Description
Delightful Cherry Mash Truffles combining sweet maraschino cherries with creamy butter and powdered sugar, coated in a rich blend of semisweet and milk chocolate mixed with peanut butter and chopped peanuts for a crunchy finish. Perfect for an elegant dessert or festive treat.
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. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat until smooth. Stir in the finely chopped maraschino cherries and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients uniformly.
- Form Cherry Balls: Roll the cherry mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This shapes the filling into perfect truffle centers.
- Freeze the Cherry Balls: Freeze the formed cherry balls for at least 1 hour, or until they become firm enough to handle for coating.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, and peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Then stir in the chopped peanuts to add texture and crunch.
- Coat the Truffles: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each frozen cherry ball into the melted chocolate mixture, fully covering it. Carefully place the coated truffles back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet to maintain their shape.
- Set and Chill: Refrigerate the coated truffles for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate coating has completely firmed up, ensuring a clean and enjoyable bite.
- Store and Serve: Once set, transfer the truffles to an airtight container and keep refrigerated until ready to serve. Serve chilled for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the maraschino cherries are finely chopped to achieve a smooth filling texture.
- Freezing the cherry balls before coating helps maintain their shape and makes dipping easier.
- For easier chocolate melting, stir frequently and avoid overheating the mixture in the microwave.
- These truffles are best stored in the refrigerator and consumed within one week.
- You can substitute peanuts with other nuts or omit them for a different texture experience.
