Easy Cherry Mash Truffles: A Nostalgic Candy, Reinvented

Do you remember the classic, wonderfully chunky Cherry Mash candy bar? That perfect bite of cherry-flavored nougat, peanuts, and a rich chocolate coating? Now, imagine all that nostalgic flavor transformed into an elegant, bite-sized truffle you can make at home in minutes. These Easy Cherry Mash Truffles capture that iconic taste in a no-fuss, no-bake treat.

With just five simple ingredients and zero oven time, you can create a batch of these decadent Cherry Mash Truffles that are perfect for holiday platters, heartfelt gifts, or satisfying your own sweet craving. They’re a playful, delicious homage to a classic, made effortlessly your own.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS EASY CHERRY MASH TRUFFLES RECIPE

This recipe for Easy Cherry Mash Truffles is a guaranteed hit for so many reasons. 

• First, the method couldn’t be simpler: just mix, roll, and dip. It’s a fantastic project for beginner cooks or for making with kids. 
• Second, they are the ultimate make-ahead dessert, storing beautifully in the fridge or freezer. 
• Finally, the flavor is pure nostalgia, but the presentation feels fresh and sophisticated.

These Cherry Mash Truffles offer the perfect balance of sweet cherry, salty peanut, and deep chocolate that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Print

YOUR 5-INGREDIENT SHOPPING LIST FOR CHERRY MASH TRUFFLES

The magic of these Easy Cherry Mash Truffles lies in their short, impactful ingredient list. Each plays a key role:

• 1 (10 oz) jar Maraschino Cherries, well-drained and finely chopped: The star of the show! Drain the cherries thoroughly on paper towels to remove excess syrup, which is crucial for the right truffle texture.
• 2 cups Powdered Sugar: This sweetens and helps bind the truffle center, giving it a smooth, fudgy consistency.
• 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter: Use a standard, no-stir variety (like Jif or Skippy) for the best binding and flavor. It provides the rich, salty base that defines the Cherry Mash flavor.
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) Unsalted Butter, softened: Adds creaminess and helps solidify the truffle mixture when chilled.
• 12 oz (about 2 cups) Dark Chocolate or Chocolate Candy Coating, for dipping: Chocolate almond bark or melting wafers work perfectly for a smooth, stable shell. High-quality chocolate chips can also be used.

HOW TO MAKE EASY CHERRY MASH TRUFFLES: STEP-BY-STEP

Creating these Cherry Mash Truffles is a simple, three-part process. Let’s walk through it.

STEP 1: MAKE THE CHERRY NOUGAT CENTER

In a large mixing bowl, combine the well-drained and finely chopped maraschino cherries, powdered sugar, creamy peanut butter, and softened butter. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to beat everything together until it forms a thick, uniform, and slightly sticky dough.

STEP 2: CHILL, SCOOP, & SHAPE

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour, until firm enough to handle. Using a small cookie scoop or a teaspoon, portion the dough. Roll each portion quickly between your palms to form a 1-inch ball. Place the shaped Cherry Mash Truffles centers on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 20-30 minutes. This freezing step is essential for easy dipping.

STEP 3: DIP IN CHOCOLATE

Melt your chocolate or candy coating according to package directions. Using a fork or dipping tool, submerge each frozen truffle center into the melted chocolate, tap off the excess, and return it to the parchment paper. Immediately, while the chocolate is still wet, you can top it with a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or a tiny piece of cherry if desired.

STEP 4: SET & SERVE

Allow the chocolate coating to set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Once set, your Easy Cherry Mash Truffles are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

PRO TIPS FOR PERFECT CHERRY MASH TRUFFLES

• Dry Those Cherries: Pat the chopped cherries with several layers of paper towels. Excess moisture is the enemy of a firm truffle center.
• Freeze for Success: Don’t skip freezing the centers before dipping. A frozen center prevents the truffle from falling apart in the warm chocolate and creates a perfect chocolate shell.
• Customize Your Coating: Use milk chocolate for a sweeter finish, or add a teaspoon of coconut oil to your melting chocolate for a thinner, smoother coating.

DELICIOUS VARIATIONS TO TRY

These Easy Cherry Mash Truffles are wonderfully adaptable:

• Double Peanut Crunch: Roll the shaped centers in finely crushed salted peanuts before dipping for extra texture.
• Cherry Cordial Style: Place a whole, well-drained maraschino cherry inside each truffle center for a juicy surprise.
• White Chocolate Swirl: Dip in dark chocolate, then drizzle with melted white chocolate for a beautiful finish.

STORING & GIFTING YOUR HOMEMADE TRUFFLES

Store your Cherry Mash Truffles in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, perfect for getting a head start on holiday baking. To gift, place them in miniature paper candy cups inside a decorative box or tin. They make a thoughtful, homemade present that shows you care.

A SWEET NOTE OF NOSTALGIA

For me, the flavor of cherry and peanut butter is a direct link to road trips and gas station candy aisles with my grandfather. Creating these Easy Cherry Mash Truffles in my own kitchen is a way to honor that sweet memory and share it with new generations. It’s amazing how a simple treat can carry so much joy.

CHERRY MASH TRUFFLES FAQs