Grandma Wagner's Chocolate Covered Coconut Easter Eggs

One of my most fond memories of Easter, and of my paternal grandmother, are the chocolate covered coconut Easter eggs she used to make. Before I begin to tell my story, you have to first know how much I dislike coconut. Eating ranks as one of my top all time favorite things to do. There is very little I won't eat, in fact I can only think of two things -- anchovies and coconut. I can still remember the first time I bit into one of Grandma Wagner's coconut eggs. I was probably eight or nine years old. I thought, "This can't possibly be coconut." I kept taking bite after bite wondering where the coconut was! One Easter Grandma gave me my very own card box full of her delicious eggs. I couldn't believe they were all for ME! She probably gave an equal amount to each of my brothers, but I don't remember. I savored every bite of those eggs. With the Easter season upon us, I couldn't help but reminisce about Grandma's eggs. (Grandma passed away just over 24 years ago.) I decided to email my Aunt Anna, Grandma's daughter, for the recipe. Much to my delight, Aunt Anna remembered just how they were made and let me in on the family secret! She was right when she said they are simple to make, but not easy! I have a blister from the time and effort it took removing the fresh coconut meat from the shell! After forming the eggs (Kassie helped with this step) it took three days for them to dry. This morning I did the finishing step of dipping them into bittersweet chocolate. (Sorry Dottie, no milk chocolate here!) I'm so thankful Aunt Anna remembered how they were made so I could relive a part of my past. Grandma, if there are computers in heaven and you're reading my blog, thanks for starting this delicious Wagner family tradition that I plan on continuing!