Description
Sweet coconut almond truffles coated in rich chocolate and sprinkled with coconut, capturing the classic Almond Joy flavor in a bite-sized treat. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut, divided
- 1 1/2 cups whole almonds, toasted
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or vegetable shortening)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk. Cream together until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add 3 cups of the shredded coconut to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix. If it seems too wet, add a little more coconut, a tablespoon at a time.
- Gently fold in the toasted almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the coconut mixture. Roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball.
- Place the formed truffle onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining coconut mixture, spacing the truffles evenly apart.
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up. You can even freeze them for 15-20 minutes for an even quicker chill.
- In a heat-safe bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler), combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil (or vegetable shortening). Make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
- Stir the chocolate constantly until it is completely melted and smooth.
- Remove the bowl from the heat and let the chocolate cool slightly.
- Remove the chilled truffles from the refrigerator.
- Using a fork or dipping tools, carefully dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is completely coated. Gently tap off any excess chocolate.
- Place the dipped truffle back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the remaining shredded coconut (the 1/2 cup we reserved) over the top of each truffle.
- If you want to add an extra touch of Almond Joy flavor, you can press a toasted almond half into the top of each truffle before the chocolate sets.
- Repeat the dipping and decorating process with the remaining truffles.
- Place the baking sheet back in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.
- Once the chocolate is set, carefully remove the truffles from the baking sheet.
- Store the Almond Joy Truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. If freezing, thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Notes
- Use good quality chocolate for the best flavor.
- Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor.
- Don’t overmix the coconut mixture.
- Chill the truffles before dipping.
- Melt the chocolate slowly.
- Get creative with decorations.
- These truffles can be made ahead of time.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking.
- Experiment with flavors.
- Troubleshooting: If your chocolate seizes (becomes thick and grainy), try adding a teaspoon of vegetable shortening or coconut oil and stirring vigorously. If your truffles are too soft, add more shredded coconut to the mixture. If your chocolate is too thick, add a little more coconut oil or shortening.
- Presentation matters: Arrange the truffles on a pretty platter or in a decorative box for a beautiful presentation. They make a wonderful gift!
- Variations: Consider using dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor. You could also add a layer of caramel to the center of each truffle before dipping them in chocolate. Another fun variation is to roll the truffles in chopped nuts instead of shredded coconut.
- Dietary Considerations: To make these truffles dairy-free, use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut condensed milk. To make them gluten-free, ensure that all ingredients are gluten-free.
- Safety First: Always be careful when working with hot chocolate. Use oven mitts when handling hot baking sheets and bowls.
- Clean Up: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Soak your mixing bowls and utensils in hot, soapy water to remove any chocolate residue.
- Enjoy!: Most importantly, have fun making these delicious Almond Joy Truffles! They are a perfect treat for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes