Easy Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles Ready in 30 Minutes

Did You Know 75% of People Crave Chocolate and Fruit Together—But Rarely Find the Perfect Pairing?

There’s something magical about the combination of rich chocolate and juicy fruit, yet so many desserts miss the mark. Too sweet, too artificial, or just…missing that je ne sais quoi. That’s exactly why I fell head over heels for these Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles—they strike the perfect balance between decadent, fruity, and just a little nostalgic. Imagine biting into a velvety chocolate shell, only to discover a burst of maraschino cherry nestled in a cloud of coconut. It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited.

I first stumbled upon this flavor combination at a tiny patisserie in Paris (yes, I’m that cliché). The pastry chef handed me a similar truffle with a wink, saying, “This is how cherries should taste.” He wasn’t wrong. But after years of tweaking, I’ve created a version that’s even better—no plane ticket required. These truffles are:

• Unapologetically indulgent—dark chocolate meets sweet-tart cherries
• Surprisingly simple—just 6 ingredients stand between you and bliss
• Nostalgia reinvented—like a grown-up version of those cherry cordials you loved as a kid

Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Maraschino cherries? Really?” Trust me, these aren’t the neon-red, syrupy ones from your childhood sundae. When paired with high-quality chocolate and toasted coconut, they transform into something sophisticated—like a little black dress for your taste buds. The secret? We’re giving those cherries a quick rinse to mellow the sweetness, then letting them shine alongside other bold flavors.

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🍒 Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles 🍫🥥

There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of chocolate, cherries, and coconut—each bite feels like a little celebration. These truffles are rich, indulgent, and just sweet enough to satisfy your cravings without overwhelming your senses. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make! Let’s gather our ingredients and get started.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (or chopped dark chocolate) – I prefer using 70% cocoa for a deep, bittersweet contrast to the sweet cherries.
• 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk – The richness of full-fat coconut milk ensures a velvety smooth ganache.
• 1/2 cup finely shredded coconut – Unsweetened works best here to balance the sweetness of the cherries.
• 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, finely chopped – Don’t forget to reserve a little of the syrup for extra cherry flavor!
• 1 tbsp maraschino cherry syrup – This adds a lovely hint of brightness to the truffles.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla rounds out all the flavors beautifully.
• Pinch of sea salt – Trust me, a tiny bit of salt makes the chocolate taste even richer.
• Extra shredded coconut or cocoa powder (for rolling) – For that perfect finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into making these little bites of bliss. I promise, the process is as enjoyable as the result!

1. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut milk. Gently melt them together using a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently until smooth and glossy. Be patient—slow and steady wins the ganache game!
2. Add the Flavor Boosters: Stir in the chopped maraschino cherries, cherry syrup, vanilla extract, and that all-important pinch of sea salt. The mixture should be fragrant and speckled with little bits of cherry.
3. Let It Set: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight). The ganache needs time to firm up so it’s easy to roll later.
4. Prep Your Coating: While waiting, spread your shredded coconut or cocoa powder on a small plate. This will be our truffle “blanket” for rolling later.

At this point, your kitchen probably smells heavenly—like a tropical chocolate dream. The hardest part is waiting for the ganache to set, but I promise, it’ll be worth it. Once it’s firm, we’ll move on to shaping and coating these beauties. Stay tuned for the next steps!

Conclusion

These Chocolate Maraschino Cherry Coconut Truffles are a delightful blend of rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and tropical coconut—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests at any gathering. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up these decadent treats in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and oh-so-rewarding.

Ready to indulge? Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Share your creations with us in the comments or tag us on social media—we’d love to see your truffle masterpieces. And if you’re craving more sweet inspiration, be sure to check out our other dessert recipes for more delicious ideas!

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

While fresh cherries sound tempting, maraschino cherries work best here because of their syrup-soaked texture and sweetness. If you prefer fresh cherries, try macerating them in a little sugar and cherry juice to mimic the flavor.

How long do these truffles stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these truffles will stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month—just thaw in the fridge before serving.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a deeper, less sweet flavor that balances beautifully with the cherries and coconut. Feel free to use your favorite variety.

What if I don’t have coconut oil?

No worries! You can substitute with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil, though coconut oil adds a subtle tropical flavor that complements the recipe.

Can I make these truffles vegan?

Yes! Simply swap the milk chocolate for dairy-free chocolate and ensure your maraschino cherries are vegan-friendly (some brands contain animal-derived red dye). The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based!

Why did my truffles turn out too soft?

If your truffles aren’t holding their shape, the mixture may need more chilling time. Pop them back in the fridge for another 30 minutes, or add a touch more shredded coconut to help firm them up.