Description
Delight in these Cherry Mash Truffles, a luscious blend of creamy peanut butter, chopped maraschino cherries, and crunchy rice cereal coated in rich dark chocolate. These no-bake treats combine sweet, nutty, and fruity flavors with a delightful crunchy texture, perfect for dessert or gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
Truffle Filling
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup rice cereal
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Chocolate Coating
- 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips (or milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Optional Garnishes
- Extra chopped maraschino cherries
- Sprinkles or chopped nuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Truffle Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and finely chopped maraschino cherries until well blended.
- Add the Crunch: Gently fold in the powdered sugar and rice cereal, stirring until everything is evenly coated. If desired, stir in the almond extract for extra depth of flavor.
- Shape the Truffles: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Chill: Place the truffle balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up before coating them in chocolate.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate chips with the vegetable oil until smooth and glossy, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Dip and Coat: Dip each chilled truffle ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring a complete coating. Use a fork to lift and allow any excess chocolate to drip off, then place the coated truffle back onto the parchment paper.
- Add a Finish: While the chocolate coating is still wet, sprinkle additional chopped cherries, sprinkles, or chopped nuts on top for decoration and added texture.
- Set the Truffles: Return the chocolate-covered truffles to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set and firm.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once set, serve the truffles immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- For a sweeter flavor, substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate chips.
- If almond extract is unavailable, vanilla extract can be used as an alternative.
- Ensure maraschino cherries are finely chopped to distribute evenly throughout the truffle mixture.
- Use parchment paper to prevent the truffles from sticking during chilling and coating.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and texture.
