Description
Delight in these Cherry Mash Truffles, a luscious combination of maraschino cherries blended with buttery sweetness and powdered sugar, encased in a creamy chocolate and peanut coating. These no-bake treats offer a perfect balance of fruity and nutty flavors, ideal for dessert lovers seeking an easy yet elegant indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
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 to create a smooth base for the cherry mixture.
- Add Sugar and Mix: Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar into the butter, beating continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate Cherries and Flavor: Stir in the finely chopped maraschino cherries along with the vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Form Cherry Balls: Roll the cherry mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Freeze the Cherry Balls: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 1 hour or until the balls are firm enough to handle for coating.
- Melt Chocolate and Peanut Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, and creamy peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring after each session until the mixture is smooth and fluid.
- Add Chopped Peanuts: Stir the chopped peanuts into the melted chocolate mixture to add texture and a nutty flavor layer to the coating.
- Coat the Cherry Balls: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each frozen cherry ball into the melted chocolate and peanut mixture, ensuring a full and even coating.
- Set Coated Truffles: Place the coated truffles back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, preparing them for final setting.
- Refrigerate: Refrigerate the truffles for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate coating has hardened and set completely.
- Store and Serve: Transfer the fully set truffles to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve, maintaining freshness and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cherries are finely chopped for the best texture inside the truffles.
- Freezing the cherry balls before coating helps achieve a smooth chocolate layer without melting.
- You can substitute peanuts with other nuts like almonds or walnuts to vary the texture and flavor.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking during freezing and setting.
- Store the truffles in an airtight container to preserve freshness for up to one week.
