This Easy Homemade Cherry Mash Candy is a sweet delight! With creamy peanut butter, crunchy nuts, and a burst of cherry flavor, it’s a treat everyone will love.
Making these candies is so straightforward; just mix, mold, and enjoy! Trust me, they disappear fast when shared—you might want to hide a few for yourself! 😁
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Powdered Sugar: This gives your candy that sweet touch and smooth texture. If you run out, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar until fine, but it might not dissolve as easily.
Peanut Butter: I like using creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture, but crunchy works well if you prefer extra texture! If you have allergies, sunflower seed butter or almond butter are great substitutions.
Maraschino Cherries: These add a delightful sweetness and color. If you want a tart twist, you can try using diced fresh cherries or cherries in syrup. Just remember to drain them well!
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Perfect for melting! You can use dark chocolate for a richer flavor, or if you need it dairy-free, look for dairy-free chocolate chips.
Vegetable Shortening: This helps the chocolate have a nice shine and smooth consistency. You can substitute it with coconut oil, but be mindful it might change the flavor slightly!
How Do I Ensure My Candies Set Properly?
Setting the candies is crucial for that perfect bite! Here’s how to make sure they come out just right.
- Chill your candy balls in the fridge before dipping; this firms them up, making them easier to handle.
- When melting the chocolate, do it in increments and stir often. This prevents burning and helps you achieve a smooth consistency.
- After dipping, leave them on parchment paper to cool. A refrigerator can help them firm up quickly if you’re in a hurry!
- Store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh and retain their shape.
With these tips, your cherry mash candies will be a hit!
Easy Homemade Cherry Mash Candy
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup salted creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries (with juice drained)
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes of preparation time plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the fridge. In total, you can expect about 50 minutes from start to finish, but you’ll love the end result!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, add the powdered sugar and the creamy peanut butter. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix them together until everything is well combined and smooth. You want a dough-like consistency!
2. Add the Cherries:
Next, stir in the chopped maraschino cherries. Make sure the cherries are well distributed throughout the peanut butter mixture. This adds a great burst of flavor!
3. Form the Candy Balls:
Now it’s time to shape your mixture. Roll it into small bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place these on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once you’ve shaped them all, pop the baking sheet into the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will help them firm up nicely.
4. Melt the Chocolate:
While your balls are chilling, let’s prepare the chocolate coating! In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time, stirring well in between until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat!
5. Coat with Nuts:
Once your chocolate is melted, stir in the chopped peanuts for that crunchy texture. This is what will give your candies a tasty outer layer!
6. Dip the Candy Balls:
Using a fork or a candy dipping tool, dip each chilled candy ball into the melted chocolate mixture. Make sure to coat it thoroughly, then lift and let the excess chocolate drip off. Return it to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Set the Candies:
Now you need to let the chocolate set. You can leave the candies at room temperature, or for a quicker set, place them in the refrigerator until the chocolate hardens completely.
8. Store and Enjoy:
Once set, store your delicious cherry mash candies in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re perfect for snacking or sharing with friends and family!
Enjoy this scrumptious homemade cherry mash candy, packed with a creamy peanut butter center, succulent cherry pieces, and a crunchy chocolate-nut coating! Yum!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Almond Butter for Peanut Butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter can be used instead of peanut butter for a different flavor profile. Just be aware that the texture and taste will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any flour. Just ensure that your chocolate chips and any additional ingredients are labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination!
How Long Do the Candies Last in Storage?
These cherry mash candies can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Just be sure to keep them chilled to maintain their texture and freshness!
What’s the Best Way to Melt Chocolate?
Microwave is a quick way, but be sure to melt in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can use a double boiler for a more controlled melting process. Just keep the heat gentle!
