Cherry Mash Truffles

These cherry mash truffles bring together rich chocolate with the bright, tangy notes of cherry puree for a truly special treat. They are no-bake and come together with a smooth ganache that sets beautifully, making them a wonderful choice for holiday celebrations or thoughtful homemade gifts. The combination of luscious creamy chocolate and the vibrant fruit flavor offers a balance that feels both indulgent and fresh.

I remember making these truffles for the first time at a family gathering and everyone was amazed by their rich cherry flavor. They quickly became a favorite whenever I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Eight ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate chopped for melting: choose good quality chocolate for the best flavor and smooth texture
• One cup heavy cream: adds richness and helps create a creamy ganache
• One cup cherry puree: fresh or frozen cherries pureed to add bright fruitiness that pairs perfectly with chocolate
• Two tablespoons cherry liqueur optional, for a boozy depth: pick your favorite brand or omit for a non-alcoholic version
• Cocoa powder or chopped nuts for coating: to add texture and a finishing touch
• Use a heatproof bowl and saucepan for melting and combining ingredients safely and evenly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Place the chopped chocolate into a heatproof bowl. This ensures the chocolate melts evenly without burning when you add the hot cream.

Heat the Cream:

Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Avoid boiling as this can cause the cream to separate or scald.

Blend the Ganache:

Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes. Then stir gently until the chocolate has fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Add Cherry Flavor:

Stir in the cherry puree and cherry liqueur if using until everything is fully combined. This step infuses the ganache with vibrant cherry flavor for a perfect balance.

Chill the Mixture:

Cover and refrigerate the ganache for about 2 hours until firm enough to scoop. This chilling step is essential for shaping the truffles.

Roll the Truffles:

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of ganache and roll it between your palms to form round balls. Don’t worry if they look imperfect; the coating will help.

Coat the Truffles:

Roll each truffle in cocoa powder or chopped nuts so they are fully coated. This adds texture and makes handling easier.

Final Chill:

Place the coated truffles on a tray and refrigerate for another 30 minutes before serving. This final step helps them hold their shape and makes them cool and refreshing.

Pin it

I always enjoy how the cherry puree lifts the richness of the chocolate and makes these truffles feel light and bright despite their decadence. One of my favorite memories is gifting these to friends during the holidays and watching their smiles as they bite in.

Storage Tips

Store these truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them firm and fresh. They will keep well for up to a week, but are best enjoyed within a few days for optimal texture and flavor. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month by placing them on a tray first, freezing until firm, then transferring to a sealed container.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have cherry puree fresh or frozen, try using high-quality cherry jam thinned with a little water or juice. Alternatively, raspberry puree can work for a similar tart berry note. If heavy cream is unavailable, full-fat coconut milk can be used but will slightly change the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these truffles with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of a light dessert wine to enhance the cherry and chocolate flavors. They also pair wonderfully plated alongside fresh cherries or a dollop of whipped cream for added elegance.

Cultural/Historical Context

Chocolate truffles originated in France as a way to imitate the appearance of the truffle fungus found in forests. Over time they became a luxurious confection with endless variations like this cherry mash version. Using fruit puree is a modern twist that gives the truffle a fresh profile while staying true to its rich, creamy heritage.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of chocolate works best for these truffles?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate provides a rich, balanced flavor and smooth texture suited for these cherry-infused truffles.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream for a non-dairy option?

Yes, coconut cream or other non-dairy creams can work but may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

→ How long should the ganache chill before shaping?

Chilling for about 2 hours until firm ensures the ganache is easy to scoop and shape into balls.

→ What are good coating options besides cocoa powder?

Chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds add a crunchy contrast and complement the cherry and chocolate well.

→ Is the cherry liqueur necessary?

It is optional but enhances the cherry flavor and adds a subtle depth to the truffles.