If you love the nostalgic flavors of classic candy bars but want the delight of making them yourself, Cherry Mash Truffles are a must-try treat! Imagine juicy maraschino cherries, coconut, powdered sugar, and vanilla nestled inside a dreamy layer of smooth chocolate and crunchy salted peanuts. These no-bake truffles are easy enough for beginner candy-makers but have the look and taste of a special occasion dessert. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, as gifts, or just for a sweet weekend project, Cherry Mash Truffles will absolutely wow anyone who takes a bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cherry Mash Truffles is in its handful of cheerful, straightforward ingredients. Each one brings a unique note to this candy: from pop-of-flavor cherries to creamy chocolate, every element is essential to achieve that signature taste and texture.
- Maraschino cherries (1 10-oz jar, drained and chopped): These give the truffles their sweet-tart cherry punch and a gorgeous pink hue.
- Powdered sugar (3 cups): Blends smoothly into the filling, creating a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center.
- Sweetened shredded coconut (1 cup): Adds a subtle chewy texture and mild tropical sweetness that balances the cherries.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor, making each bite taste truly homemade and fragrant.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Lends depth and a touch of bitterness to offset the sweetness in the center.
- Milk chocolate chips (1 cup): Brings extra creaminess and a familiar candy-bar profile to the outer shell.
- Vegetable shortening or coconut oil (2 tbsp): Helps the chocolate melt silky-smooth and set with a glossy finish.
- Chopped salted peanuts (1 cup): Give every truffle a delightfully nutty crunch and a hit of salty contrast.
How to Make Cherry Mash Truffles
Step 1: Make the Cherry Filling
Start by combining your chopped maraschino cherries, powdered sugar, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. The mixture will seem sticky at first, but keep stirring until it transforms into a thick, doughy consistency. This gorgeous pink mixture will form the sweet heart of your Cherry Mash Truffles.
Step 2: Shape and Chill the Centers
With clean hands, scoop out approximately 1-inch portions of the cherry mixture and roll them into balls. Place each one on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch. Once you’ve rolled them all, pop the tray in the freezer for 30 to 40 minutes. This quick freeze helps the centers hold their shape for easy dipping later.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate and Peanuts
While the cherry centers chill, place the semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, and vegetable shortening or coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring well after each until completely melted and silky. Stir in the chopped salted peanuts, making sure they’re evenly mixed in for the ultimate sweet-and-salty crunch.
Step 4: Enrobe the Cherry Centers
Retrieve your chilled cherry balls and, using a fork or dipping tool, dunk each one into the melted chocolate-peanut mixture. Swirl to coat all over, then gently lift out and set back on the parchment. Work quickly so the centers stay firm and the chocolate coats evenly. Continue until all your Cherry Mash Truffles are cloaked in chocolate.
Step 5: Set and Serve
After the truffles are dipped, let them set at room temperature or transfer the tray to the fridge if you want to speed things up. Once the chocolate shell is completely firm, your Cherry Mash Truffles are ready to serve. Each bite is a burst of juicy cherry and nutty chocolate bliss!
How to Serve Cherry Mash Truffles
Garnishes
For extra flair, top each truffle with a sprinkle of finely chopped peanuts, an extra drizzle of melted chocolate, or even a petite piece of maraschino cherry. This finishing touch makes every Cherry Mash Truffle look as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Pair these candies with a cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or sparkling cherry soda for a fun dessert moment. They’re also fantastic alongside a fruit platter or simple vanilla ice cream—the cool sweetness makes the truffles really pop.
Creative Ways to Present
You can arrange Cherry Mash Truffles in a candy box for gifting, pile them high on a cake stand for a festive centerpiece, or pop them into mini cupcake wrappers for a party tray. Try stacking them in clear jars, tied with ribbon, for charming edible favors at showers or holiday gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cherry Mash Truffles are perfect for making in advance—you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just layer parchment or wax paper between the truffles to prevent sticking. They taste dreamy cold or at room temp!
Freezing
Want to keep them even longer? Freeze Cherry Mash Truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag with layers separated by parchment paper. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months and thaw quickly when you need a little treat.
Reheating
These candies shine straight from the fridge or after thawing at room temperature—no reheating needed! If you prefer a softer bite, let them sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving. Warm chocolate is never a bad idea, but here, cool and creamy works best.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
For classic flavor and color, maraschino cherries work best, as they’re sweet and juicy enough to bind the filling. Fresh cherries can be used, but you’ll want to add a bit more sugar and chop them very fine for the right texture.
Is it possible to make Cherry Mash Truffles nut-free?
Absolutely! For a nut-free version, simply leave out the peanuts or swap in toasted coconut for crunch. You can also try chopped pretzels or a crispy rice cereal for a fun variation.
What if I don’t have a microwave?
No worries—melt the chocolate chips and shortening in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water (double boiler style), stirring until smooth, then mix in the peanuts and proceed as directed.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk and semi-sweet?
Of course! Dark chocolate adds intensity and pairs beautifully with cherries. You can substitute it for either or both chip varieties, especially if you love a less-sweet treat.
How do I get a perfectly smooth chocolate coating?
The key is using shortening or coconut oil, which helps the chocolate melt evenly and coat smoothly. Make sure your cherry centers are well-chilled and work in batches if needed, returning unused centers to the freezer as you dip.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably special about sharing a homemade treat, and these Cherry Mash Truffles are pure retro joy in candy form. With every chewy, chocolatey, cherry-studded bite, you’ll be hooked—and so will anyone lucky enough to try them. Give this recipe a go and let your kitchen fill with sweet anticipation, one delicious truffle at a time!
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Cherry Mash Truffles Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling)
- Yield: 24 truffles 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the sweet and nutty delight of these Cherry Mash Truffles. A perfect blend of maraschino cherries, coconut, and chocolate, these no-bake treats are a decadent delight for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cherry Mash Truffles:
- 1 (10 oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp vegetable shortening or coconut oil
- 1 cup chopped salted peanuts
Instructions
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine chopped maraschino cherries, powdered sugar, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and dough-like.
- Form truffles: Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 30–40 minutes until firm.
- Prepare chocolate coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips with shortening in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in chopped peanuts.
- Coat truffles: Dip chilled cherry centers into chocolate mixture, coating completely, and place back on the baking sheet. Chill until chocolate is fully set.
- Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a more intense cherry flavor, add a splash of the maraschino cherry juice to the filling.
- You can also use dark chocolate for a richer taste.
- Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 truffle
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 35 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
