Easy No-Bake Cherry Mash Truffles Recipe

Introduction

These easy no-bake cherry mash truffles combine sweet maraschino cherries with a creamy, buttery filling coated in smooth chocolate. They’re simple to make and perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings without turning on the oven.

Ingredients

• 1 (10 ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups semisweet or milk chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for a smoother coating)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Drain maraschino cherries thoroughly and finely chop. Use paper towels to press out as much moisture as possible to create a firm truffle base.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
3. Step 3: Fold in the chopped, drained cherries until the mixture is evenly combined and slightly thick but still pliable.
4. Step 4: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the cherry filling and roll into smooth balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 20–30 minutes until firm to the touch.
5. Step 5: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and optional coconut oil or shortening. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until completely melted and silky.
6. Step 6: Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled cherry ball into the melted chocolate. Let excess drip off and place back onto the parchment-lined tray.
7. Step 7: Chill the coated truffles in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes until the chocolate is firm and set.
8. Step 8: Store the finished truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

• Pressing the cherries dry with paper towels is key to avoid a watery filling and ensure the truffles hold their shape.
• Try using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter coating.
• For extra texture, mix in a handful of finely chopped nuts into the cherry filling before shaping.

Storage

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To serve, you can enjoy them chilled or let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly. Avoid leaving them out too long to prevent the chocolate from melting.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries contain more moisture, which can make the filling too soft. If using fresh cherries, be sure to pit, finely chop, and thoroughly drain or dry them to reduce moisture before mixing.

What can I use instead of coconut oil or shortening in the chocolate coating?

If you don’t have coconut oil or shortening, you can omit it or substitute with a small amount of vegetable oil or butter to help thin the chocolate and achieve a smooth coating.

Easy No-Bake Cherry Mash Truffles Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 74 reviews

These Easy No-Bake Cherry Mash Truffles are delightful bite-sized treats combining a creamy cherry filling with a smooth chocolate coating. Perfect for quick homemade indulgence, they require no baking and come together with simple ingredients like maraschino cherries, powdered sugar, butter, and chocolate chips.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 truffles 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cherry Filling

• 1 (10 ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Coating

• 2 cups semisweet or milk chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for a smoother coating)

Instructions

1. Prepare Cherries: Drain maraschino cherries thoroughly and finely chop them. Use paper towels to press out as much moisture as possible to ensure the truffle centers have a firm texture.
2. Make the Cherry Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Fold in the chopped, dried cherries until evenly combined, resulting in a mixture that is thick yet pliable.
3. Shape the Centers: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the cherry filling and roll into smooth balls. Place these balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 20 to 30 minutes until firm to the touch.
4. Melt Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and optional coconut oil or shortening. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is completely melted and silky smooth.
5. Coat the Truffles: Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled cherry ball into the melted chocolate. Allow excess chocolate to drip off, then place back on the parchment-lined tray.
6. Set the Chocolate: Chill the coated truffles in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes until the chocolate is firm and fully set.
7. Store and Serve: Transfer the truffles to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week. Enjoy them chilled or allow to come to room temperature before serving.

Notes

• Pressing out excess moisture from the cherries is crucial to prevent watery filling and ensure firm truffles.
• You can use either semisweet or milk chocolate chips depending on your preferred sweetness.
• Adding coconut oil or shortening to the chocolate helps achieve a smoother coating and shinier finish.
• Handle the truffle centers gently to maintain their shape during dipping.
• Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Keywords: No-bake truffles, cherry truffles, chocolate covered cherries, easy dessert, holiday treats