Cherry Mash Truffles are rich, nostalgic treats inspired by the classic candy bar. These truffles combine a sweet, creamy cherry center with a crunchy chocolate–peanut coating. The filling is soft, smooth, and bursting with cherry flavor, while the outside shell adds texture and sweetness. Because the truffles require no baking, they come together easily and look beautiful on dessert trays. They are perfect for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or any celebration where you want festive candy with bold flavor. Every bite delivers a creamy cherry middle surrounded by chocolate, making them irresistible to anyone who loves old-fashioned candies.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Mash Truffles
The cherry center is creamy and sweet. The chocolate coating adds crunch. The peanuts add texture. The recipe is simple. The ingredients are easy to find. The truffles store well. They look bright and festive. Kids enjoy the sweet flavor. Adults appreciate the nostalgic taste. In addition, they make great gifts during the holidays.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
You should try this recipe if you enjoy cherry candy, creamy truffle centers, or chocolate–peanut combinations. The mixture blends quickly and forms a soft filling that holds its shape well. The coating provides a perfect contrast to the sweet cherry middle. These truffles make great additions to dessert boards, party trays, and homemade candy boxes. They also freeze well, so you can make them ahead for holidays and events.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Cherry Filling
1 cup white chocolate chips
½ cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
6–8 drops red gel food coloring
¾ cup chopped maraschino cherries (drained well)
½ cup powdered sugar, more if needed
Chocolate Coating
1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
¾ cup chopped peanuts
How to Make This Cherry Mash Truffles (Detailed)
1. Prepare the Cherries
Drain maraschino cherries well. Pat them dry with paper towels. Excess liquid can make the filling too soft.
2. Melt the White Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate in 20–30 second intervals. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Mix the Filling
Add sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, almond extract, and red food coloring to the melted chocolate. Stir until fully combined and bright pink.
4. Add the Cherries
Fold in the chopped cherries. Mix gently to keep small pieces intact.
5. Thicken the Mixture
Add powdered sugar gradually. Stir until the mixture becomes thick, soft, and easy to shape.
6. Chill the Filling
Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. Chilling helps firm the mixture and prevents sticking.
7. Shape the Truffles
Scoop small portions of the mixture. Roll each scoop into a smooth ball. Place the truffle centers on a parchment-lined baking pan.
8. Melt the Chocolate
Melt semisweet chocolate chips over a double boiler or in short microwave bursts until completely smooth.
9. Add the Peanuts
Stir chopped peanuts into the melted chocolate. Mix until evenly coated.
10. Dip the Truffles
Drop each chilled cherry center into the chocolate–peanut mixture. Lift with a fork. Tap gently to remove excess coating.
11. Chill and Set
Place coated truffles on parchment paper. Refrigerate for 25–30 minutes or until the shell is firm.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per truffle)
Calories: 150
Fat: 7g
Carbs: 19g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 40mg
Tips for the Best Cherry Mash Truffles (Detailed)
Drain the cherries completely to avoid excess moisture. Dry them thoroughly for the best texture. Add powdered sugar slowly to control thickness. Chill the filling until firm before rolling. Use gel food coloring for vibrant color without thinning. Chop peanuts finely for smoother coating. Rewarm chocolate if it thickens. Work quickly to keep the cherry centers firm during dipping.
Variations & Substitutions
Use dark chocolate instead of semisweet. Swap peanuts for almonds or pecans. Add shredded coconut to the filling. Add cherry extract for a stronger flavor. Drizzle with white chocolate for decoration. Use pink melting wafers for extra color. Roll truffles in coconut instead of chocolate coating.
What to Serve with Cherry Mash Truffles
Serve with hot cocoa, coffee, or espresso. Add them to Christmas candy boards. Pair with fudge, peanut butter balls, or marshmallow treats. They also make beautiful additions to Valentine’s Day dessert boxes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not skip drying the cherries—they add excess moisture. Avoid using liquid food coloring, which can thin the mixture. Do not roll the centers before chilling. Avoid overheating chocolate or it may seize. Do not store truffles uncovered. Avoid stacking before the coating sets fully.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Freeze for up to two months. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Keep chilled to maintain the perfect texture.
Conclusion
Cherry Mash Truffles are creamy, colorful, and full of nostalgic cherry candy flavor. The sweet cherry center blends beautifully with the crunchy chocolate–peanut shell. These truffles are simple to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for holidays, parties, and homemade gifts. Once you try them, they will become a favorite festive treat for your family.
10 Recipe FAQ’s
1. Can I use fresh cherries? No, maraschino cherries work best.
2. Can I skip the food coloring? Yes, but the truffles will be lighter in color.
3. Can I freeze these truffles? Yes, freeze up to two months.
4. Why is my filling too soft? Add more powdered sugar and chill again.
5. Can I use milk chocolate? Yes, any chocolate works.
6. Should the cherries be chopped small? Yes, small pieces mix better.
7. Can I use coconut instead of peanuts? Yes, for a softer coating.
8. Why did my coating thicken? The chocolate cooled; gently reheat it.
9. Can I make them ahead? Yes, prepare 1–2 days early.
10. How many truffles does this recipe make? Around 20–24 truffles.