Description
Delightfully rich and creamy Cherry Mash Truffles combine tangy maraschino cherries with smooth butter and powdered sugar, coated in a luscious blend of semisweet and milk chocolates mixed with creamy peanut butter and crunchy chopped peanuts. These no-bake truffles are perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent homemade treat.
Ingredients
Cherry Mixture
- 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, ensuring a light and fluffy texture for the truffle base.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter, beating continuously until the mixture is silky and smooth without any lumps.
- Mix in Cherries and Vanilla: Stir in the finely chopped maraschino cherries along with the vanilla extract, combining thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the mixture.
- Shape the Truffle Centers: Roll the cherry mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands or a small scoop, then place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Freeze the Balls: Freeze the cherry balls for at least 1 hour or until they are firm enough to handle for coating.
- Prepare 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 completely 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, carefully dip each frozen cherry ball into the chocolate-peanut coating, ensuring it is fully covered for a decadent exterior.
- Set and Chill: Place each coated truffle back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate is completely firm.
- Store and Serve: Transfer the set truffles to an airtight container and keep refrigerated until serving to maintain freshness and the perfect texture.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is fully softened to achieve a creamy base without lumps.
- Freezing the cherry balls before dipping helps prevent melting and allows a smooth chocolate coating.
- Use parchment paper on the baking sheet for easy removal and minimal mess.
- Store the truffles in the fridge to keep the chocolate firm and preserve freshness.
- For a nut-free version, omit the chopped peanuts and peanut butter and substitute with white chocolate chips for the coating.