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This chocolate cherry coconut truffle recipe transforms simple ingredients into elegant bite-sized treats that taste as luxurious as store-bought chocolates but with fresher flavor and natural ingredients. The combination of sweet coconut, tart cherries, and rich chocolate creates an irresistible texture and flavor profile that works for any occasion.
I first made these truffles for a holiday cookie exchange when I needed something that would stand out among the sea of traditional cookies. They disappeared within minutes and I've been making triple batches ever since for every gathering.
Ingredients
- Shredded coconut: Adds texture and tropical flavor while forming the base of these truffles
- Dried cherries: Provide a perfect tart contrast to the sweet coconut while giving beautiful color
- Sweetened condensed milk: Binds everything together and creates the perfect chewy texture
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors look for pure extract for the best results
- Dark chocolate: Creates a rich shell that snaps beautifully when you bite into it
- Coconut oil: Helps the chocolate coating achieve a professional glossy finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Base Ingredients:
- Combine shredded coconut dried cherries sweetened condensed milk vanilla and salt in a medium bowl until thoroughly incorporated. The mixture will look quite sticky but this ensures the truffles will hold their shape. Make sure every bit of coconut is coated with the condensed milk for proper binding.
- Chill and Shape:
- Refrigerate the mixture for a full 30 minutes which firms it up just enough to handle. Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop portion the mixture and roll between your palms to form uniform 1inch balls. Place them on a parchmentlined tray with small spaces between each truffle. The freezing step is crucial as it prevents the truffles from melting when dipped in warm chocolate.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
- Chop the chocolate into small uniform pieces for even melting. Add the coconut oil which helps thin the chocolate to the perfect consistency for dipping. Heat in 30second intervals stirring thoroughly between each until completely smooth. Stop microwaving when small pieces remain and let residual heat complete the melting to prevent burning.
- Dip with Precision:
- Working quickly remove just a few truffles from the freezer at a time keeping the rest cold. Balance each truffle on a fork and lower it completely into the chocolate. Tap the fork gently against the bowl to remove excess chocolate which creates a thinner more professional looking coating. Slide each coated truffle onto parchment paper using a toothpick to help ease it off the fork.
- Add Finishing Touches:
- While the chocolate is still wet sprinkle each truffle with your chosen garnishes pressing very gently to ensure they adhere. If drizzling with white chocolate wait until the dark chocolate coating has set slightly about 5 minutes to prevent the colors from bleeding together.
The dried cherries are truly what make these truffles special. I discovered this recipe when looking for ways to use the abundance of cherries I had dried from our backyard tree. There's something magical about the way the slight chewiness of the dried fruit contrasts with the smooth chocolate exterior.
Make Ahead and Storage
These truffles actually improve with a day of rest in the refrigerator as the flavors meld together beautifully. Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They'll keep for up to one week refrigerated or three months in the freezer. When freezing allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture experience.
Flavor Variations
While the cherry coconut combination is classic you can easily customize these truffles to create signature flavors. Replace the cherries with dried cranberries for a holiday version or chopped dried apricots for a sunnier profile. Add a quarter teaspoon of almond extract alongside the vanilla for a sophisticated cherry almond version. For chocolate lovers add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the coconut mixture for a double chocolate experience.
Gifting Ideas
These handmade truffles make exceptional gifts that look far more laborious than they actually are. Place them in mini cupcake liners inside a small gift box tied with ribbon for an elegant presentation. For a more casual gift place them in a mason jar with a decorative label. During the holidays arrange them in a star pattern on a decorative plate wrapped in cellophane for an edible centerpiece that doubles as a hostess gift.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these truffles slightly chilled rather than straight from the refrigerator for the perfect texture. They pair beautifully with coffee especially a medium roast that complements the chocolate without overwhelming the coconut cherry flavors. For a dessert platter arrange them alongside fresh berries and small cookies for a varied texture experience. At parties place them on a tiered stand with other small desserts for an impressive visual display.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I store these truffles?
Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- → Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the sweetness by adding a bit of powdered sugar or extra condensed milk.
- → What type of chocolate works best for coating?
Dark or semi-sweet chocolate works best, but you can also use milk chocolate for a sweeter variation.
- → Can I add other flavors to the filling?
Absolutely! You can add almond extract, orange zest, or even a splash of cherry liqueur for extra flavor.
- → What alternatives can I use to garnish the truffles?
Aside from coconut and cherries, you can use crushed nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt flakes as garnish.
- → Are these truffles suitable for vegan diets?
To make them vegan, replace condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative and use vegan chocolate.