Cherry Mash Candy is a sweet and chewy treat that combines the flavor of cherries with creamy chocolate. This fun confection brings childhood memories rushing back!
You can whip these up at home and share with friends or just keep them all to yourself—no judgment here! 😄 I love enjoying them with a warm cup of coffee for a tasty snack break.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Maraschino Cherries: These cherries give the candy its fruity flavor. If you’re after a different taste, try using dried cherries or sweetened cherries instead.
Powdered Sugar: Essential for sweetness and texture. If you need a less sugary option, you could use a sugar substitute for similar results, though the texture might change a bit.
Peanut Butter: Smooth peanut butter helps bind the ingredients. For a nut-free version, try sunflower seed butter or almond butter.
Milk Chocolate: It provides a rich, creamy coating. Dark chocolate can also be used for a more intense chocolate flavor, or white chocolate for a sweeter twist.
Vegetable Oil/Shortening: This helps create a smooth chocolate coating. You can skip it if you prefer a thicker layer, but the chocolate might not be as shiny.
How Do You Ensure the Perfect Candy Coating?
Getting that perfect chocolate coating is crucial for good Cherry Mash Candy. Here are some steps to help you out:
- Make sure your chocolate is fully melted. Use a microwave on low heat, stirring every 30 seconds to prevent burning.
- Let excess chocolate drip off by gently shaking the fork or dipping tool before placing it on parchment paper.
- For that crunchy texture, sprinkle crushed peanuts on the candy while the chocolate is still tacky.
With these tips, your Cherry Mash Candy should shine with a lovely chocolate finish! Enjoy your candy-making adventure!
Cherry Mash Candy Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cherry Filling:
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, finely chopped (reserve juice)
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 6 oz milk chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vegetable oil or shortening (optional, for a smoother coating)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped peanuts (optional, for coating)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cherry Mash Candy will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling. In total, you can expect to spend around 45 minutes to make these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cherries:
Begin by draining the maraschino cherries. Be sure to reserve about 2 tablespoons of the cherry juice for later use. Finely chop the cherries and set them aside.
2. Make the Cherry Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cherries, sifted powdered sugar, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and the reserved cherry juice. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything well until it forms a stiff, pliable dough. Your mixture should be thick and hold together nicely.
3. Form the Candy Balls:
Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to shape it into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray, making sure to leave some space between each. Pop them into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Melt the Chocolate:
While the cherry balls are chilling, it’s time to melt the chocolate! In a microwave-safe bowl (or a double boiler), melt the milk chocolate. If you want a smoother finish on your coating, mix in the optional vegetable oil or shortening. Heat the chocolate in short intervals, stirring frequently until it’s completely melted.
5. Coat the Cherry Balls:
Once your chocolate is ready, take the cherry balls out of the refrigerator. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, making sure it’s fully coated. Gently shake off any excess chocolate before placing it back on the parchment paper.
6. Add Some Crunch (Optional):
If you want a bit of texture, roll or sprinkle the coated balls with finely chopped peanuts while the chocolate is still wet. This step adds a delightful crunch!
7. Set the Candy:
Return the coated Cherry Mash candies to the parchment paper and place them back in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate has completely set.
8. Store and Enjoy:
Once the chocolate is firm, store your delicious Cherry Mash candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. You can enjoy them chilled or at room temperature—perfect for snacking anytime!
Now go ahead and enjoy your homemade Cherry Mash Candy—sweet, chewy, and truly delightful!
Can I Use Fresh Cherries Instead of Maraschino Cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you will need to pit and chop them finely. Keep in mind that fresh cherries may not have the same sweet flavor as maraschino cherries, so you might want to adjust the powdered sugar to taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Cherry Mash Candy?
Store any leftover candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This will help keep them fresh and maintain their chewy texture.
Can I Use Dark Chocolate for the Coating?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give your Cherry Mash Candy a richer flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness of the filling if desired, as dark chocolate is less sweet than milk chocolate.
What If My Cherry Mixture Is Too Sticky?
If your cherry mixture is too sticky to form into balls, try adding a bit more powdered sugar until it reaches a manageable consistency. You can also refrigerate the mixture for a short time to help it firm up.