Description
These Cherry Mash Truffles are delightful bite-sized treats featuring a creamy cherry filling coated in a rich peanut butter chocolate shell with crunchy peanuts. Perfect for parties or a sweet snack, they combine the sweetness of maraschino cherries with decadent chocolate and peanut butter for an irresistible flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Cherry Filling
- 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 using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter, continuing to beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mix in Cherries and Vanilla: Stir in the finely chopped maraschino cherries and vanilla extract until fully incorporated, creating a cherry-flavored dough.
- Form Cherry Balls: Roll the cherry mixture into 1-inch diameter balls with your hands and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Freeze Cherry Balls: Freeze the cherry balls for at least 1 hour until they are firm enough to handle for coating.
- Prepare Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, and creamy peanut butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add Peanuts: Stir the chopped peanuts into the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture to add crunchy texture.
- Coat the Truffles: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each frozen cherry ball into the melted chocolate mixture making sure it is completely coated.
- Place on Parchment: Transfer the coated truffles back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet to set.
- Refrigerate to Set: Refrigerate the coated truffles for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate coating is firm and solid.
- Store and Serve: Once set, store the truffles in an airtight container and serve chilled or at room temperature for a rich, delicious treat.
Notes
- Ensure cherries are finely chopped so the filling is smooth and easy to roll.
- Freezing the cherry balls before dipping helps the coating stick better and prevents melting.
- You can substitute chopped peanuts with other nuts or omit them for a nut-free version.
- Store truffles in the refrigerator for up to one week for optimal freshness.
- For a glossy finish, temper the chocolate chips before adding peanut butter.
