Cherry Mash Truffles 🍒🍫

These Cherry Mash Truffles are a decadent, bite-sized treat inspired by the classic candy bar. With a sweet and tangy cherry filling surrounded by rich chocolate and a creamy peanut butter layer, these truffles are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for gifting, parties, or indulging at home, they’re easy to make and sure to impress!

Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible Cherry Mash Truffles step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich & Decadent : Layers of cherry filling, peanut butter, and chocolate create a luxurious treat.
No-Bake Simplicity : Ready in minutes with no oven required—just mix, chill, and dip.
Customizable : Add crushed peanuts, sprinkles, or drizzle with white chocolate for extra flair.
Perfect for Gifting : Package them in festive boxes or bags for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Nostalgic Flavor : A nod to the classic Cherry Mash candy bar, but better because it’s homemade!
Ingredients
(Makes 20–24 truffles)

For the Cherry Filling:
1 (10 oz) jar maraschino cherries , drained and finely chopped 🍒
2 cups powdered sugar , sifted ❄️
2 tablespoons unsalted butter , softened 🧈
½ teaspoon almond extract 🌿
⅛ teaspoon salt 🧂
For the Chocolate Coating:
1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips 🍫
½ cup creamy peanut butter 🥜
½ cup crushed peanuts (optional, for rolling ) 🥜
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cherry Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped maraschino cherries , powdered sugar , softened butter , almond extract , and salt .
Mix until the ingredients come together to form a smooth, sticky dough.
Tip : If the mixture is too dry, add a tiny bit of cherry juice (from the jar) to help bind it. If too wet, add a little more powdered sugar.
Step 2: Shape the Truffles
Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the cherry mixture and roll it into a smooth ball between your palms.
Place the shaped balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Repeat with the remaining cherry mixture. You should have about 20–24 balls .
Chill the truffles in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth and fully combined.