If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that both dazzles the eye and delights every taste bud, look no further than the Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe. These little bites of heaven combine lush shredded coconut, creamy condensed milk, and bright, juicy maraschino cherries all wrapped up in a smooth chocolate coating. Each truffle is a perfect balance of chewy, creamy, fruity, and chocolaty flavors that come together in a truly irresistible dessert experience you’ll want to share with friends or savor all on your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe calls for simple, straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in creating texture, flavor, and visual appeal. The shredded coconut adds chewiness and tropical flair, while the sweetened condensed milk lends a luscious creaminess. Maraschino cherries bring a pop of color and fruity sweetness, and the chocolate coating ties everything together with a silky finish.
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut: Provides the chewy, tropical base that’s the heart of the truffle.
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk: Adds a rich, creamy sweetness that binds the coconut and highlights its flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: Offers a subtle nutty accent that deepens the flavor complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances the natural sweetness of the ingredients.
- 24 maraschino cherries, well-drained and dried: These give bursts of fruity juiciness and vibrant red color inside each truffle.
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips: For coating the truffles in a smooth, decadent chocolate shell.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil: Helps melt the chocolate perfectly for dipping and creates a glossy finish.
- Extra shredded coconut, for garnish (optional): Adds an attractive snowy touch and an extra layer of coconut flavor.
How to Make Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Mixture
Start by combining the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, almond extract, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Stir everything together until the mixture is sticky and well combined, making sure that every bit of coconut is luxuriously coated. Pop this bowl into the fridge for 30 minutes so the mixture firms up slightly, making it easier to shape later on.
Step 2: Shape the Truffles Around Cherries
Once chilled, scoop out about a tablespoon of the coconut mixture and flatten it in your palm. Nestle a dried maraschino cherry right in the center, then gently wrap the coconut around the cherry to form a smooth, round ball. The cherry should be nicely enclosed to keep all that juicy sweetness inside. Repeat this step until all 24 truffles are formed and ready for their cooling time.
Step 3: Chill or Freeze the Shaped Truffles
Line a tray with parchment paper and place your formed truffles on it. For the best texture, refrigerate them for about 1 hour until they are firm. If you’re short on time, freezing the truffles for 30 minutes will do the trick just as well. This step is essential before dipping because it prevents the coconut centers from falling apart.
Step 4: Dip Truffles in Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips together with the coconut oil in 30-second bursts, stirring well in between until you get a smooth, glossy mixture. Using a fork or dipping tool, coat each chilled truffle completely in the melted chocolate. Let any excess drip off, then place the coated truffle back onto the parchment-lined tray for the next step.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
While the chocolate is still wet, lightly sprinkle the tops of your truffles with extra shredded coconut for that elegant finishing touch. After all the truffles are dipped and decorated, place the tray back in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes until the chocolate hardens completely, locking in all those luscious layers.
How to Serve Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a bit of extra shredded coconut on top adds a lovely texture and a snowy look that’s perfect for gifting or entertaining. You can also dust with a pinch of cocoa powder or chopped nuts for additional flair and flavor variation.
Side Dishes
These truffles shine on their own, but pairing them with a cup of strong coffee, rich espresso, or even a glass of dessert wine can elevate your tasting experience. Light fruit salads or fresh berries complement the coconut-cherry flavor beautifully without overpowering the truffles.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve these truffles in pretty mini cupcake liners or arrange them on a decorative platter with edible flowers for a delightful presentation. Wrapping each truffle in colorful foil or cellophane makes for an adorable homemade gift that anyone would cherish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This ensures they stay fresh, firm, and maintain that perfect balance of creamy coconut and melty chocolate every time you reach for one.
Freezing
These truffles freeze wonderfully when stored in a single layer inside an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving to preserve their texture and luscious flavor.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary, but if the chocolate coating loses its shine or becomes too firm, leaving the truffles at room temperature for 15–20 minutes softens the chocolate gently without any need for microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries are delicious but have more moisture, which can affect the texture of the truffles. If you want to use fresh, pit and dry them thoroughly beforehand and consider slightly reducing the condensed milk to keep the mixture from becoming too wet.
Is there a dairy-free version of this Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe?
Absolutely! Swap the sweetened condensed milk for a dairy-free condensed milk alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips. The coconut oil keeps the chocolate coating smooth and shiny, perfect for a vegan or dairy-free treat.
Why is it important to chill the coconut mixture before shaping the truffles?
Chilling firms up the coconut mixture, making it easier to handle and shape around the cherries. Without chilling, the mixture can be too sticky and soft, causing the truffles to fall apart during dipping.
Can I make these truffles ahead of time for a party?
Yes! These truffles hold up well in the fridge for a week and can be frozen for longer storage. Just remember to dip them in chocolate shortly before your event for the freshest look and best texture.
What type of chocolate works best for coating these truffles?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips create a rich flavor contrast to the sweet coconut and cherries. However, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter coating. Adding coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly and harden with a beautiful shine.
Final Thoughts
Diving into this Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe is like a mini-vacation for your taste buds—each bite is bursting with texture and layered flavors that feel both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re making these truffles for a special occasion or just because, they’re sure to win hearts and vanish fast. Give it a try, and trust me, these truffles will become your go-to treat to impress and satisfy all at once!
Print
Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 truffles
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles are a delightful treat combining the tropical flavor of sweetened shredded coconut with maraschino cherries, all enrobed in smooth semi-sweet or dark chocolate. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, these no-bake truffles are easy to make and offer a rich, creamy, and fruity bite-sized indulgence.
Ingredients
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 shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is sticky and well blended. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up for easier shaping.
- Form Truffle Balls: After chilling, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the coconut mixture and flatten it gently in your palm. Place one dried maraschino cherry in the center, then wrap the coconut mixture around the cherry to form a smooth, compact ball. Repeat this process until all 24 truffles are formed.
- Chill Truffles: Arrange the shaped truffles on a tray lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for 1 hour or alternatively freeze for 30 minutes, so the truffles become firm and ready for coating.
- Melt Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Dip Truffles in Chocolate: Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the coated truffle back onto the parchment-lined tray.
- Garnish and Set: Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle the tops with additional shredded coconut if desired. Once all truffles are dipped and decorated, place them in the refrigerator and chill for about 20 minutes, until the chocolate coating is firm and set.
Notes
- Ensure maraschino cherries are well-drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in the truffles.
- For a firmer texture, freeze the truffles before dipping in chocolate to avoid melting during coating.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter finish.
- Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within one week for best freshness.
- Additional flavor variations include adding a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest to the coconut mixture.
