Cherry Mash Truffles

Cherry Mash Truffles are a homemade version of the classic Cherry Mash candy bar, featuring a rich cherry-flavored center coated in a crunchy chocolate and peanut shell. These bite-sized treats offer a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making them a great dessert for holidays, parties, or gifting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A nostalgic take on the classic Cherry Mash candy bar
• Perfect bite-sized treats for any occasion
• No baking required—just mix, chill, and coat in chocolate
• Customizable with different coatings and flavors
• Great for making ahead and storing for later

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Maraschino cherries
• Powdered sugar
• Butter
• Cherry extract
• Vanilla extract
• Sweetened condensed milk
• White chocolate or almond bark
• Chopped peanuts
• Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips

Directions

1. Prepare the cherry filling: Finely chop the maraschino cherries and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine butter, powdered sugar, cherry extract, vanilla extract, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir in the chopped cherries and mix until smooth.
3. Chill the mixture: Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Shape into balls: Once chilled, scoop out small portions and roll them into bite-sized balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet and freeze for another 30 minutes.
5. Prepare the chocolate coating: Melt the white chocolate or almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth.
6. Dip the cherry centers: Coat each cherry ball in the melted white chocolate and place them back on the baking sheet. Let them set.
7. Make the peanut-chocolate coating: Melt semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips and stir in chopped peanuts for a crunchy coating.
8. Final coating: Dip the set truffles into the peanut-chocolate mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Let them harden before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 20-24 truffles
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Chill time: 1 hour
• Total time: About 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Skip the chopped peanuts or use crushed pretzels for crunch.
• Extra Cherry Flavor: Add cherry liqueur or cherry jam for a stronger cherry taste.
• Dark Chocolate Coating: Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Coconut Twist: Roll the cherry filling in shredded coconut before dipping in chocolate.
• Holiday Version: Decorate with red and white sprinkles for a festive look.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Serving Tip: Let truffles sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating for the best texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Maraschino cherries provide the classic flavor, but you can use finely chopped fresh cherries—just make sure to drain excess moisture.

2. How do I make the truffles extra smooth?

Chill the filling thoroughly before rolling to keep them firm and easy to shape.

3. Can I use white chocolate for the final coating?

Yes! If you prefer, coat them in white chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts or sprinkles.

4. How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?

Let the first chocolate layer fully set before dipping into the peanut-chocolate mixture.

5. Can I make these truffles without sweetened condensed milk?

Yes! Use softened cream cheese or coconut cream for a similar consistency.

6. What’s the best way to melt the chocolate?

Use a microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, or melt it over a double boiler.

7. Can I add food coloring to the filling?

Yes! A few drops of red food coloring can enhance the cherry look.

8. How do I make them extra crunchy?

Use finely chopped roasted peanuts or mix in crushed graham crackers for extra texture.

9. Are these good for gifting?

Absolutely! Package them in decorative boxes or tins for a sweet homemade gift.

10. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for prepping in advance.

Conclusion

Cherry Mash Truffles are a delightful homemade treat that brings together the sweet, fruity taste of cherries with a rich chocolate-peanut crunch. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just for yourself, they’re sure to be a hit. Try this easy no-bake recipe and enjoy a bite of nostalgia!

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