These Cherry Mash Truffles are a delightful fusion of tart maraschino cherries, creamy peanut butter, and a luscious chocolate coating. They bring together the rich flavors of chocolate and peanuts, balanced by the sweetness of cherries, creating the ultimate indulgence. These truffles are perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or simply enjoying as a special treat.
Ingredients
For the Cherry Filling:
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1 (10 oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped
- Maraschino cherries lend a sweet, slightly tart flavor and juicy texture that forms the base of the truffle filling.
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2 cups powdered sugar
- Powdered sugar gives the filling its smooth texture, ensuring the truffles are soft and easy to bite into.
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- Butter is the key to making the cherry filling creamy and smooth, acting as a binding agent and enhancing the texture.
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vanilla adds a warm, aromatic note that complements the sweetness of the cherries.
For the Chocolate Coating:
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1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- The semisweet chocolate provides a rich, deep chocolate flavor that balances the sweetness of the cherry filling.
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1 cup milk chocolate chips
- Milk chocolate adds a creaminess and smoothness to the coating, enhancing the overall flavor of the truffles.
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½ cup creamy peanut butter
- Peanut butter brings richness and a savory depth to the chocolate coating, perfectly complementing the sweet cherry filling.
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1 cup chopped peanuts
- Chopped peanuts add a crunchy texture to the coating, giving the truffles a satisfying bite and enhancing their flavor with a hint of saltiness.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling
- Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or hand whisk to beat the softened butter until it becomes creamy and smooth. This creates a light, fluffy base for the filling.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until the mixture is completely smooth. The powdered sugar will dissolve easily into the butter, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Incorporate the Cherries and Vanilla: Stir in the finely chopped maraschino cherries and vanilla extract until fully combined. The cherries should be finely chopped to prevent the filling from being too chunky and to ensure that each bite has an even distribution of cherry flavor.
- Shape the Balls: Roll the cherry mixture into 1-inch balls. You can use your hands or a small cookie scoop to portion the mixture. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Freeze the Balls: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 1 hour to allow the cherry balls to firm up. This step is crucial to make the truffles easier to dip into the chocolate coating.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Coating
- Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, and creamy peanut butter. Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Add Crunch: Once the chocolate-peanut butter mixture is smooth, stir in the chopped peanuts. The peanuts provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth chocolate coating.
Step 3: Coat the Truffles
- Dip the Cherry Balls: Once the cherry filling has frozen and is firm, use a fork or toothpick to dip each cherry ball into the melted chocolate coating. Make sure the cherry balls are fully coated in the chocolate mixture.
- Set the Coated Truffles: Place the coated truffles back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. The parchment will prevent the truffles from sticking as the chocolate sets.
Step 4: Set and Serve
- Let the Chocolate Firm Up: Refrigerate the truffles for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate coating is firm to the touch.
- Storage: Once the chocolate has set, transfer the truffles to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze the truffles for up to 2 months, just make sure to let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Helpful Tips for Success:
- For Decorative Touches: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the set truffles to create a beautiful, contrasting finish. You can also sprinkle extra chopped peanuts or colorful sprinkles to make the truffles more festive.
- Storage Tip: These truffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for long-term storage, which is perfect for making ahead of time for parties or gifting.
- Make It Even Richer: If you love a richer chocolate experience, add a small pinch of sea salt to the chocolate coating for a salted-chocolate flavor contrast with the sweet cherry center.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 24 truffles
These Cherry Mash Truffles are the perfect indulgent treat, combining the tartness of cherries, the creaminess of peanut butter, and the richness of chocolate in each bite. They’re perfect for gifting or keeping as a sweet personal treat!