If you are looking for a delightful holiday treat that brings together luscious flavors and a touch of elegance, then these Chocolate Cherry Coconut Truffles – Easy Holiday Treat Recipe are exactly what you need. Imagine the creamy sweetness of coconut perfectly hugging tangy maraschino cherries, all wrapped up in a smooth semisweet chocolate coating. These truffles are quick to make, surprisingly simple, and showcase a festive flair that will have everyone reaching for seconds at your next gathering. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this recipe is a true holiday winner that combines texture and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up these truffles that are bursting with flavor and have an irresistible texture. Each component plays a crucial role—from the chewy shredded coconut to the juicy cherries, and the rich chocolate glaze that ties everything together. Let’s break down the essentials to make this easy yet unforgettable treat.
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut: Provides a chewy texture and tropical sweetness that forms the base of the truffles.
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: Acts as a binder while adding creamy sweetness to keep the mixture luscious and moist.
- 15 maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry: Adds a burst of vibrant color and tangy, juicy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the coconut.
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips: Used for coating, bringing that rich, silky chocolate finish every truffle deserves.
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil: Helps the chocolate melt smoothly, giving a shiny coating that sets perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract for nut-free option): Adds a subtle depth of flavor enhancing the overall taste complexity.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Coconut Truffles – Easy Holiday Treat Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your truffles won’t stick and makes clean-up a breeze. It’s always helpful to prepare your workspace first for an easy and efficient process.
Step 2: Mix the Coconut Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded sweetened coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and almond extract. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated, forming a sticky, flavorful base that will hold the truffles together. The almond extract gives a nice aromatic lift to the coconut mixture to make it truly special.
Step 3: Add the Maraschino Cherries
Gently fold in the drained and patted dry maraschino cherries. Taking care not to crush them ensures they maintain their delightful pop of sweetness and vibrant red color, which adds a festive appearance as well as a juicy surprise inside every bite.
Step 4: Shape the Truffles
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small, even balls. Place each ball on the parchment-lined baking sheet. This tactile step is so fun and gives you a preview of the tasty treats to come.
Step 5: Melt the Chocolate Coating
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips with coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the chocolate is completely melted and silky smooth. The coconut oil makes the chocolate easier to coat the truffles and gives a beautiful shiny finish.
Step 6: Dip the Truffles
Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully dip each coconut ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. This chocolate coating adds an indulgent layer of texture and flavor to every truffle.
Step 7: Chill Until Set
Refrigerate the dipped truffles for at least 30 minutes. Allowing the chocolate to set completely ensures a satisfying snap when you bite into these dreamy treats. Once set, they’re ready to enjoy or pack for gifting.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Coconut Truffles – Easy Holiday Treat Recipe
Garnishes
For a charming presentation, consider sprinkling a pinch of toasted shredded coconut or finely chopped nuts on top of each truffle before the chocolate sets. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of white chocolate can also add visual interest and an extra touch of festivity.
Side Dishes
These truffles pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee, a festive tea blend, or even a mild red wine such as Pinot Noir. Their richness balances well with these beverages, making them a perfect small dessert or snack during holiday parties or cozy nights in.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your Chocolate Cherry Coconut Truffles – Easy Holiday Treat Recipe in decorative holiday tins or on a platter lined with festive parchment paper. You can also place them in mini cupcake liners for an elegant touch that’s ideal for gifting or serving at events.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Keeping them chilled maintains freshness and keeps the chocolate coating firm and delicious.
Freezing
These truffles freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to three months and thawed in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Because these are no-bake treats, reheating is not necessary. If the chocolate feels too firm when coming out of the fridge, simply let the truffles sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving.
FAQs
Can I substitute the maraschino cherries with fresh cherries?
Fresh cherries are delicious but contain more moisture, which can affect the texture of the truffles. If you choose to use fresh, remove the pits and pat them very dry first to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.
Is there a nut-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Simply use vanilla extract instead of almond extract to make this recipe completely nut-free without sacrificing flavor depth.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate chips?
Yes, dark chocolate is a great alternative and will give your truffles a richer, slightly more intense chocolate flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
How long do these truffles last at room temperature?
Because of the sweetened condensed milk and cherry components, it’s best to keep these truffles refrigerated and avoid leaving them out at room temperature for more than a couple of hours to maintain optimal freshness and safety.
What’s the best way to get a smooth chocolate coating?
Melting chocolate slowly using 30-second intervals in the microwave and stirring in between ensures the chocolate remains smooth and glossy. Adding coconut oil helps with consistency and shine, making dipping much easier.
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Cherry Coconut Truffles – Easy Holiday Treat Recipe bring together a symphony of flavors and textures that are truly irresistible. They are perfect for holiday gifting, festive parties, or simply indulging yourself with a sweet moment of joy. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s straightforward, full of personality, and guaranteed to brighten up your holiday season in the most delicious way.
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Chocolate Cherry Coconut Truffles – Easy Holiday Treat Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 20 truffles
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Chocolate Cherry Coconut Truffles are a delightful and easy-to-make holiday treat combining the sweetness of coconut and maraschino cherries with a luscious semisweet chocolate coating. Perfect for festive gatherings or gifting, these no-bake truffles offer a creamy, chewy center enveloped in rich chocolate.
Ingredients
Truffle Base
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract for nut-free option)
- 15 maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
Chocolate Coating
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the truffles from sticking during chilling.
- Make Truffle Mixture: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine shredded sweetened coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and almond extract until the mixture is well blended and sticky.
- Add Cherries: Gently fold the drained and dried maraschino cherries into the coconut mixture, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without breaking them apart.
- Form Balls: Using a small scoop or your hands, scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into smooth balls. Arrange these balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Melt Chocolate: Place the semisweet chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Dip Truffles: Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each coconut ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Place the dipped truffles back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill and Set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes until the chocolate coating is firm and the truffles are set.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, substitute almond extract with vanilla extract.
- Make sure maraschino cherries are well drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in the truffle mixture.
- Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- To soften coconut oil quickly if solidified, warm gently at room temperature or in brief microwave bursts before mixing with chocolate.
- You can roll the truffles in extra shredded coconut before chilling for added texture.
