There’s a certain joy that comes from whipping up a nostalgic treat, especially when it combines flavors that dance on your taste buds. When I discovered the simplicity of making my own Tasty Cherry Mash Candy, I felt like I’d stumbled upon a little treasure. The blend of sweet cherry, creamy peanut butter, and rich semisweet chocolate creates a melody of flavors that instantly reminds me of simpler times.
As autumn approaches and cherry baking chips find their way back into stores, there’s no better time to indulge in this homemade candy. Whether it’s for a cozy night in or a delightful dessert to share with friends, each bite of this candy captures that perfect mix of fruity sweetness and rich decadence. Plus, the satisfaction of making your own candy at home is unbeatable—the soft, fruity center melts in your mouth just as memories of childhood sweets dance in the air. Let’s dive into this sweet adventure together!
Why is Tasty Cherry Mash Candy irresistible?
Nostalgic Experience: Each bite transports you back to simpler times, sparking joyous memories.
Easy to Make: The straightforward process is perfect for all skill levels, making it a delightful kitchen project.
Unique Flavor Fusion: The combination of sweet cherry, peanut butter, and semisweet chocolate provides a flavor adventure like no other.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for cozy evenings or sharing at gatherings, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike.
Time-Saving Indulgence: Whip up this delectable candy in no time, perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings!
Tasty Cherry Mash Candy Ingredients
For the Candy Mixture
• Evaporated Milk – Provides creaminess and moisture; regular milk can be used but may alter consistency slightly.
• Miniature Marshmallows – Adds sweetness and a soft texture; use Jet-Puffed for the best results.
• Salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients; just a dash balances the sweetness.
• Butter (room temperature) – Helps bind the mixture and adds richness; make sure it’s at room temperature for even melting.
• Cherry Baking Chips – The key ingredient for that concentrated cherry flavor without moisture; chopped dried maraschino cherries can be used for a more intense flavor.
• Vanilla Extract (pure) – Boosts the flavor profile; for the best taste, use pure extract.
• White Sugar – The main sweetener that also contributes to texture; essential for proper candy consistency.
For the Topping
• Chunky Peanut Butter – Adds a rich, nutty layer and texture contrast; substitute creamy peanut butter for a smoother topping.
• Semisweet Chocolate Chips – Provides a rich chocolate flavor; Ghirardelli is highly recommended for top quality.
With these ingredients for your Tasty Cherry Mash Candy, you’ll create a treat that’s not only delicious but also steeped in nostalgia!
How to Make Tasty Cherry Mash Candy
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Prep Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch pan thoroughly, ensuring it’s ready for that rich, gooey goodness to come. This will help your candy release easily once it sets.
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Cook Mixture: In a large saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, butter, marshmallows, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat while stirring until everything is dissolved. Simmer until it reaches 240°F (about 5 minutes); you want it to bubble, but keep an eye on it!
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Add Cherry and Vanilla: Quickly stir in the cherry baking chips and vanilla extract until they melt into the mixture. Pour this luscious blend into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Let it cool at room temperature for about 1-2 hours until set.
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Prepare Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and chunky peanut butter. Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring until melted and smooth, about 1-3 minutes. The mixture should be creamy and delectable!
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Layer Chocolate: Once your cherry layer is firm, pour the chocolate topping over it, spreading it evenly to create that perfect finishing touch. Cool completely at room temperature or pop it in the fridge for faster setting.
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Cut into Squares: Once set, cut your beautiful creation into squares using a hot knife for cleaner slices. Each piece is a little slice of nostalgia!
Optional: Drizzle with extra melted chocolate for an indulgent finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Tasty Cherry Mash Candy
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Candy Thermometer Must-Have: Use a candy thermometer to ensure your mixture reaches exactly 240°F; this prevents a too-soft or too-hard texture.
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Avoid Stirring While Boiling: Once the mixture starts to boil, avoid stirring to prevent crystallization, which can make your candy grainy.
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Cool Completely for Perfect Cuts: Allow your candy to set fully at room temperature before cutting. This ensures neat squares and preserves the lovely layers.
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate chips and pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. It elevates the overall taste of your Tasty Cherry Mash Candy.
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Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different nut butters or sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top to enhance the sweet flavor of the chocolate layer.
Tasty Cherry Mash Candy Variations
Customize this delightful candy to suit your cravings and dietary needs with these fun ideas!
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Nut-Free: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free, creamy topping that’s just as delicious.
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Vegan: Use coconut cream instead of evaporated milk and swap the butter for a plant-based alternative; enjoy a guilt-free treat!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili powder to the chocolate layer for a surprising, delightful heat.
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Texture Twist: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the cherry mixture for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy textures.
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate crushed freeze-dried strawberries for an extra layer of fruity flavor—it’s like a summer berry explosion!
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Lower Sugar: Substitute coconut sugar or a stevia blend to reduce sweetness without sacrificing the delightful taste of your candy.
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Chocolate Variety: Experiment with different types of chocolate—try dark chocolate for a richer flavor profile that balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Minty Fresh: Mix in a few drops of peppermint extract into the chocolate topping for a refreshing twist reminiscent of mint chocolate confections.
How to Store and Freeze Tasty Cherry Mash Candy
Room Temperature: Keep your Tasty Cherry Mash Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain its delightful flavor and texture.
Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to a month; this can enhance the candy’s intensity while keeping it fresh. Be sure to use an airtight container to prevent moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual pieces of the candy in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to indulge, let the frozen candy sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before enjoying. This way, you can savor that rich, nostalgic flavor to the fullest!
Make Ahead Options
These Tasty Cherry Mash Candy treats are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cherry mixture up to 24 hours in advance, letting the flavors meld beautifully in the refrigerator. To do this, simply follow the cooking instructions up to layering the chocolate. After the cherry layer has cooled, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out, ensuring it remains just as delicious. When you’re ready to enjoy your candy, prepare the topping and spread it over the cooled cherry layer, then allow it to set at room temperature or refrigerate until firm. This advanced prep makes for effortless indulgence on a busy day or a gathering!
What to Serve with Tasty Cherry Mash Candy?
Enhance your candy experience with pairings that amplify nostalgia and satisfaction.
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Rich Dark Coffee: The bold flavors of dark coffee complement the sweetness of the candy, providing a perfect balance for your taste buds. Sip slowly and let the warmth embrace you!
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing adds a luscious creaminess that balances the fruity notes of the candy beautifully, creating a delightful contrast in textures.
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Fruity Herbal Tea: Opt for a cherry or berry-flavored herbal tea for a refreshing and light accompaniment that enhances the cherry flavors in the candy.
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Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: Crunchy and salty, these pretzels elevate the sweetness of the candy, creating a satisfying mix of sweet and savory that is irresistible.
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Milkshake: A thick cherry or vanilla milkshake pairs wonderfully, turning your candy into a nostalgic dessert experience reminiscent of childhood treats.
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Homemade Fudge: For those with a serious sweet tooth, serving this candy alongside rich, creamy fudge creates an indulgent spread that embraces the joys of homemade confections.
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Nutty Cookie Platter: Present a variety of nut cookies to contrast the smoothness of the candy with crunchy bites, each enhancing the overall flavor adventure.
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Sparkling Fruit Punch: Add a bubbly, fruity drink to your dessert table, which refreshes the palate and elevates your special occasion.
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Peanut Butter Cookies: The nutty flavors of these cookies echo the peanut butter layer in the candy, creating a harmony of tastes that everyone will love.
Tasty Cherry Mash Candy Recipe FAQs
What kind of cherries should I use?
I recommend using cherry baking chips for a concentrated cherry flavor without excess moisture. If you prefer a more intense fruitiness, you can substitute them with patted dried maraschino cherries. Just make sure to dry them well to avoid adding too much moisture to the candy.
How should I store Tasty Cherry Mash Candy?
Store your Tasty Cherry Mash Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep it longer, the refrigerator is a great option and can extend its freshness for up to a month.
Can I freeze Tasty Cherry Mash Candy?
Absolutely! For freezing, arrange individual pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months! When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to bring back that delicious chewiness.
What should I do if my candy is too soft or too hard?
If your candy turns out too soft, it likely wasn’t cooked to the right temperature—make sure to use a candy thermometer for future batches. For too hard a texture, this could mean it cooked a bit too long. If you encounter either problem, I recommend adjusting cooking times and using the thermometer as your best friend in candy making!
Is the candy safe for my pets or those with allergies?
Though Tasty Cherry Mash Candy is a delightful treat for humans, it contains ingredients like chocolate and sugar, which can be harmful to pets, particularly dogs. For those with nut allergies, be cautious with the peanut butter; using a nut-free alternative like sun butter is a great option. Always check with your doctor regarding dietary restrictions.
Tasty Cherry Mash Candy: A Sweet Slice of Nostalgia
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grease a 9x13-inch pan thoroughly to ensure candy releases easily once set.
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, butter, marshmallows, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat while stirring until dissolved. Simmer until it reaches 240°F (about 5 minutes).
- Quickly stir in the cherry baking chips and vanilla extract until melted. Pour into the prepared pan and let cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours until set.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and chunky peanut butter. Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring until melted and smooth, about 1-3 minutes.
- Once the cherry layer is firm, pour the chocolate topping over it, spreading it evenly. Cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting.
- Once set, cut into squares using a hot knife.
- Optional: Drizzle with extra melted chocolate for an indulgent finish.