This Easy Homemade Cherry Mash Candy is a sweet delight! Made with cherry flavor, creamy peanut butter, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, it’s a treat for your taste buds.
Can’t wait to share these candies! They are perfect for a snack or to wrap up as gifts. I like to enjoy them with a cup of tea—such a sweet combo! 🍬
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Maraschino Cherries: The star of this recipe! Make sure to drain and pat them dry to avoid extra moisture. If fresh cherries are in season, you can use them, chopped, but keep in mind they will have a different texture.
Powdered Sugar: This sugar provides sweetness and helps bind the mixture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can try coconut sugar, but the color and texture might change slightly.
Creamy Peanut Butter: It’s my favorite for this recipe because it mixes really well! If you need a nut-free version, sunflower seed butter works great as a substitute.
Vanilla Extract: This adds depth to the flavor. If you’re out, almond extract can also be a nice swap, giving a different but enjoyable twist.
Chocolate: Milk chocolate is traditional, but dark chocolate or even white chocolate can be used for a different flavor profile. Just know it will change the overall taste.
Nuts: Chopped peanuts or pecans add crunch. If you’re allergic, you can leave them out or use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds instead.
How Do I Ensure My Candy Holds Its Shape?
Keeping the candy firm is key! Here are some tips to make sure your Cherry Mash Candy holds its shape:
- Start with well-drained cherries to minimize moisture.
- Mix the ingredients until combined, and adjust powdered sugar as needed for the right consistency—this helps the mixture stay firm.
- Chill the candy shapes for at least an hour before dipping in chocolate. This step solidifies them, making them easier to coat.
- The melting chocolate should be smooth, but not too hot—hot chocolate can soften your candy. If the chocolate is too thick, add a tiny bit of coconut oil to help thicken it!
Following these tips will help you create beautiful, shaped candies that everyone will love!
Easy Homemade Cherry Mash Candy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz milk chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped peanuts or pecans (optional, for coating)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional hour or so to chill and set. In total, plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy these delightful candies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will help prevent the candies from sticking as they chill.
2. Make the Cherry Mixture:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped maraschino cherries, powdered sugar, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well with a spoon or spatula until everything is fully combined and you have a firm dough. If the mixture feels too sticky, don’t worry! Just add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable and holds its shape.
3. Shape the Candy:
Roll the mixture into small logs or bite-sized balls—whichever shape you prefer! Place each piece onto your prepared baking sheet. This is where the fun starts, so make them as big or small as you like!
4. Chill the Candy:
Next, pop the baking sheet in the refrigerator and let the candies chill for about 1 hour. This helps them firm up nicely, making them easier to coat in chocolate.
5. Melt the Chocolate:
While the candies are chilling, it’s time to melt the milk chocolate! Place the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and completely melted. Be careful not to overheat it!
6. Prepare for Coating:
If you’re using chopped nuts to coat the candies, pour them into a shallow dish, so they’re easy to roll the candies in later.
7. Coat the Candies:
Once the candies are firm, take them out of the fridge. Dip each piece into the melted chocolate, making sure to coat it evenly. If you want, you can then roll the chocolate-coated candy in the chopped nuts for an extra crunch and flavor!
8. Set the Chocolate:
Place the coated candies back onto the parchment-lined sheet and return them to the refrigerator. Let them chill for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate hardens completely.
9. Store and Enjoy:
Once set, your Cherry Mash candies are ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them firm and fresh.
Happy munching on your homemade Cherry Mash candies, where creamy peanut butter meets sweet cherries and delightful chocolate!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Cherry Mash Candy
Can I Use Fresh Cherries Instead of Maraschino Cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just make sure to pit and chop them finely. Keep in mind that fresh cherries will have a different texture and moisture content, so you may need to adjust the powdered sugar accordingly.
How Do I Store These Candies?
Store your Cherry Mash candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to one week. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I Make These Candies Nut-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the creamy peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or another nut-free butter of your choice. Just ensure the option you choose has a similar consistency for best results.
What If My Chocolate is Too Thick for Coating?
If the melted chocolate is too thick to easily dip the candies, try adding a teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable oil. This will help thin it out, making it easier to coat the candies evenly.
