Description
Chocolate Coconut Truffles with White Chocolate Coating
Ingredients:
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup condensed milk
1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted
200g white chocolate, melted (for coating)
Grated dark chocolate (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a bowl, mix shredded coconut, condensed milk, and melted dark chocolate until combined.
Form small balls with the mixture and place them on a lined baking sheet.
Refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm.
2. Coat with White Chocolate:
Dip each coconut-chocolate ball into the melted white chocolate using a fork or skewer.
Place the coated truffles back on the baking sheet.
3. Decorate:
Sprinkle grated dark chocolate on top of the truffles before the white chocolate sets.
4. Chill:
Refrigerate the truffles for another 15-20 minutes until the coating hardens.
Serve these delightful truffles as a treat or gift!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect truffles every time.
- Mix Thoroughly: In a medium bowl, combine the sweetened shredded coconut and condensed milk first. Then, add the melted dark chocolate and stir until you have a uniformly dark, sticky mixture with no dry streaks of coconut.
- Chill Before Shaping: Place this initial mixture in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. This makes it much easier to handle and roll without sticking excessively to your hands.
- Roll Consistently: Using a teaspoon or small cookie scoop, portion the mixture. Roll firmly between your palms to create smooth, compact balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Set the Base: Return the baking sheet to the refrigerator for a full 30 minutes. The balls must be completely firm to the touch before coating.
- Melt Coating Carefully: Melt the white chocolate in a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently until completely smooth. Transfer it to a narrow, deep cup for easier dipping.
- Dip and Drain: Using a fork or dipping tool, submerge one firm truffle ball. Lift it, gently tap the fork on the edge of the cup to allow excess chocolate to drip off, then place it back on the parchment.
- Garnish Immediately: Right after dipping each truffle, sprinkle with grated dark chocolate before the white chocolate sets.
- Final Set: Chill the completed tray for 15-20 minutes until the coating is fully hardened.
Serving Suggestions
These elegant truffles are versatile. Serve them in petite paper cups on a dessert platter alongside coffee or after-dinner liqueurs. For gifting, place them in a decorative box or tin layered between sheets of parchment paper. They also make a stunning topping for cupcakes or a decadent mix-in for ice cream sundaes.
How-to Summary
Create a firm coconut-chocolate base, chill thoroughly, dip in melted white chocolate, garnish instantly, and chill again to set the shell.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but the truffle center will be less sweet and may have a drier texture. You may need to add a touch more condensed milk.
How should I store these truffles?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The cool temperature prevents the chocolate coating from softening.
My white chocolate is too thick for dipping. What can I do?
Thin it with a tiny amount of coconut oil (1/2 teaspoon at a time) while melting until it reaches a fluid, dipping consistency.
Can I freeze these truffles?
Absolutely. Freeze them in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I use instead of condensed milk?
For a dairy-free version, full-fat coconut cream can be reduced with a little sugar until thickened, though the texture will be slightly different.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the initial chill: Rolling the mixture without chilling first results in a sticky mess and misshapen truffles.
- Warm centers during dipping: If the coconut balls aren’t fully chilled, they can melt the white chocolate coating, causing it to slide off.
- Overheating the chocolate: White chocolate scorches easily. Melt it gently and slowly to avoid a grainy, seized texture.
- Delaying the garnish: Sprinkling the dark chocolate garnish too late means it won’t stick to the wet coating.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Coconut Truffles are a sublime fusion of rich dark chocolate, chewy coconut, and creamy white chocolate. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily master this impressive confection. Perfect for treating yourself or gifting to loved ones, they are a guaranteed delight for any chocolate enthusiast.