If you’re looking for a decadent, bite-sized treat that combines rich chocolate, the tropical flair of coconut, and the bright burst of maraschino cherries, this Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe is absolutely the answer. Each truffle is a delightful little gem of chewy coconut and sweet cherry, wrapped in a glossy coat of velvety chocolate, making it impossible to stop at just one. Perfect for sharing (or savoring all by yourself), these truffles are simple to make yet impressive enough to wow friends and family alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for humble ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture you’ll love. Each one plays a crucial role, whether adding moisture, binding the mixture, or bringing that luscious sweetness and aroma.
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut: Provides the chewy, tropical base with a naturally sweet bite.
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk: Acts as a rich, creamy binder that also adds sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: Adds a subtle nutty depth that complements the cherries beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances the overall sweetness.
- 24 maraschino cherries, well-drained and dried: The star surprise inside each truffle, offering a juicy pop of flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips: For coating, giving a smooth, slightly bitter balance to the sweet filling.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil: Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and sets with a glossy finish.
- Extra shredded coconut (optional): For sprinkling on top to add texture and a pretty finishing touch.
How to Make Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Coconut Base
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 blended, which helps the ingredients bind. Then, pop this bowl into the fridge for about 30 minutes so it firms up and is easier to handle. This chilling step is essential for shaping the truffles smoothly.
Step 2: Shape the Truffles
Once the coconut mixture has chilled, scoop out about a tablespoon at a time. Flatten each scoop gently in your palm, tuck a dried maraschino cherry right in the center, and then wrap the coconut mixture completely around the cherry, forming a smooth ball. This is the fun part where each truffle starts to come to life! Continue this until you’ve formed 24 beautiful truffles.
Step 3: Chill or Freeze the Truffles
Lay your shaped truffles out on a parchment-lined tray and pop them back into the refrigerator for one hour to firm up. If you’re short on time, freezing for 30 minutes works just as well. Firm truffles will dip beautifully without falling apart and will hold their shape perfectly while you coat them.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate and Dip
Next, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in short 30-second bursts and stirring between each to ensure a silky, lump-free chocolate coating. Carefully dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, making sure it’s completely covered. Let the excess chocolate drip off before setting each one back on the tray.
Step 5: Garnish and Set
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the tops with extra shredded coconut for an extra boost of coconut flavor and an attractive finish. Once all truffles are dipped and garnished, return the tray to the refrigerator until the chocolate hardens, about 20 minutes. Then they’re ready to delight your taste buds!
How to Serve Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your truffles with a little shredded coconut adds a snowy contrast on dark chocolate, but you can also experiment with finely chopped nuts or a dusting of cocoa powder for a different flair. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and add a little extra texture with every bite.
Side Dishes
Serve these truffles alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich, creamy hot chocolate for the ultimate indulgence. They also pair wonderfully with fruity cocktails or even a sparkling wine for a party treat that feels both elevated and approachable.
Creative Ways to Present
These truffles look stunning arranged in a decorative box lined with parchment paper as a thoughtful homemade gift. Alternatively, place them in mini cupcake liners and present them on a pretty platter at a gathering where guests can grab and go. They also make charming edible favors for showers, birthdays, or holiday celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This will maintain their freshness and keep the chocolate shell firm without becoming sticky or losing its glossy finish.
Freezing
These truffles freeze beautifully and can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To prevent sticking, place parchment paper between layers if stacking. When you’re ready to enjoy, transfer them to the fridge to thaw overnight for the best texture.
Reheating
Since these are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, it’s best to avoid reheating. If you prefer them slightly softer, simply let the truffles sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. This gentle warming helps the chocolate soften without compromising the chewy coconut center.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries don’t have the same sweetness or texture as maraschino cherries, so they might make the truffles wetter and less stable. If you want a fresh cherry flavor, try using dried cherries, but maraschino cherries provide the best balance of sweetness and firmness for this recipe.
What type of chocolate is best for coating these truffles?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips work best as they provide a nice contrast to the sweet coconut and cherries. You can also use high-quality baking chocolate for a richer flavor and smoother coating, depending on your preference.
Can these truffles be made vegan or dairy-free?
To make these vegan, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a vegan alternative and choose dairy-free chocolate chips. Keep in mind the texture might change slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
How long do these truffles take to make from start to finish?
The entire Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe takes about one hour and fifty minutes, mostly due to chilling and setting times. The hands-on prep is straightforward and takes under 30 minutes.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add finely chopped nuts to the coconut mixture for crunch or a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm spice note. Feel free to experiment but keep the cherry center as the star of the show.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe has a special way of turning simple ingredients into something truly magical and indulgent. Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting to friends, these truffles bring a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and chewy textures wrapped in a luxurious chocolate coat. I can’t wait for you to try them and make these delightful bites your new favorite dessert!
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Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these luscious Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles, combining the tropical sweetness of shredded coconut with smooth chocolate and a surprise cherry center. Perfect as a festive treat or elegant dessert, these no-bake truffles offer a creamy, rich flavor with a subtle almond and vanilla undertone.
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
Garnish (Optional)
- Extra shredded coconut, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Coconut Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the sweetened shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is well combined and sticky. Place the bowl in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
- Shape the Truffles: Once chilled, take about 1 tablespoon of the coconut mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place one dried maraschino cherry in the center, then carefully wrap the coconut mixture around the cherry to form a smooth ball. Repeat this process until you have shaped all 24 truffles.
- Chill the Truffles: Arrange the shaped truffles on a parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate for 1 hour or alternatively freeze them for 30 minutes until they become firm enough to handle for dipping.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil in 30-second increments, stirring well between each interval until the chocolate is fully smooth and melted.
- Dip the Truffles: Dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, making sure it is completely coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off, then place the coated truffles back onto the parchment-lined tray.
- Garnish and Set: Before the chocolate coating sets, sprinkle extra shredded coconut over the truffles for added texture and decoration. Once all truffles are coated and garnished, chill them in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes or until the chocolate is firm.
Notes
- Ensure maraschino cherries are well-drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture from softening the truffles.
- Use good quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for the best flavor and smooth coating.
- For easier handling, chill the truffle mixture thoroughly before shaping and dipping.
- Store finished truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Optionally, sprinkle with cocoa powder or finely chopped nuts instead of shredded coconut for variety.
