Chocolate Cherry Creams

1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
1/3 cup evaporated milk
1� cups powdered sugar, sifted
1/3 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
1/3 cup maraschino cherries, chopped and well-drained
� teaspoon cherry extract, optional
1� cups sweetened flaked coconut

In a heavy 2-quart saucepan over low heat, heat the chocolate chips and milk together until the chocolate melts, stirring until smooth.

Remove from the heat. Stir in the powdered sugar, nuts, cherries and cherry extract, if using, blending well. Cover and refrigerate until the mixture is cool enough to handle, about 1 hour.

Shape the mixture into balls 1 inch in diameter. Roll the balls in the coconut. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Note: If the mixture is too soft to hold its shape, stir in additional powdered sugar, a spoonful at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. If the mixture is too thick, stir in additional milk, a few drops at a time, until it is the desired consistency.

Makes about 30.

Source of Recipe: "Who Wants Candy?" by Jane Sharrock