Introduction

Cherry Mash Truffles are a delightful treat that combine the sweet, tangy flavor of maraschino cherries with a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Coated in a smooth chocolate shell, these truffles offer nostalgia with a gourmet twist. Perfect for a homemade candy gift or an indulgent snack.

A close-up view of round chocolate-covered treats on a wooden surface with a white marbled background, each coated with smooth, shiny milk chocolate and decorated with thin chocolate drizzle lines on top. Some pieces have small bits of white coconut flakes and light brown nuts sprinkled over them. One treat is split open, showing three visible layers inside: a creamy pink layer with a textured, soft look on the outside, a bright red cherry center with a juicy, smooth texture in the middle, and a smooth chocolate coating on the outside. The scene is bright and clear, highlighting the rich colors and textures of the treats. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (10 oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped
2 cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional shell: 12 oz semisweet chocolate chips
Optional shell: 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening

Instructions

Step 1: Drain the maraschino cherries in a colander, then spread them on paper towels. Press gently with more paper towels to remove excess moisture until they no longer weep. Finely chop the dry cherries into small pieces.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with a mixer until pale and creamy, about one minute. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing slowly to avoid a sugar dust cloud. The mixture should resemble thick frosting.
Step 3: Gently fold in the chopped cherries with a spatula. Check the consistency; it should be thick enough to scoop. If too sticky, add more powdered sugar 1 tablespoon at a time until manageable.
Step 4: Refrigerate the mixture for 20-30 minutes to firm up and make rolling easier.
Step 5: Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the mixture and roll between your palms into smooth balls. Dust hands with powdered sugar if sticky. Place balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Freeze the truffle balls on the baking sheet for 15 minutes to chill solidly before dipping.
Step 7: Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil or shortening in a double boiler or microwave. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth and glossy.
Step 8: Dip each chilled truffle ball into the melted chocolate using a fork, coating evenly. Tap off excess chocolate and place back on parchment paper. Optionally, use a second fork to create a swirl on top.
Step 9: Let coated truffles set at room temperature if cool, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm completely before serving.

Tips & Variations

Do not skip draining and drying the cherries thoroughly to ensure a firm truffle center.
If the truffle mixture is too soft, add additional powdered sugar in small increments until scoopable.
Use almond extract (about ¼ teaspoon) in place of some vanilla extract for an enhanced cherry mash flavor.
For a smoother chocolate coating, coconut oil or shortening thins the melted chocolate and helps it set with a professional finish.

Storage

Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Allow them to come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before eating for the best texture. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows dark chocolate-covered balls with a shiny, slightly uneven texture. Inside, there is a thick, light pink filling that looks soft and creamy, visible in two balls that are cut in half and placed on top. Each chocolate ball is decorated on top with a small, bright red cherry. The sweets rest on a smooth white plate on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries have much higher moisture content and will alter the texture, making the mixture too soft. Maraschino cherries are recommended because they provide the right flavor and firmness when properly dried.

What if my truffle mixture is too sticky to roll?

If the mixture is sticky, dust your hands with powdered sugar and add a little more powdered sugar to the mixture, a tablespoon at a time, until it becomes easier to handle.