Dessert

Cherry Mash Truffles Recipe

ByClara Bennett November 22, 2025November 22, 2025

Introduction

Cherry Mash Truffles are a delightful treat combining sweet maraschino cherries with creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate. These no-bake truffles offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion.

A close-up image of a bowl filled with shiny, dark purple round sweets that have a smooth, moist outer layer. Two of the sweets on the top are cut in half, showing a bright pink, dense, and slightly grainy interior texture. The sweets are piled high in a white bowl, and the background is a white marbled texture with a few blurred dark red cherries. The lighting highlights the glossy wet surface of the sweets, making them look fresh and sticky. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup maraschino cherries (drained and chopped)
2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice
1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt
3 cups powdered sugar
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup chopped salted peanuts

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped maraschino cherries, cherry juice, softened butter, almond extract, vanilla extract, and salt.
Step 2: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until a soft but moldable dough forms. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes until firm enough to roll.
Step 3: Scoop and roll the chilled mixture into small 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Freeze the balls for 15–20 minutes to firm up before coating.
Step 5: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
Step 6: Stir the chopped salted peanuts into the melted chocolate mixture.
Step 7: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each cherry ball into the chocolate mixture to coat completely. Tap off any excess chocolate and place the truffles back on the baking sheet.
Step 8: Chill the coated truffles in the refrigerator until the chocolate is set, about 15 minutes.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, omit the peanut butter and chopped peanuts, and dip the truffles in plain melted chocolate.
Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor or milk chocolate chips for a sweeter taste.
Chilling the cherry mixture adequately helps the balls hold their shape during coating.

Storage

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly. These truffles can also be frozen for longer storage; thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a bowl filled with dark red, glossy round sweets stacked on top of each other. The sweets have a shiny, smooth outer layer with a moist texture visible. One sweet is cut in half and placed on top, showing a vibrant, deep magenta interior that looks dense and slightly grainy. The bowl is white with a simple design, sitting on a white marbled textured surface. The lighting highlights the shiny, wet look of the sweets, making them look fresh and appetizing. 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 a different texture and moisture level, so they may not hold together as well. Maraschino cherries provide sweetness and a soft texture ideal for this recipe.

Is there a way to make these truffles vegan?

You can use dairy-free butter, vegan chocolate chips, and a plant-based peanut butter to make these truffles vegan-friendly. Make sure to check all ingredient labels to confirm they meet your dietary needs.