Chocolate Cherry Coconut Truffles – Easy Holiday Treat

Chocolate Cherry Coconut Truffles are an irresistible no-bake treat packed with chopped cherries, crushed cookies, coconut, milk chocolate chunks, and coated in sweetened condensed milk and dark chocolate. These truffles are rich, chewy, and perfect for Christmas gifting—or any time you’re craving a sweet, chocolatey bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required

• Only 6 simple ingredients

• Sweet and chewy with rich chocolate flavor

• Inspired by Australia’s beloved Cherry Ripe bar

• Great for holiday gifting or entertaining

• Perfect texture with crunchy, chewy, and creamy elements

• Kid-friendly and fun to make

• Easy to prepare ahead

• Customizable with your favorite toppings

• Freezer-friendly for long-term storage

Ingredients

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

• Digestive biscuits or graham crackers

• Desiccated coconut (plus extra for rolling)

• Glacé or candied cherries

• Milk chocolate

• Dark or semi-sweet chocolate

• Sweetened condensed milk

Directions

1. Crush the biscuits into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and bashing with a rolling pin.

2. Add the crushed biscuits and desiccated coconut to a large mixing bowl.

3. Finely chop the cherries and milk chocolate, then stir them into the dry mixture.

4. Melt the dark chocolate in the microwave or over a double boiler. Once melted, stir in the sweetened condensed milk until fully combined.

5. Quickly pour the chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms.

6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.

7. Once chilled, scoop out teaspoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll into balls.

8. Roll each truffle in extra desiccated coconut to coat.

9. Store the truffles in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 20–25 truffles
Prep Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Coated: Dip the truffles in melted dark or milk chocolate for a glossy finish.

• Cocoa Coated: Roll the truffles in unsweetened cocoa powder for a slightly bitter contrast.

• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts to the mixture for extra texture.

• Boozy Truffles: Add a splash of cherry liqueur or rum to the mix for a grown-up twist.

• White Chocolate: Swap the dark chocolate for white chocolate for a milder sweetness.

• Vegan Option: Use vegan chocolate and sweetened condensed coconut milk.

• Dried Fruit Mix: Use a combination of dried cherries, cranberries, or raisins.

• Festive Colors: Mix in colored sprinkles or roll in red and green sanding sugar for a holiday touch.

• Crushed Candy Cane: Add crushed peppermint candy to the mix or sprinkle on top.

• Oats or Rice Cereal: Mix in a small amount of oats or crispy rice cereal for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze truffles in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a container or zip-top bag. Store for up to 3 months.
To Thaw: Let frozen truffles sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Reheating: These truffles are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature—no reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie?

Yes, you can substitute digestive biscuits with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or any plain sweet cookie.

What kind of cherries should I use?

Glacé or candied cherries work best for this recipe, providing sweetness and chew. Dried cherries can also be used.

Can I make these truffles dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free chocolate and a dairy-free condensed milk alternative such as sweetened condensed coconut milk.

Do I have to refrigerate the dough before rolling?

Yes, chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to roll into truffles.

Can I coat these truffles in chocolate instead of coconut?

Absolutely. Dip the rolled truffles in melted chocolate and let them set on parchment paper.

How far in advance can I make these?

You can make these up to 5 days in advance, or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Are these overly sweet?

They are rich and sweet but balanced by the coconut and dark chocolate. You can use semi-sweet chocolate to reduce sweetness.

Can I add alcohol to the mixture?

Yes, a tablespoon of cherry liqueur or rum can be added for an adult version.

Will they hold their shape at room temperature?

Yes, once set in the fridge, these truffles will hold their shape well at room temperature for several hours.

Can I use shredded coconut instead of desiccated?

Desiccated coconut gives a finer texture, but shredded coconut can be used if chopped slightly.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cherry Coconut Truffles are the perfect festive treat—easy to make, rich in flavor, and impossible to resist. Whether you’re whipping up a quick batch for a holiday gift or adding them to a dessert tray, these truffles are sure to impress. With their chewy cherry pieces, crunchy biscuit base, and creamy chocolate coating, they’re a bite-sized taste of holiday joy.