Martha Washington Candy Recipe

If you’re looking to whip up a nostalgic, chewy, and delightfully nutty treat, the Martha Washington Candy Recipe is an absolute must-try. This classic candy bursts with the rich flavors of coconut, pecans, and cherries, all lovingly enveloped in smooth chocolate. Whether you’re preparing for the holidays or craving a homemade sweet snack, this Martha Washington Candy Recipe delivers that perfect old-fashioned charm that makes every bite feel like a warm hug from the past.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Martha Washington Candy comes alive with a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building the creamy texture, luscious taste, and beautiful colors that make this candy so special.

• Butter (room temperature): Provides rich, creamy body and helps bind the ingredients together smoothly.
• Confectioners’ sugar: Adds sweetness and a silky texture essential for the candy’s melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Brings a luscious, sweet creaminess that holds everything in harmony.
• Vanilla extract: Offers a warm, fragrant flavor that gently rounds out the sweetness.
• Sweetened shredded coconut: Adds chewy texture and a hint of tropical flavor that brightens every bite.
• Chopped pecans: Provide a toasty crunch and a nutty depth that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Maraschino cherries (drained, chopped, and blotted dry): Deliver bursts of juicy, slightly tart flavor and vibrant pops of color.
• Chocolate almond bark: Creates a smooth, glossy coating that encases the candy for that irresistible chocolate hit.
• White candy melts or white almond bark: Used for a beautiful, decorative drizzle that adds charm and a touch of elegance.

How to Make Martha Washington Candy Recipe

Step 1: Mixing the Base

Start by combining room temperature butter, confectioners’ sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy base is the heart of the candy and sets the stage for all the gorgeous flavors and textures to come.

Step 2: Adding the Goodies

Now it’s time to mix in the sweetened shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and chopped maraschino cherries. These ingredients add wonderful chewiness, crunch, and bursts of fruity sweetness that make the Martha Washington Candy Recipe truly unforgettable. Mix thoroughly to ensure every bite will be perfectly balanced.

Step 3: Chill and Firm Up the Dough

Cover your mixture and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up. For the best results, an overnight chill will make the candy easier to shape and create a sturdier texture. This step is essential because it transforms your mixture into a manageable dough, making the next steps much smoother.

Step 4: Prepare Your Work Surface

Line two baking sheets with parchment or wax paper. This prevents the candy balls from sticking and helps keep everything neat as you work through the next steps.

Step 5: Shape the Candy Balls

Take the chilled dough and roll it into 1-inch balls, dividing the batch evenly between the two lined baking sheets. Getting the balls uniform in size helps with even chilling and ensures consistent candy pieces for serving.

Step 6: Chill Again for Firmness

Return the baking sheets to the refrigerator for at least two hours, or ideally overnight. This second chilling step firms the balls up nicely so they will hold their shape during the chocolate dipping process.

Step 7: Melt the Chocolate Almond Bark

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt half of the chocolate almond bark in 30-second increments, stirring in between until it is smooth and fully melted. This glossy coating will give the candy that perfect chocolate shell.

Step 8: Dip the First Batch

Remove one baking sheet from the fridge and use a toothpick, dipping tool, or fork to coat each candy ball completely in the melted almond bark. Tap off excess chocolate and place the coated candies back on the lined baking sheet. This part takes patience but is key to achieving that wonderful chocolate-covered texture.

Step 9: Chill the First Batch

Pop the dipped candies back into the refrigerator to let the chocolate set firmly before moving on to the next batch.

Step 10: Dip the Second Batch

Repeat the melting and dipping process with the remaining almond bark and the second tray of chilled dough balls. Then refrigerate again to let the coating fully harden.

Step 11: Add a Decorative White Chocolate Drizzle

Melt the white candy melts or white almond bark, then drizzle it artistically over all the dipped candies. This adds a lovely visual contrast and a hint of extra sweetness that makes your Martha Washington Candy Recipe truly shine.

Step 12: Final Set

Allow the white drizzle and chocolate coatings to set completely in the refrigerator, about 30 minutes. Once firm, your candies are ready to be enjoyed or gifted!

Step 13: Enjoy!

Take a moment to appreciate your handiwork, then dive into savoring these scrumptious homemade treats that capture the spirit and flavor of the classic Martha Washington Candy Recipe.

How to Serve Martha Washington Candy Recipe

Garnishes

While these candies are a treat on their own, adding a sprinkle of crushed pecans or a tiny piece of maraschino cherry on top before the chocolate sets can elevate the presentation and add a special finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Pair Martha Washington Candy with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a creamy glass of milk. The rich flavors and chewy textures beautifully complement warm beverages, making snack time feel like a comforting celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the candies in festive paper cupcake liners or place them in a decorative tin with layers of parchment between to keep them fresh and visually appealing. For holidays or special occasions, consider wrapping them individually with colorful foil or cellophane tied with a ribbon for easy gift-giving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Martha Washington Candy should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps them fresh and preserves the firmness of the chocolate coating for up to two weeks.

Freezing

If you want to store these candies longer, freezing works well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight to maintain their creamy texture and delicious flavor.

Reheating

There is no need to reheat this candy before eating. If you prefer a softer texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving, but keep in mind that they are best enjoyed chilled to preserve their signature bite.

FAQs

What makes Martha Washington Candy special?

This candy stands out thanks to its rich, creamy texture combined with bursts of coconut, pecans, and cherries, all enveloped in a smooth chocolate coating that really brings the nostalgia and flavor to life.

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Martha Washington Candy Recipe?

While the original ingredients create the distinctive flavor, you can experiment by swapping pecans for walnuts or using semi-sweet chocolate instead of almond bark. Just keep in mind these changes might alter the classic taste and texture.

How long does Martha Washington Candy last?

Stored properly in the fridge, these candies can last up to two weeks. Freezing can extend their lifespan to about three months while preserving their delicious quality.

Is it necessary to use almond bark for coating?

Almond bark is recommended because it melts smoothly and sets with a crisp finish, but you can use regular chocolate chips or candy melts if preferred. The key is to ensure whatever you use melts well and hardens nicely.

Can I make Martha Washington Candy dairy-free or vegan?

This recipe relies heavily on dairy, especially butter and condensed milk. For a vegan version, you would need dairy-free substitutes and a condensed milk alternative, but expect some differences in texture and taste.

Final Thoughts

Making the Martha Washington Candy Recipe is a joyful experience that brings a little sweetness and warmth to any occasion. Its blend of familiar flavors and satisfying textures makes it a cherished homemade treat to share with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to try your hand at this delicious classic candy — I promise you’ll fall in love with every bite just like I did!

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