Cherry Mash Truffles

Introduction

If you enjoy sweet treats that combine chocolate, cherries, and crunchy nuts, Cherry Mash Truffles are a dessert you will love. These small chocolate candies are inspired by the classic Cherry Mash candy bar. They have a soft cherry center covered with smooth chocolate and a light crunch from peanuts or other nuts. Each bite is rich, sweet, and full of flavor.

Cherry Mash Truffles are great for holidays, parties, or homemade gifts. They look fancy but are actually very easy to make. You do not need special baking skills or equipment. Most of the ingredients are simple and easy to find in the store.

Another reason people love this recipe is that it does not require much baking. Most of the work is mixing, shaping, and chilling the truffles. That makes it a fun recipe to prepare with family members or kids. The bright cherry flavor and creamy chocolate coating create a dessert that feels both special and comforting.

Once you try these truffles, they may quickly become one of your favorite homemade candies.

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Cooking Time & Prep Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1–2 hours
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes (for melting chocolate)
• Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Cherry Filling

• 1 cup maraschino cherries, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons cherry juice (from the jar)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Coating

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable oil

For the Crunchy Topping

• ½ cup roasted peanuts, finely chopped

Tip: Pat the cherries dry with a paper towel before chopping. This helps the filling stay firm.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cherry Filling

Start by draining the maraschino cherries. Place them on a paper towel and gently press to remove extra liquid. This is an important step because too much liquid can make the filling too soft.

Finely chop the cherries and place them in a medium bowl.

Add the powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of cherry juice. Mix everything together until it forms a thick, soft dough.

If the mixture feels sticky, add a little more powdered sugar. The texture should be easy to shape with your hands.

2. Chill the Filling

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 30–45 minutes. Chilling helps the mixture firm up so it is easier to roll into balls.

Small tip: If you are in a hurry, you can place the mixture in the freezer for about 15 minutes instead.

3. Shape the Truffles

Once the filling is firm, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your hands to form a small ball.

Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Repeat until all the mixture is used. You should have about 18–20 truffles depending on their size.

Put the tray in the freezer for 20–30 minutes so the balls become firm before coating them in chocolate.

4. Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil.

Heat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds at a time, stirring between each round. Continue until the chocolate becomes smooth and fully melted.

You can also melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stove if you prefer.

5. Dip the Truffles

Remove the cherry balls from the freezer.

Using a fork or dipping tool, place each ball into the melted chocolate. Roll it gently until it is fully covered.

Lift the truffle out and let the extra chocolate drip back into the bowl.

Place the coated truffle back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.

6. Add the Crunchy Topping

Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle a small amount of chopped peanuts on top of each truffle.

This adds a delicious crunch and makes the truffles look beautiful.

7. Let the Chocolate Set

Place the tray in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes so the chocolate coating can fully harden.

Once the chocolate is firm, the Cherry Mash Truffles are ready to enjoy.

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Tips & Variations

Use Different Nuts
If you do not have peanuts, you can use almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Each nut gives a slightly different flavor.

Try Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate works very well with cherries. It adds a richer taste and slightly less sweetness.

Make Them Vegan
You can replace the butter with plant-based butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

Gluten-Free Option
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of your chocolate and cherries to be sure.

Extra Cherry Flavor
Add a drop or two of cherry extract to the filling for a stronger fruit flavor.

White Chocolate Version
For a different look, coat the truffles in white chocolate instead of dark or semi-sweet chocolate.

Small tip: If the chocolate becomes too thick while dipping, warm it in the microwave for about 10 seconds.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per truffle)

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 2 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Sugar: 15 g
• Fiber: 1 g

Values may vary depending on the ingredients and portion size.

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Health Benefits

Cherry Mash Truffles are a sweet treat, but some ingredients still provide useful nutrients.

Cherries
Cherries contain antioxidants that help protect the body from cell damage. They also contain vitamin C and small amounts of potassium.

Dark Chocolate
Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, contains antioxidants called flavonoids. These may support heart health when eaten in moderation.

Nuts
Peanuts and other nuts provide healthy fats, protein, and minerals such as magnesium.

Homemade Control
Making truffles at home allows you to control the ingredients. You can choose better-quality chocolate or reduce sugar if desired.

Remember that desserts are best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

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Serving Suggestions

Cherry Mash Truffles are best served slightly chilled or at room temperature. The chocolate coating will be firm, while the cherry center stays soft and creamy.

Here are some ways to enjoy them:

• Serve them with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
• Place them in a decorative box as a homemade gift.
• Add them to a dessert tray with cookies and brownies.
• Serve them at parties or holiday gatherings.

Storing the Truffles

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 1 week.

If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Place them in a sealed container with parchment paper between layers.

When ready to eat, let them sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before serving.

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Conclusion

Cherry Mash Truffles are a wonderful homemade dessert that combines sweet cherries, creamy chocolate, and crunchy nuts. They are simple to make, require only a few ingredients, and look beautiful when finished.

This recipe is perfect for beginners, and it is also fun to make with family or friends. With their bright cherry flavor and rich chocolate coating, these truffles are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Give this recipe a try the next time you want a special treat. Share them at a party, bring them to a gathering, or enjoy them at home with loved ones. Once you taste these delicious Cherry Mash Truffles, you may find yourself making them again and again.