Creamiest Coconut Delight

This old-school chocolate treat is loaded with coconut, chopped pecans, and juicy cherries. They’re rich, super creamy in the middle, covered with a chocolatey shell, and just right for the holidays or passing out to friends.

INGREDIENTS

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: 6 cups
• Shortening: 4 tbsp
• Pecans: 3 cups, chopped
• Maraschino cherries: 10 oz, drained and chopped
• Sweetened shredded coconut: 14 oz
• Powdered sugar: 4 cups
• Sweetened condensed milk: 14 oz
• Vanilla extract: 1 tbsp
• Unsalted butter: 1 cup, softened

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Toss the chocolate chips and shortening into a bowl and gently zap in the microwave until it's nice and smooth.

Step 2:

Roll the chilled mixture into little balls—think bite-sized.

Step 3:

Stick those balls in the fridge for a bit so they hold their shape—plan on an hour or two.

Step 4:

Mix in the coconut, pecans, chopped cherries, then slowly add the powdered sugar so it all blends together.

Step 5:

Start by blending up your butter, vanilla, and condensed milk until the mix is silky and smooth.

Step 6:

Dip each candy ball into the melted chocolate, then drop them onto some parchment. Chill again until the chocolate hardens—now dig in!

Serving and Storage Tips

• To keep them tasting their best, pop the candies in a sealed container and store in the fridge for up to a couple weeks, or freeze them if you want to hold onto them longer. Want them firmer? Eat chilled. Want them softer? Let them warm up a bit before munching.
• They look great as gifts! Tuck them into cute boxes or bags for a nice little surprise for someone you care about.

Helpful Notes

• Switch up the chocolate for dark or white varieties to change things up.
• If things are too sticky to roll, push the mixture into the fridge for a while until it tightens up enough to work with.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Pat cherries dry really well after draining to keep extra moisture out so the candies hold together.

The Perfect Festive Candy for Gifting

If you want to spread some holiday vibes, this sweet, creamy candy wrapped in chocolate is a fun way to do it. Great for parties or sharing with friends!

FAQs

Can I swap in fresh cherries for the maraschino ones?

I'd say stick to maraschino cherries. They're sweeter, less wet, and help everything stay together nicely.

Why do you need shortening with the chocolate?

Shortening melts right into the chocolate so it stays smooth and shiny. It also stops the coating from cracking later.

Can I stash these in the freezer?

Absolutely. Just make sure they're in a tight container. When you're ready, let them thaw in the fridge before you eat them.

How come my chocolate is too thick?

If the coating seems too stiff, just mix in a bit more shortening. It'll loosen up for an easier dip.

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Summary

Chocolate Coconut Bites bring together the velvety flavors of coconut, cherries, and pecans, all wrapped in rich chocolate. First, butter, vanilla, and condensed milk are blended into a creamy foundation. Powdered sugar, coconut flakes, diced cherries, and crumbled pecans are added to create the filling, which is cooled until sturdy. The chilled mixture is rolled into small balls before dipping them in melted chocolate, then left to set. These bites are amazing as holiday gifts, party snacks, or a treat at home. The mix of textures and sweetness makes them an absolute favorite for everyone.