becomes sticky and well blended. Then, pop it into the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up—this chill is key so the mixture can hold its shape later on.
Step 2: Shape the Truffles
Once chilled, scoop out about a tablespoon of the coconut mixture and flatten it in your palm. Nestle one dried maraschino cherry in the center, then gently wrap the coconut around it, smoothing the edges to form a perfect ball. Repeat until all 24 truffles are shaped, making sure each cherry is completely enclosed in the coconut mixture.
Step 3: Chill the Truffles
Place your beautifully shaped truffles onto a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate them for about an hour. If you’re pressed for time, freezing them for 30 minutes works just fine. Firm truffles make dipping in chocolate much easier and less messy.
Step 4: Dip in Chocolate
Gently melt the chocolate chips together with the coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second bursts and stirring well after each until silky smooth. Dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, coating it thoroughly. Let the excess chocolate drip back into the bowl before placing the truffle on the tray.
Step 5: Garnish and Set
Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle each truffle with a bit of extra shredded coconut to add texture and a beautiful finish. Once all truffles are dipped and decorated, chill them again for about 20 minutes until the chocolate hardens into that perfect snap-worthy coating.
How to Serve Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of extra shredded coconut is a classic garnish that enhances both flavor and visual appeal. If you want to up the presentation, a tiny drizzle of white chocolate over the dark chocolate coating creates an elegant contrast and a little extra sweetness.
Side Dishes
These truffles pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a rich glass of red wine. If serving at a party, consider accompanying them with fresh berries or a platter of assorted nuts to balance the sweet indulgence with some crunchy bites and fresh fruit notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a gift or special event, place your Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe delicacies into decorative mini cupcake liners or small gift boxes. You can also skewer them on cocktail sticks for a fun, bite-size party treat that guests can grab and go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to one week, making them perfect to prepare in advance for parties or delicious treats throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to store these goodies longer, freezing is a great option. Arrange the truffles in a single layer on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Since these truffles are best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not necessary. If the chocolate coating becomes too firm after refrigeration or freezing, simply leave the truffles at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to soften the chocolate just slightly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries have more moisture and won’t hold up as well inside the truffles, which could cause the coconut mixture to become soggy. Maraschino cherries are ideal because they are sweet, firm, and have a lower moisture content.
Is there a substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
You could try evaporated milk with additional sugar, but that will affect the texture and sweetness. Sweetened condensed milk is key for that creamy, sticky consistency that binds the coconut and flavors perfectly.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, you can substitute sweetened condensed coconut milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Make sure your maraschino cherries are also free from animal-derived ingredients, as some brands use gelatin.
How can I avoid the chocolate coating from melting too quickly?
Chill the truffles thoroughly before dipping, and let the chocolate set completely in the refrigerator. Also, adding coconut oil helps the chocolate harden with a nice sheen and more stability at room temperature.
Can I add nuts or other flavors to the truffle mixture?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like almonds or pecans add crunch and depth. You can also experiment with coconut rum or even a pinch of cinnamon to personalize this Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly satisfying about making and sharing these Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe treats. They are simple yet sophisticated, perfect for gifting or savoring yourself. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it might just become your new go-to for sweet celebrations and cozy moments alike. Happy truffle-making!
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Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles are a decadent treat that combines the tropical flavor of coconut with the rich taste of dark chocolate and sweet maraschino cherries. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, these no-bake truffles are easy to prepare, featuring a creamy coconut filling encasing a cherry, all dipped in silky melted chocolate and garnished with extra shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Filling 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
Coating Ingredients
- 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 sweetened shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until the mixture becomes sticky and well-combined. Place the bowl in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
- Shape the Truffles: Once chilled, take about 1 tablespoon of the coconut mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a dried maraschino cherry in the center, and carefully wrap the coconut mixture around the cherry to form a smooth, round ball. Repeat this process to make 24 truffles.
- Chill the Truffles: Arrange the shaped truffles on a parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate the tray for 1 hour to firm the truffles, or alternatively, freeze them for 30 minutes for a faster setting.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Coat the Truffles: Dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the truffle back onto the parchment-lined tray.
- Garnish and Set: Before the chocolate coating sets, sprinkle the truffles with additional shredded coconut for decoration. Once all truffles are coated and garnished, return them to the refrigerator and chill for about 20 minutes or until the chocolate is firm.
Notes
- Make sure to thoroughly dry the maraschino cherries with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from affecting the coconut mixture’s consistency.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a coconut milk-based condensed milk alternative.
- The almond and vanilla extracts can be adjusted or combined according to your preference for a more pronounced flavor.
- Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For a festive touch, use colored coconut flakes or drizzle with white chocolate after coating.
