If you adore the perfect blend of rich peanut butter, nostalgic cherries, and decadent chocolate, you are in for such a treat with this Cherry Mash Truffles Recipe. These bite-sized gems bring together creamy, crunchy, and fruity elements in a way that feels both indulgent and wonderfully homey. Whether you’re looking to impress friends at a gathering or simply crave a sweet pick-me-up, these truffles offer the kind of satisfying flavor and texture combination that keeps everyone coming back for more. Let me take you through making this delightful classic that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cherry Mash Truffles Recipe starts with its simple and well-balanced ingredients. Each one plays a special role in creating the perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color that make these truffles so irresistible.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The creamy base that provides richness and a smooth texture.
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped: Adds a sweet, fruity burst with a gorgeous pop of color.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the mix and helps achieve a firm but tender consistency.
- 1 cup rice cereal: Lends a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional): A small addition that deepens the overall flavor with a subtle nuttiness.
- 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips: Creates a luscious, slightly bittersweet coating (milk chocolate can be a sweeter alternative).
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Smooths out the melted chocolate for an even, glossy finish.
- Extra chopped maraschino cherries (optional): For a pretty garnish and added fruity punch.
- Sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional): Bring in additional texture and visual appeal.
How to Make Cherry Mash Truffles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Truffle Filling
Start by combining the creamy peanut butter and finely chopped maraschino cherries in a large bowl. This pairing forms the luscious core of your truffles, marrying the classic flavor duo everyone loves. The cherries add bursts of juiciness while the peanut butter gives that silky richness you just cannot resist.
Step 2: Add the Crunch
Next, gently fold in the powdered sugar and rice cereal until everything is evenly coated. These ingredients bring both sweetness and that delightful crunch to your truffles. If you decide to include almond extract, now is the perfect moment to stir it in. Its subtle hint of depth makes each bite taste even more special.
Step 3: Shape the Truffles
Once the mixture holds together nicely, shape it into small, bite-sized balls with your hands. This part is seriously fun, especially if you’re making them with family or friends. Each truffle should be compact enough to hold but soft enough to melt in your mouth.
Step 4: Chill
Place the truffle balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling firms them up so they will be easier to dip later and keeps their shape perfectly intact.
Step 5: Coat in Chocolate
Melt the chocolate chips with the vegetable oil until smooth and glossy. Using a fork or dipping tool, dunk each chilled truffle completely in the melted chocolate, making sure it’s fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing it back on the lined sheet.
Step 6: Add a Finish and Set
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle your choice of extra chopped cherries, colorful sprinkles, or crunchy nuts on top. This final touch adds personality and makes each truffle look like a little work of art. Return the truffles to the fridge for at least another 30 minutes to let the chocolate fully harden.
How to Serve Cherry Mash Truffles Recipe
Garnishes
For serving, fresh or candied cherries on top add a vibrant pop and hint at the delectable cherry goodness inside. Sprinkles or finely chopped nuts provide a festive, celebratory flair, ideal for parties or special occasions.
Side Dishes
These truffles are rich, so they pair beautifully with a light cup of coffee, herbal tea, or even a sparkling citrus beverage that refreshes your palate. Serve alongside fresh fruit for a balanced dessert spread that leaves everyone happy and satisfied.
Creative Ways to Present
Try placing your Cherry Mash Truffles Recipe on a decorative tray with colorful doilies or in mini cupcake liners for a charming look. For gift-giving, arrange them in a pretty box with tissue paper and a handmade tag. These thoughtful touches make enjoying or sharing these truffles feel even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your truffles fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay delicious for up to a week, making them a perfect treat to savor slowly or to prepare ahead for gatherings.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead of time or save some for later, Cherry Mash Truffles freeze wonderfully. Place them in a single layer on a tray until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since these are best enjoyed chilled, reheating isn’t necessary. Just let any frozen truffles thaw thoroughly before serving so the chocolate is smooth and the center creamy and tasty.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Natural peanut butter can be used but may alter the texture slightly since it’s less creamy and more oily. You might need to adjust the powdered sugar to get the right consistency.
What if I don’t have maraschino cherries?
You can substitute with dried cherries or fresh cherries finely chopped, though the sweet syrup flavor from maraschino cherries is unique and traditional here.
Is almond extract necessary?
Almond extract is optional but highly recommended for adding a subtle, rich flavor that complements both the cherry and peanut butter. If you skip it, the truffles will still be delicious.
Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely! White chocolate gives a sweeter, creamier coating that pairs nicely with the cherries and peanut butter. Just be sure to melt it gently to avoid scorching.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing while melting?
Using a small amount of vegetable oil helps keep the chocolate smooth and prevents seizing. Melt gently over low heat or use a microwave in short bursts with stirring in between.
Final Thoughts
Making the Cherry Mash Truffles Recipe is like creating little bites of joy that carry a bit of nostalgia with every piece. They’re perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply indulging yourself on a quiet afternoon. With straightforward steps and ingredients you likely already have, these truffles are a no-fuss way to brighten up your dessert repertoire. Give them a try — I promise they’ll become a fast favorite!
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Cherry Mash Truffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Mash Truffles are a delightful no-bake treat combining creamy peanut butter, maraschino cherries, powdered sugar, and crispy rice cereal, coated in rich melted chocolate. These bite-sized truffles offer a perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and fruity flavors with a satisfying crunch and smooth chocolate coating, making them an ideal homemade dessert or gift.
Ingredients
Truffle Filling
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup rice cereal
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Chocolate Coating
- 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips (or milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Optional Garnishes
- Extra chopped maraschino cherries
- Sprinkles or chopped nuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Truffle Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and finely chopped maraschino cherries until smooth and well blended.
- Add the Crunch: Gently fold in the powdered sugar and rice cereal, stirring until everything is evenly coated. If using almond extract, add it now for extra depth of flavor.
- Shape the Truffles: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill: Refrigerate the truffle balls for about 30 minutes to firm up, making them easier to coat with chocolate.
- Coat in Chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips with vegetable oil in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
- Dip and Coat: Using a fork, dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring complete coverage. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing the truffle back onto the parchment-lined sheet.
- Add a Finish: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle additional chopped cherries, sprinkles, or chopped nuts on top for decoration and extra texture.
- Set the Truffles: Return the chocolate-coated truffles to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes until the chocolate coating is firm.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once set, serve the truffles chilled. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- You can substitute milk chocolate for dark chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.
- Be sure to drain and chop the maraschino cherries finely to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
- The almond extract is optional but adds a nice complementary flavor to the peanut butter and cherries.
- If the chocolate starts to harden while dipping, gently reheat it to keep it smooth for coating.
- Store the truffles in a cool place or refrigerator to maintain their shape and texture.
