Valentines Treats Chocolate Coconut Cups

Name: Valentines Treats Chocolate Coconut Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup shredded coconut; 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Valentine’s Treats Chocolate Coconut Cups for special occasions! The unique blend of rich chocolate and creamy coconut fills my kitchen with irresistible aromas, creating an atmosphere of warmth and joy. The best part is how simple they are to prepare, yet they look and taste like a gourmet dessert. Whether I’m celebrating with loved ones or treating myself, these delightful cups never fail to impress. With just a few ingredients and a bit of creativity, I transform everyday moments into sweet memories.

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:19:16.605Z

When I first attempted these coconut cups, I was astounded by how quickly they came together! The process of melting chocolate and mixing it with coconut created a joyful experience. I discovered that solidifying the coconut filling in the freezer for just a short time helps the cups hold together beautifully when being dipped in chocolate. It always amazes me how a few simple ingredients can create such a delightful treat.

Experimenting with flavors has been a delightful journey, too! I've added a pinch of sea salt on top of the cups and it elevates the dessert by enhancing the sweet and coconut flavors unbelievably. Sharing these with loved ones on Valentine’s Day is always a highlight of my year, as they bring joy and sweetness to the occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy coconut.
Easy to make and perfect for sharing.
A delightful treat for any occasion, especially Valentine's Day.

      

Mastering the Chocolate Coconut Cups

Making the perfect chocolate coconut cups begins with selecting quality ingredients. The shredded coconut should be unsweetened if you prefer to control the sweetness, while sweetened condensed milk adds just the right amount of creaminess and sweetness to the filling. For the chocolate, I recommend semi-sweet chocolate chips for their melting properties—look for chips that say 'morsels' on the package for the best consistency when melted.

A crucial technique in this recipe is ensuring that the chocolate melts smoothly. When microwaving, use short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between. This prevents the chocolate from burning, which can ruin the silky texture you want. If you notice the chocolate becoming thick or grainy, it may have overheated; adding a teaspoon of coconut oil can help regain that smooth finish.

Tips for Assembly and Storage

When forming the coconut cups, pressing the mixture firmly into the base ensures they hold together when dipped in chocolate. Use a small measuring spoon or your fingers to compact the filling well. After chilling in the freezer for 10 minutes, the filling should be firm enough to retain its shape but not so hard that it becomes difficult to coat evenly with chocolate.

Once assembled, these cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to make them ahead of time, they freeze beautifully. Just ensure they are spaced apart so the chocolate coating doesn’t stick together. Thaw them in the fridge before serving to retain their texture. I often take them out an hour before serving, letting them come to room temperature for an even more enjoyable bite.

Ingredients

For the Coconut Filling

1 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Coating

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start.

Instructions

Prepare the Coconut Filling

In a bowl, combine shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined.

Form the Coconut Cups

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Press about a tablespoon of the coconut mixture into the bottom of each liner to form the base.

Chill the Cups

Place the muffin tin in the freezer for about 10 minutes to allow the coconut filling to set.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Dip the Cups

Remove the coconut cups from the freezer. Dip each one in the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Return them to the muffin tin.

Let Them Set

Allow the chocolate coating to harden at room temperature or place them back in the freezer for about 10 minutes.

Enjoy your homemade treats!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top of the chocolate before it hardens. This creates a delightful contrast of flavors.

Flavor Variations

While the classic chocolate and coconut flavor combination is simply divine, you can easily customize these cups to suit your preferences. For a tropical twist, add a teaspoon of almond extract or a dash of rum flavoring to the coconut mixture. If you enjoy a hint of salt, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate coating before it sets—this contrast elevates the dessert beautifully.

If you're looking to make these cups a bit more decadent, consider adding a layer of crushed nuts or a dollop of peanut butter inside the coconut filling. These additions can enhance both flavor and texture, making your chocolate coconut cups stand out even more.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate doesn’t coat smoothly, and instead clumps or does not adhere well, the chocolate may have cooled too much. Simply return it to the microwave for additional short bursts of heat while stirring until it loosens up and becomes glossy again. On the other hand, if your coconut filling is too runny and does not hold shape, consider adding more shredded coconut or refrigerating it a bit longer before forming the cups.

One common challenge is the chocolate not hardening adequately around the coconut filling. Ensure the coconut cups are thoroughly chilled before dipping; this helps the chocolate firm up faster when they are dipped. Also, if you live in a warmer climate, consider refrigerating the finished cups for a longer period to achieve the perfect texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will provide a richer flavor.

→ How long can I store these cups?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes, you can use dairy-free chocolate and substitute the condensed milk with coconut cream.

→ Is there an alternative to shredded coconut?

You could use finely chopped nuts or even oats, though they will change the texture.