If you’re searching for a show-stopping treat that’s as fun to make as it is to devour, look no further than Cherry Mash Truffles. With their soft cherry center wrapped in a decadent chocolate-peanut coating, these bite-sized sweets serve serious nostalgia, bright flavor, and a joyous pop of color. They’re the ultimate mashup of creamy, chewy, and crunchy textures, perfect for sharing or savoring solo (if you don’t want to share, I don’t blame you). Get ready for an irresistibly delicious journey!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Cherry Mash Truffles call for simple yet thoughtful ingredients, each packing its own punch of flavor and character. These classic additions transform ordinary candy into a candy-shop-worthy indulgence that’s surprisingly easy to whip up at home.
- Maraschino Cherries: The sweet, jewel-like cherries bring just the right amount of fruitiness and a rosy pink hue to the center.
- Powdered Sugar: This helps bind the filling while adding a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter makes the cherry center rich and luscious — be sure it’s room temperature for easy mixing.
- Almond Extract: Just a splash gives authentic Cherry Mash flavor with a sophisticated aroma.
- Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and amplifies the fruit and chocolate notes.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These melt down into a silky shell, letting all the other flavors shine.
- Creamy Peanut Butter: Peanut butter adds that signature nutty taste, marrying chocolate and cherry in unbeatable harmony.
- Chopped Peanuts: For an authentic finish and irresistible crunch, plus a classic Cherry Mash truffle texture.
How to Make Cherry Mash Truffles
Step 1: Make the Cherry Center
Start by combining your maraschino cherries, powdered sugar, softened butter, almond extract, and salt in a medium bowl. Mix everything together until a thick, pliable dough forms. Don’t panic if it seems sticky at first — the sugar will soak up the cherry juice, bringing the mixture together in no time and filling your kitchen with the dreamiest aroma.
Step 2: Chill the Filling
Transfer the cherry mixture to the refrigerator and chill it for about 30 minutes. This rest period is more than just a pause; it firms up the filling for easy rolling. Take this opportunity to prep your baking sheet with parchment paper (and maybe taste-test a cherry or two).
Step 3: Shape the Truffles
Once the filling is firm, scoop out portions and roll them into 1-inch balls. Line them up on your prepared baking sheet, spaced just slightly apart. Pop the tray in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes, which is the secret to getting that perfect, crackly chocolate shell later on.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate-Peanut Coating
While your cherry balls set, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter together in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until you’re rewarded with a glossy, smooth mixture. Stir in the chopped peanuts for a crunchy element that pairs beautifully with the creamy chocolate.
Step 5: Dip and Finish
Working quickly, use a fork or toothpick to dip each cherry ball into the chocolate-peanut mixture. Let the excess drip off before returning them to the baking sheet. Once all your truffles are coated, chill them in the fridge for about 15 minutes until set. The result? Cherry Mash Truffles with glistening, nutty exteriors and that signature cherry center waiting to be discovered.
How to Serve Cherry Mash Truffles
Garnishes
A flourish of garnishes can turn your Cherry Mash Truffles into instant eye-catchers. Consider a sprinkle of extra chopped peanuts or a kiss of edible glitter on top before the chocolate sets. A halved maraschino cherry perched on each truffle not only hints at the pink surprise inside but makes for a picture-perfect finish!
Side Dishes
While Cherry Mash Truffles are wonderful all on their own, pairing them is half the fun. Set them alongside a bowl of fresh berries or a plate of buttery shortbread cookies for a charming dessert spread. For a grown-up touch, serve with a cup of dark-roast coffee or a flute of sparkling wine — every bite becomes its own celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation matters, especially for homemade candies! Nestle each truffle in a mini cupcake liner for easy serving, or stack them in a mason jar tied with rustic ribbon for a heartfelt gift. For parties, arrange your Cherry Mash Truffles on a tiered stand, or use them as edible toppers on a celebration cake for extra flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftover Cherry Mash Truffles in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator, where they’ll happily keep for up to a week. Layer parchment paper between rows to prevent sticking and to keep those chocolate shells pristine.
Freezing
Great news for planners: Cherry Mash Truffles freeze beautifully! Place the finished truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag or container. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to two months, letting you pull out a homemade treat anytime.
Reheating
For best flavor and texture, let your frozen truffles thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid microwaving or reheating, as the chocolate could melt and lose that delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Fresh cherries will add lots of moisture and might not produce that classic flavor or texture. Maraschino cherries are key for the iconic Cherry Mash Truffles taste and that pretty pink color, so I definitely recommend sticking with them!
Is it possible to make these nut-free?
Absolutely! If you want nut-free Cherry Mash Truffles, simply omit the chopped peanuts and swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or another spread you enjoy. The truffles will still be rich and satisfying.
What chocolate works best for the coating?
You can use either semi-sweet or milk chocolate, depending on your preference. For a more authentic Cherry Mash flavor, try milk chocolate, but semi-sweet offers a balanced richness that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
Will the truffles hold up at room temperature?
Cherry Mash Truffles are best enjoyed slightly chilled, but they’ll be fine sitting at room temperature for several hours at a gathering. If your kitchen is very warm, keep them cool to prevent the chocolate from getting too soft.
Can I double or halve the recipe?
Yes! This recipe doubles or halves effortlessly, making it easy to scale for parties, gift-giving, or just a small family treat. Adjust chilling times as needed if making larger or smaller batches.
Final Thoughts
Homemade candies always feel like a little extra effort and a whole lot of love, and Cherry Mash Truffles are no exception. They’re a surefire way to spread joy, impress friends, and treat yourself to something special. Give them a try — one bite and you’ll understand why this recipe is a forever favorite in my kitchen!
