Chocolate Cherry Coconut Truffles

These Chocolate Cherry Coconut Truffles are rich, decadent bite-sized treats bursting with flavor. With a sweet cherry-coconut center dipped in silky chocolate, these truffles are perfect for holidays, gifting, or satisfying your sweet tooth. Best of all, they require no baking and come together with just a few simple ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-bake and easy to prepare
• Perfect balance of chocolate, cherry, and coconut flavors
• Ideal for holiday trays, parties, or edible gifts
• Made with minimal ingredients
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience
• Naturally gluten-free
• Easy to customize with mix-ins or coatings
• Beautiful and elegant presentation
• Kid-friendly and adult-approved
• A fun and fuss-free dessert option

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Sweetened shredded coconut
• Maraschino cherries (finely chopped)
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Almond extract (optional)
• Semisweet or dark chocolate chips
• Coconut oil or shortening (for melting chocolate)
• Optional toppings: chopped nuts, extra shredded coconut, sprinkles

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded coconut, chopped maraschino cherries, sweetened condensed milk, and almond extract (if using). Mix until well combined.
2. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes until firm enough to handle.
3. Scoop and roll the chilled mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place on a parchment-lined tray.
4. Freeze truffles for at least 30 minutes to make dipping easier.
5. Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals until smooth.
6. Dip each frozen truffle into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
7. Place dipped truffles back on the tray. Optional: sprinkle with coconut, nuts, or decorations before chocolate sets.
8. Let chocolate harden at room temperature or refrigerate to speed up the process.
9. Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.

Servings and timing

• Servings: About 24 truffles
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 1–1.5 hours
• Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Use dried cherries instead of maraschino for a deeper flavor
• Swap in white chocolate for a sweeter coating
• Add chopped almonds to the filling for crunch
• Flavor with rum or cherry extract for an adult twist
• Roll in cocoa powder or powdered sugar instead of dipping in chocolate

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store truffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Not applicable, as these are served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use unsweetened coconut?

Yes, but the truffles will be less sweet. You may want to add a touch of powdered sugar if you prefer.

Do I have to use maraschino cherries?

No, dried cherries, cherry preserves, or cherry extract can also work as alternatives.

What type of chocolate is best for coating?

Semisweet or dark chocolate works well to balance the sweetness of the filling.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free sweetened condensed milk and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Can I skip the chilling steps?

Chilling helps the truffles hold their shape and makes dipping much easier — it’s highly recommended.

How long do they last?

They last up to a week in the fridge and up to two months in the freezer.

Can I make them nut-free?

Absolutely. Simply leave out any nuts or almond extract for a nut-free version.

Can I use chocolate bark or candy melts?

Yes, they melt smoothly and are great for coating truffles.

How do I get a smooth chocolate finish?

Make sure the truffles are frozen and the chocolate is fully melted and slightly cooled for even coating.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! This recipe is easy to scale up for parties or gifting.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cherry Coconut Truffles are a delightful, no-fuss dessert packed with flavor and texture. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because, these truffles are sure to impress. Rich, sweet, and irresistibly good, they’re proof that simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. Give them a try and enjoy a taste of homemade indulgence!

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