Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles

Name: Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles: Indulge in Sweet Delight!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 2 cups chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Posted on December 7, 2025

DESSERT

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Introduction to Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself dreaming of sweet treats that bring joy to my family and friends. That’s where my Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles come in! These delightful little bites are not just a quick solution for a busy day; they’re a way to impress your loved ones with minimal effort. With a luscious blend of chocolate and cherries, they capture the essence of festive cheer. Plus, they’re no-bake, making them perfect for those of us juggling a million things during the holidays. Let’s dive into this sweet adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles

These Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles are a holiday miracle wrapped in chocolate! They’re incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet cherries creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re no-bake, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities with your loved ones. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles. Here’s what you’ll need:

Maraschino cherries: These sweet, vibrant cherries are the star of the show. They add a burst of flavor and a pop of color to your truffles.
Powdered sugar: This fine sugar helps create a smooth, sweet filling. It’s perfect for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Creamy peanut butter: Rich and nutty, peanut butter adds depth and creaminess to the truffles. You can substitute it with almond butter for a different twist.
Chocolate chips: Choose semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for coating. They provide a luscious outer layer that complements the sweet filling beautifully.
Vegetable oil: A little oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly, making it easier to coat the truffles. You can use coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor.

For those who want to get creative, consider adding crushed nuts or holiday-themed sprinkles for a festive touch. The exact quantities of these ingredients are listed at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and take to the kitchen!

How to Make Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Mixture

Let’s kick things off by creating the cherry mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained maraschino cherries, powdered sugar, and creamy peanut butter. I like to use a sturdy spatula to mix everything together until it’s well blended. The cherries should be chopped into small pieces, allowing their sweet flavor to meld beautifully with the peanut butter. This mixture will be the heart of your truffles, so make sure it’s smooth and creamy. Trust me, the aroma alone will have you dreaming of holiday cheer!

Step 2: Form the Truffles

Now that your cherry mixture is ready, it’s time to shape it into truffles. Using your hands, form small balls, about the size of a tablespoon. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step is where the magic happens! I find it helpful to keep my hands slightly damp to prevent sticking. As you work, you’ll see how the vibrant colors of the cherries peek through, making each truffle look festive and inviting.

Step 3: Chill the Truffles

Once you’ve formed all the truffles, it’s time to chill them. Pop the baking sheet into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the truffles firm up, making them easier to coat later. While you wait, you can enjoy a cup of hot cocoa or catch up on your favorite holiday movie. It’s a win-win!

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

Now, let’s get to the fun part—melting the chocolate! In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Heat them in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. The oil helps the chocolate melt evenly and gives it a lovely sheen. Be careful not to overheat it; you want that silky texture that will coat your truffles perfectly. The smell of melting chocolate is pure bliss!

Step 5: Coat the Truffles

With your chocolate melted and ready, it’s time to coat those chilled cherry balls. Using a fork, dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some crushed nuts or festive sprinkles on top before the chocolate sets. This adds a delightful crunch and a pop of color!

Step 6: Set the Truffles

Finally, it’s time to let the chocolate set. Return the chocolate-covered truffles to the baking sheet and let them sit at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate hardens. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Once set, your Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles are ready to be enjoyed! They’ll be the star of your holiday gatherings, and I can’t wait for you to share them with your loved ones.

Tips for Success

Make sure to drain the maraschino cherries well to avoid excess moisture in your truffles.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform truffle sizes; it makes the process quicker and easier.
Chill the truffles longer if they feel too soft; a firmer texture makes coating easier.
Experiment with different chocolate types for unique flavors—white chocolate is a fun option!
Store truffles in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy glass or ceramic bowl works well.
Baking sheet: Use a standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper. A plate can work in a pinch!
Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for mixing. A wooden spoon can also do the trick.
Microwave-safe bowl: For melting chocolate, any microwave-safe bowl will suffice.
Fork: Use a fork for dipping truffles. A slotted spoon can be a handy alternative.

Variations of Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cherry mixture for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer, more intense chocolate experience.
Minty Fresh: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract into the chocolate for a refreshing twist that screams holiday cheer.
Vegan Option: Substitute creamy peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots with the cherries for an extra burst of fruity goodness.

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles

Pair these truffles with a warm cup of spiced hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
Serve on a festive platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
Include them in a holiday dessert table alongside cookies and cakes for variety.
Wrap them in decorative boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
Enjoy with a glass of bubbly or a holiday punch for a celebratory touch.

FAQs about Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles

Can I make Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles ahead of time?

Absolutely! These truffles can be made a few days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious, ready to impress your guests!

What can I use instead of maraschino cherries?

If you’re not a fan of maraschino cherries, you can substitute them with dried cherries or even fresh cherries when they’re in season. Just remember to adjust the sweetness accordingly!

How should I store the truffles?

Store your Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to two weeks, but I doubt they’ll last that long!

Can I freeze these truffles?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they’re in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll be good for up to three months.

What’s the best way to serve these truffles?

Serve them chilled or at room temperature on a festive platter. You can also sprinkle some crushed nuts or holiday-themed sprinkles on top for an extra festive touch!

Final Thoughts

Creating Christmas Cherry Mash Truffles is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to your holiday celebrations. The sweet aroma of chocolate and cherries fills your kitchen, wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia. Each bite is a little piece of happiness, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply indulging in a quiet moment, these truffles are sure to bring smiles all around. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the holiday spirit, and let these truffles become a cherished tradition in your home!