Cherry Mash Candy Recipe

Cherry Mash Candy Recipe

Discover the timeless charm of homemade Cherry Mash Candy Recipe with this easy to follow recipe. Packed with sweet cherries, creamy chocolate, and crunchy peanuts, this recipe offers a nostalgic treat that’s perfect for holidays, gift giving, or a sweet indulgence.

Description

The Cherry Mash Candy recipe is a beloved confection inspired by the classic Midwest treat. This candy combines layers of smooth cherry flavored filling, covered with a rich chocolate coating mixed with peanuts. It’s a perfect combination of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re making it as a holiday treat, a gift for friends and family, or just because, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

With its origins dating back to the early 1900s, the Cherry Mash Candy Recipe has remained a popular favorite due to its unique flavor and delightful texture. The sweet cherry center pairs perfectly with the crunchy chocolate peanut shell, creating a candy that is as fun to make as it is to eat. This recipe walks you through the process step by step, ensuring your homemade version is just as delicious as the store bought classic.

Discover the best cherry mash candy recipe. This classic, easy to make treat combines sweet cherry filling with a rich chocolate peanut coating. Perfect for holidays or gifting, our homemade cherry mash candy recipe will delight your taste buds. Try it today.

Read on to learn how to make this crowd pleasing candy, complete with detailed instructions, helpful notes, and tips for success.

Ingredients

For the Cherry Center:

2 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/3 cup maraschino cherry juice
1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Chocolate Peanut Coating:

2 cups semi sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter
1 cup roasted peanuts, finely chopped

Instructions

1.Prepare the Cherry Center: Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, softened butter, maraschino cherry juice, almond extract, and salt. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add Cherries: Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Shape the Centers: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the cherry mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the balls onto a parchment lined baking sheet. Chill: Refrigerate the cherry centers for 20 minutes to firm up.

2.Make the Chocolate Peanut Coating: Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Add Peanuts: Stir in the chopped roasted peanuts until evenly combined.

3.Assemble the Cherry Mash Candy: Dip the Centers: Using a fork or dipping tool, coat each cherry center in the chocolate peanut mixture. Let the excess drip off before placing it back on the parchment lined sheet. Harden the Candy: Once all the centers are coated, refrigerate the candies for at least 20 minutes to set the chocolate.

4.Serve and Enjoy: Presentation: Arrange the candies on a decorative platter or package them in gift boxes. Storage: Store the candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Notes

Customization: For a different flavor, substitute almond extract with vanilla extract.
Chilling Tips: If the cherry mixture is too soft to shape, refrigerate it for 10 minutes before rolling.
Chocolate Options: Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter candy.
Nut Free Version: Replace peanuts with finely chopped almonds or omit nuts entirely.