Name: Irresistible Cherry Mash Truffles for a Sweet Nostalgic Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup maraschino cherries (well-drained and patted dry); ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar; 8 ounces dark chocolate (high-quality semisweet or baking chocolate); 1 tablespoon edible glitter (for decoration)

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A whiff of nostalgia wafts through the kitchen as I mix up a batch of Easy Cherry Mash Truffles. This delightful treat blends the tart sweetness of cherries with the indulgence of rich chocolate, reviving childhood memories of candy store delights. Not only are these homemade candies a breeze to prepare, but they also make for thoughtful gifts that are sure to impress friends and family. The creamy cherry center promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience, all encased in a luxurious dark chocolate shell. Whether you’re throwing a casual get-together or just craving a sweet indulgence, these truffles check all the boxes. Are you ready to whip up a nostalgic culinary masterpiece that’s as easy as it is delicious?

Why are Cherry Mash Truffles irresistible?

Nostalgic Flavors: Each bite evokes memories of childhood treats, combining sweet cherries with rich chocolate.
Effortless Preparation: This recipe is beginner-friendly, requiring minimal cooking skills and just a few simple ingredients.
Customizable Options: You can swap maraschino cherries for your favorite dried fruit or experiment with different chocolate types for unique flavors.
Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in a cute box or on a decorative plate, making these truffles ideal for holidays or as thoughtful surprises—just like the gooey delights in my Lemon Truffles Tangy.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether serving at a party or enjoying them at home, these truffles are sure to impress everyone!

Cherry Mash Truffles Ingredients

For the Truffle Base

Maraschino Cherries – Ensure they are well-drained and patted dry to avoid a soggy center in your Cherry Mash Truffles.
Butter – Use unsalted butter for better control over your truffles’ flavor and richness.
Powdered Sugar – This ingredient sweetens and smooths the mixture, essential for that classic truffle consistency.

For the Chocolate Coating

Dark Chocolate – A high-quality semisweet or baking chocolate creates a rich shell that complements the cherry filling beautifully.

Optional Garnish

Edible Glitter – A sprinkle of this adds a fun, festive touch to your truffles for an elegant finish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Mash Truffles

Step 1: Prepare Cherries
Begin by draining the maraschino cherries thoroughly and patting them dry with paper towels. This ensures they won’t introduce excess moisture into your Cherry Mash Truffles. Arrange the dried cherries on a plate to help them air dry while you prepare the truffle mixture, which will be the luscious center of your treats.

Step 2: Mix Base
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, blend them on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should have a light, fluffy texture; this will serve as the delectable base for your Cherry Mash Truffles, enveloping the cherries in sweet richness.

Step 3: Incorporate Cherries
Gently fold the prepared maraschino cherries into the creamy mixture using a spatula until they are evenly dispersed. Make sure not to overmix, as you want to preserve the integrity of the cherries. The resulting mixture will be thick and vibrant, capturing the essence of the Cherry Mash Truffles you’re creating.

Step 4: Shape Truffles
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, take portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place these shaped truffles on a lined baking sheet. Once all the mixture is shaped, cover the sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, allowing the truffles to firm up for easier handling.

Step 5: Melt Chocolate
While the truffles chill, prepare the chocolate coating by melting 8 ounces of high-quality dark chocolate. You can do this in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler) or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. This rich chocolate will form a luscious shell around the Cherry Mash Truffles.

Step 6: Coat Truffles
Once the chocolate is melted and your truffles are firm, remove them from the refrigerator. Dip each chilled truffle into the warm melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Use a dipping fork or toothpick for a smoother application and allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the truffles onto a parchment-lined tray to set.

Step 7: Garnish
If you wish to add a decorative touch to your Cherry Mash Truffles, sprinkle them with edible glitter or your choice of garnish while the chocolate is still warm. This step adds a festive flair and enhances the visual appeal of your homemade treats, making them perfect for gifting or sharing.

Step 8: Chill Again
Finally, place the coated truffles back in the refrigerator for an additional 15-30 minutes. This step ensures the chocolate sets completely, creating a firm, glossy shell that encases the creamy cherry center. Once set, your Cherry Mash Truffles are ready to be enjoyed or beautifully packaged for friends and family!

What to Serve with Easy Cherry Mash Truffles

Indulging in these delightful treats opens up a world of delicious pairings that elevate your dessert experience.

Rich Coffee: A smooth cup of rich coffee enhances the chocolate and cherry flavors, making each bite of the truffle more enjoyable. The slight bitterness of the coffee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the truffles.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the richness of the truffles, creating a delightful balance of temperatures and textures.
Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh berries adds a pop of color and tartness, complementing the sweet cherry filling while offering a refreshing and fruity crunch.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These indulgent treats mirror the chocolatey goodness of the truffles, making for a themed dessert platter that is visually stunning and delicious. Pair them together for luscious bites.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly sparkling wine adds a celebratory touch, enhancing the sweet and tart notes of the truffles while offering a light, effervescent counterpoint.
Dark Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of dark hot chocolate amplifies the chocolate experience. The combination of hot and cold invites comfort, perfect for chilly evenings.
Nut Brittle: The crisp, crunchy texture of nut brittle balances the creamy truffles, adding a delightful contrast to your sweet experience. The nutty flavor beautifully complements the cherry notes, enhancing every bite!

Expert Tips for Cherry Mash Truffles

Dry Cherries Well: Drain and pat maraschino cherries completely dry. Excess moisture can make the truffle filling too soft and difficult to shape.
Choose Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate to enhance the overall flavor of your Cherry Mash Truffles. It makes a significant difference in both taste and texture.
Keep It Cool: If your truffle mixture feels too soft to handle, chill it for a bit longer before shaping. This makes the process much easier and helps maintain shape.
Use Dipping Tools: A dipping fork or toothpick can help achieve a neat chocolate coating. This method helps avoid messy hands while transferring truffles.
Don’t Stress About Perfection: Embrace the handmade charm of your Cherry Mash Truffles; their nostalgic appeal lies in their homemade essence, so imperfect shapes are welcome!

Cherry Mash Truffles Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these ideas to customize your Cherry Mash Truffles!

Dried Fruit: Substitute maraschino cherries with dried cherries or cranberries for a chewier texture and different flavor profile. Dried fruits offer a more intense fruit taste and create a lovely chewiness in each bite.
Chocolate Type: Replace dark chocolate with milk chocolate or white chocolate for a sweeter treat. Each option brings its unique character, making your truffles irresistibly delightful in different ways.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds into the mixture for added crunch. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the cherry filling, creating a satisfying contrast in texture.
Flavor Variations: Add a splash of almond extract or vanilla extract to the truffle base for a flavor twist. These additions can elevate the taste, weaving rich notes into your cherry-filled bites.
Heat It Up: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a subtle kick. This unexpected heat level makes for an exciting surprise that contrasts the sweetness beautifully.
Cocoa Dusting: Roll the finished truffles in cocoa powder instead of chocolate for a simpler, less indulgent twist. This offers a decadent chocolate flavor while keeping the texture light.
Gift Wrapping Inspiration: For a fun and festive presentation, package your truffles in a decorative box, similar to how I often present my Tiramisu Truffles Decadent. It makes a charming gift for any occasion!
Chocoholic’s Dream: Drizzle extra chocolate over the set truffles for an elegant look and even more chocolatey goodness. It adds a fabulous flair that everyone will love!

Let these variations inspire you to craft your uniquely memorable Cherry Mash Truffles!

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Mash Truffles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the truffle mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the rolled truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can melt the dark chocolate up to 2 days ahead and keep it covered at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, just coat the chilled truffles with the melted chocolate and let them set. This makes for a seamless experience, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade Cherry Mash Truffles just as fresh and delightful as if they were made that day!

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Mash Truffles

Fridge: Keep your Cherry Mash Truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain their fresh taste and creamy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating: Allow truffles to thaw in the fridge for a few hours before enjoying. Avoid microwaving, as it can affect the chocolate shell’s texture.

Make Ahead: These delightful treats can be made a few days in advance, making them perfect for last-minute events or as thoughtful gifts.

Cherry Mash Truffles Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries are best for Cherry Mash Truffles?
Absolutely! Maraschino cherries are ideal since they provide that sweet burst of flavor and vibrant color. Just ensure they’re well-drained and patted dry to avoid a soggy center.

How should I store my Cherry Mash Truffles?
To keep them fresh, store your truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to enjoy them later, they freeze beautifully!

Can I freeze Cherry Mash Truffles?
Yes, you can! To freeze your truffles, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge to maintain that lovely chocolate shell.

What if my truffle mixture is too soft to shape?
No worries! If your mixture feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for an additional 15-30 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to roll into those perfect little balls. Remember, don’t stress about getting them perfect; the homemade charm is all part of their appeal!

Are Cherry Mash Truffles suitable for everyone?
These truffles contain butter and powdered sugar, which may not suit those with dairy or gluten sensitivities. However, you can customize them—try using dairy-free butter and alternative sweeteners if needed. Always check ingredient labels if you’re catering to specific allergies!

Can I make variations of Cherry Mash Truffles?
The more the merrier! Feel free to substitute maraschino cherries with dried cherries or fruit purees for an exciting twist. Additionally, try different types of chocolate, add chopped nuts for a delightful crunch, or incorporate almond extract for a unique flavor profile!