cherry mash candy recipe
The Best cherry mash candy recipe
The thing I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can adjust the sweetness or the amount of cherries based on what you’re serving—maybe a little extra tartness for a summer picnic or a milder version if you’re feeding picky eaters. It’s also surprisingly healthy in a way that feels indulgent. The natural sugars in the cherries balance out the refined sugar, and the antioxidants in the berries make it a little more than just a sweet treat. I’ve even had friends swear by it for soothing sore throats, though I’ll let you try it and see if it works for you. It’s the kind of thing that feels like a little extra effort, but the payoff is worth it—especially when you’re sharing it with people who matter.
Classic Cherry Mash Candy
A rich, fruity candy made with a simple dough and a sweet cherry sauce. Perfect for a nostalgic treat.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup cherry jam
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F. Mix flour and salt in a bowl. -
2
In a separate bowl, combine cherry jam, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Simmer over medium heat until thickened, about 10–12 minutes, until it coats the back of a spoon. -
3
Roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness on a floured surface. -
4
Spread the cherry sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. -
5
Roll the dough back up tightly, sealing the edges with a bit of water. -
6
Cut into squares or strips and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. -
7
Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Cherry Mash Candy Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Mash Candy
How do I adjust the sweetness level in this cherry mash candy?
Yes, you can easily adjust sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of sugar in the syrup. For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by about 2 tablespoons and simmer longer to concentrate the flavors. For a sweeter taste, add an extra 2 tablespoons at the end of cooking.
What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
You can estimate the temperature by using a candy thermometer’s visual guides or by testing the syrup with a clean metal spoon. When it reaches the soft-ball stage (around 234°F), it will feel like the center of a soft-boiled egg when dipped into cold water. If you’re unsure, cook slightly longer and test again.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry juice?
Fresh cherries work, but they’ll require extra steps. First, simmer them with water and sugar to extract the juice, then strain and reduce it to a thick syrup. This method takes longer but yields a richer flavor.
How long can I store the finished candy?
Store the cherry mash candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to one month. Avoid exposing it to moisture, which can cause it to soften.
What if the candy doesn’t harden properly?
If the candy remains sticky, let it cool completely and place it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to firm up. If it’s still too soft, reduce the sugar slightly in the next batch or add a bit more time to the cooling step.
