Description
Cherry Mash Truffles are a delightful no-bake confection combining the sweet and tangy flavor of maraschino cherries with a creamy butter and powdered sugar base, coated in a luscious blend of semisweet and milk chocolate mixed with peanut butter and crunchy peanuts. These bite-sized treats are perfect for gifting or serving at parties and are chilled to set for a smooth, rich finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Cherry Filling
- 1 (10 oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup chopped peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherry Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth, creating a rich base for the filling.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter, beating thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mix in Cherries and Vanilla: Stir in the finely chopped maraschino cherries along with the vanilla extract until the entire mixture is evenly blended, ensuring every bite will have cherry flavor.
- Form the Balls: Roll the cherry mixture into 1-inch diameter balls and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Freeze the Balls: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 1 hour to firm up the cherry balls, making them easier to coat with chocolate.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, and creamy peanut butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Add Peanuts: Stir the chopped peanuts into the melted chocolate mixture to add a crunchy texture to the coating.
- Coat the Truffles: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each frozen cherry ball into the chocolate coating, fully covering it in the chocolate-peanut mixture.
- Place on Baking Sheet: Return the coated truffles to the parchment-lined baking sheet carefully to set without losing shape.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the coated truffles for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate coating is firm and set.
- Store and Serve: Once the truffles are firm, transfer them to an airtight container and keep refrigerated until ready to serve for optimal freshness and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the maraschino cherries are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
- Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and ease cleanup.
- For a smoother coating, stir chocolate mixture thoroughly after each microwave interval.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For firmer truffles, freeze again after coating before chilling.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American