Description
Pink Creamy Coconut Hearts are delightful, bite-sized treats combining the tropical flavor of sweetened coconut with a creamy, sweet white chocolate base. Enhanced with a touch of vanilla and an optional festive pink hue, these coconut hearts are perfect for holiday celebrations or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Coating
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
Optional
- Red or pink food coloring (optional, for a festive pink hue)
Instructions
- Prepare the Coconut Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded sweetened coconut, softened unsalted butter, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients form a smooth, cohesive dough. If desired, add a few drops of red or pink food coloring to the mixture to achieve a festive pink color.
- Shape the Hearts: Using your hands or a small mold, shape the mixture into bite-sized heart shapes. Place the shaped hearts on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
- Melt the White Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in short intervals of 20-30 seconds, stirring well after each interval until fully smooth and melted.
- Coat the Hearts: Remove the chilled coconut hearts from the refrigerator. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each heart into the melted white chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Place the coated hearts back on the parchment-lined tray.
- Set the Coating: Refrigerate the coated coconut hearts for another 10-15 minutes, or until the white chocolate shell hardens completely.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once set, the pink creamy coconut hearts are ready to enjoy. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- To make shaping easier, slightly wet your hands or molds to prevent sticking.
- If you prefer a less sweet treat, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar slightly.
- For a stronger coconut flavor, toast the shredded coconut lightly before mixing.
- Ensure white chocolate does not overheat during melting to avoid burning or seizing.
- Store the coconut hearts in a cool place or refrigerator to maintain their shape and freshness.