Welcome to my kitchen, where the sweet aroma of Homemade Cherry Mash Candy fills the air! This delightful treat combines the tartness of maraschino cherries with the creamy richness of peanut butter and the indulgence of chocolate. I remember the first time I made this candy; it was a rainy afternoon, and my kids were eager for a fun kitchen project. As we mixed the ingredients, laughter echoed, and the vibrant red cherries added a pop of color to our day. Homemade Cherry Mash Candy is not just a recipe; it’s a memory waiting to be made, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
What is Homemade Cherry Mash Candy?
Homemade Cherry Mash Candy is a delightful confection that marries the sweetness of maraschino cherries with the creaminess of peanut butter and the richness of chocolate. Originating in the United States, this candy has become a nostalgic favorite for many, often evoking memories of childhood treats and family gatherings. The combination of flavors creates a unique taste experience that is both indulgent and satisfying. With its no-bake method, this candy is not only easy to prepare but also allows for creativity in the kitchen, making it a beloved choice for home cooks everywhere.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cherry Mash Candy
- **Convenient**: Quick to prepare with minimal cooking required.
- **Delicious**: A perfect balance of sweet and creamy flavors that everyone will enjoy.
- **Healthier Option**: Made with wholesome ingredients, it can be a better treat choice.
- **Family-Friendly**: A fun recipe to make together, creating lasting memories in the kitchen.
Who It’s For
This recipe is perfect for busy families looking for a quick and enjoyable treat, health-conscious cooks who want to indulge without guilt, and food lovers eager to explore new flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, Homemade Cherry Mash Candy is accessible and fun for everyone.
When to Cook It
Homemade Cherry Mash Candy is ideal for various occasions, including weeknight dinners when you need a sweet finish, celebrations like birthdays and holidays, or simply as a delightful snack for family meals. It’s a versatile treat that can brighten any day!
How to Make the Perfect Homemade Cherry Mash Candy
Ingredients
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained: These provide the sweet and tart flavor that defines the candy.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: This sweetens the mixture and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter: Adds creaminess and a nutty flavor that complements the cherries.
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips: For coating, these create a rich, chocolatey exterior.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Used to melt the chocolate, giving it a smooth texture for dipping.
- Optional: crushed nuts: For added crunch and flavor, you can mix in crushed nuts with the cherry mixture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained maraschino cherries and peanut butter until well mixed. The cherries should be evenly coated with the peanut butter.
- Gradually add powdered sugar to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms. It should be thick enough to hold its shape.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The vibrant red of the cherries will peek through!
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until warm. Then, add the milk chocolate chips, stirring until melted and smooth. The aroma of chocolate will fill your kitchen!
- Dip each cherry ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing them back on the baking sheet.
- Return the chocolate-covered cherry balls to the baking sheet and refrigerate until the chocolate hardens, about 15-20 minutes. The anticipation will be worth it!
- Enjoy your homemade cherry mash candy! Each bite will be a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
For People with Diabetes: Sugar Substitutes
- Stevia: A natural sweetener that has no calories and won’t spike blood sugar levels.
- Monk fruit: Another natural option that is low in calories and has a sweet taste without affecting blood sugar.
- Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that tastes like sugar but is not metabolized by the body.
- It’s best to avoid honey or maple syrup, as they can significantly raise blood sugar levels despite being natural sweeteners.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Refrigerator for chilling
Top Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Use Quality Ingredients: Renowned chef Julia Child always emphasized the importance of using the best ingredients. For Homemade Cherry Mash Candy, opt for high-quality chocolate and fresh maraschino cherries for the best flavor.
- Chill Your Tools: Chef Alton Brown suggests chilling your mixing bowl and utensils before starting. This helps keep the chocolate at the right temperature and prevents it from hardening too quickly.
- Experiment with Flavors: Celebrity chef Ina Garten encourages creativity. Try adding a splash of almond extract to the cherry mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Perfect Your Chocolate Coating: Pastry chef Jacques Torres recommends tempering your chocolate for a glossy finish. This technique ensures a smooth, shiny coating that hardens perfectly.
- Presentation Matters: Food stylist and chef Claire Saffitz advises arranging your Homemade Cherry Mash Candy on a beautiful platter. A visually appealing presentation makes the treat even more enticing!
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store your Homemade Cherry Mash Candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from sticking together.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the candy. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
- Reheating: If you prefer a softer texture, you can microwave the candy for a few seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can melt the chocolate coating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining the Cherries: Failing to drain the maraschino cherries can lead to a soggy mixture, making it difficult to form the candy balls.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can make the candy tough. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a softer texture.
- Skipping the Refrigeration Step: Not chilling the chocolate-covered cherry balls can result in a messy coating. Allow them to set properly for a clean finish.
- Using Low-Quality Chocolate: Cheap chocolate can affect the flavor and texture of your candy. Invest in good-quality chocolate for the best results.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking and candy-making require precision. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure the right balance of flavors.
FAQs About Homemade Cherry Mash Candy
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries for Homemade Cherry Mash Candy?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you will need to pit and chop them finely. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ slightly.
Q: Is Homemade Cherry Mash Candy suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients.
Q: Can I make Homemade Cherry Mash Candy ahead of time?
It depends. You can prepare the candy in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a great make-ahead treat.
Q: Is it possible to make a sugar-free version of Homemade Cherry Mash Candy?
Yes, you can substitute the powdered sugar with sugar alternatives like stevia or monk fruit to create a sugar-free version.
Q: How long does Homemade Cherry Mash Candy last?
Yes, when stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Homemade Cherry Mash Candy
Homemade Cherry Mash Candy is not just a treat; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to any occasion. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, it’s a recipe that can easily become a family favorite. I encourage you to try making this candy and share your thoughts in the comments below! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family so they can create sweet memories too!
Print
Homemade Cherry Mash Candy
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and sweet treat made with cherries and chocolate, perfect for candy lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained maraschino cherries and peanut butter until well mixed.
- Gradually add powdered sugar to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until warm, then add the milk chocolate chips, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Dip each cherry ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Return the chocolate-covered cherry balls to the baking sheet and refrigerate until the chocolate hardens.
- Enjoy your homemade cherry mash candy!
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- For a twist, try adding crushed nuts to the cherry mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Homemade Cherry Mash Candy