The Dreamy Martha Washington Candies Recipe You’ll Adore

Sweet and creamy Martha Washington candies dance between nostalgia and pure indulgence.

These classic confections capture the essence of homemade treats with their rich, decadent flavor.

Generations of home bakers have treasured this beloved recipe passed down through family kitchens.

Chocolate and coconut meld together in a delightful harmony that melts in your mouth.

Each bite tells a story of traditional American dessert craftsmanship.

You’ll love how simple ingredients create such an extraordinary confection.

Prepare to transform your kitchen into a sweet paradise with these irresistible candies that promise pure delectable joy.

Candy Making Tools for Martha Washington Bites

• Mixing Bowl: Large bowl for combining ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring Cups/Spoons: Precise measurements for ingredients.
• Paper Towels: Drying chopped cherries completely.
• Cutting Board: Surface for finely chopping cherries.
• Sharp Knife: Precise chopping of cherries.
• Baking Sheet: Lined with parchment for chilling and setting candies.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Double Boiler or Microwave: Melting candy coating smoothly.
• Dipping Fork: Helps coat candies evenly in chocolate.
• Refrigerator: Chilling mixture and setting candies.

Directions for Martha Washington Candy Perfection

Step 1: Finely Chop Cherries

Grab your sharp knife and carefully chop maraschino cherries into tiny pieces.

Spread the chopped cherries on paper towels and pat them completely dry to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Create Candy Base

• Melted butter
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Shredded coconut
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Dried cherry pieces
• Chopped pecans

Step 3: Mix Into Sticky Delight

Stir all ingredients together using a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula.

Keep mixing until everything blends into a cohesive, slightly sticky mixture that holds together nicely.

Step 4: Chill Filling

Transfer the mixture to the refrigerator and let it rest for at least 2 hours.

This cooling time helps the filling become firm and easier to handle.

Step 5: Roll Candy Balls

Take the chilled mixture and roll it between your palms, creating small balls approximately the size of a walnut.

Work quickly to keep the mixture cool.

Step 6: Quick Chill

Place the formed candy balls on a tray lined with parchment paper.

Return them to the refrigerator for an additional 20 minutes to firm up.

Step 7: Prepare Dipping Station

Line a baking sheet with fresh parchment paper.

This will be your landing spot for the finished candies.

Step 8: Melt Chocolate Coating

Carefully melt your chocolate coating following the package instructions.

Stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 9: Chocolate Dunk

Remove chilled balls from refrigerator.

Using a dipping fork or toothpick, submerge each ball into melted chocolate.

Gently tap to remove excess coating.

Step 10: Final Set

Place chocolate-covered candies on the prepared parchment-lined sheet.

Allow them to sit at room temperature until the chocolate coating completely hardens.

Pro Tips for Creamy, Dreamy Candies

• Pat maraschino cherries super dry to prevent excess moisture affecting candy texture.
• Refrigerating mixture helps create firm, easy-to-handle balls that maintain their form during dipping.
• Ensure butter and other ingredients are at room temperature for smoother, more consistent mixing.
• Lightly grease hands with butter or cooking spray when shaping balls to reduce sticky residue.
• Keep candy coating warm by using a double boiler or heating pad to maintain smooth dipping consistency.

Creative Twists for Classic Candy Fans

• Nut-Free Delight: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for those with nut allergies, maintaining the same rich texture and flavor profile.
• Vegan Version: Swap condensed milk with coconut cream, use dairy-free chocolate coating, and choose plant-based butter alternatives to create a completely vegan-friendly treat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients, especially the candy coating, are certified gluten-free, making these candies safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Low-Sugar Adaptation: Substitute powdered sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall sugar content while keeping the candy's signature sweetness.

Serving Up Martha Washington Candies with Flair

• Sweet Dessert Platter: Arrange Martha Washington Candies beautifully on a decorative white plate with scattered whole pecans and fresh mint leaves for elegant presentation.
• Holiday Gift Packaging: Wrap candies in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons, perfect for homemade edible gifts during Christmas or special occasions.
• Coffee Companion: Serve these delightful candies alongside espresso or hot cocoa for a luxurious after-dinner treat that complements rich, warm beverages.
• Party Centerpiece: Create a stunning candy display by stacking candies on tiered serving stands with small decorative doilies underneath, adding visual appeal to dessert tables.

Storage Tips for Old-Fashioned Candies

• Seal Martha Washington Candies in airtight container, layer between wax paper, store up to 1 week in refrigerator for maximum freshness.
• Wrap individual candies in plastic wrap, place in freezer-safe container, freeze up to 3 months without losing texture or flavor quality.
• Store in cool, dry location inside sealed container away from direct sunlight, consume within 3-4 days for best taste experience.
• Remove frozen candies from freezer, let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving, allowing chocolate coating to soften naturally.

FAQs

• Are Martha Washington Candies difficult to make?

No, they’re surprisingly easy! With basic ingredients and simple steps, even beginner bakers can successfully create these delicious treats.

• Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?

Yes, you can swap maraschino cherries for dried cherries, use different nuts like walnuts instead of pecans, and experiment with white or dark chocolate coating.

• How long do Martha Washington Candies last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these candies can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. They also freeze wonderfully for longer storage.

• Do I need special equipment to make these candies?

Not at all! You’ll only need basic kitchen tools like mixing bowls, a baking sheet, parchment paper, and a spoon for dipping and coating.

Martha Washington Candies Why They’re Iconic

• Recreate a classic candy that brings back warm memories of homemade desserts, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
• Discover a simple recipe that transforms basic ingredients into stunning, professional-looking chocolates without requiring advanced culinary skills.
• Experiment with different nuts, cherries, or chocolate coatings to personalize these delightful candies to your taste preferences.
• Serve these elegant, handcrafted candies at parties or gatherings, guaranteeing compliments and delighted reactions from friends and family.

What You Need for Martha Washington Sweets

• Maraschino Cherries: Sweet red cherries that add a delightful fruity flavor and bright color to the candies.
• Pecans: Crunchy nuts that provide a rich, nutty texture and enhance the overall taste of the candies.

• Powdered Sugar, Condensed Milk, Butter: These ingredients create a smooth, sweet base that holds the candy mixture together and provides a creamy consistency.
• Vanilla: A classic flavoring that adds depth and warmth to the candy's taste profile.

• Candy Coating, Coconut: The coating creates a glossy exterior that seals the candies, while coconut adds a subtle tropical hint and extra texture.

Martha Washington Candies Recipe

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4.6 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

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Description

Sweet martha washington candies emerge as a classic confection from American culinary history. Coconut, condensed milk, and pecans blend into delightful bite-sized treats cherished by many dessert enthusiasts. You will love these nostalgic confections.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups finely chopped pecans
• 14 ounces (397 grams) sweetened shredded coconut
• 10 ounces (283 grams) maraschino cherries, drained and chopped

Base Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) powdered sugar
• 1 cup (227 grams) butter, melted
• 14 ounces (397 grams) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Coating Ingredient:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) candy coating

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Instructions

1. Meticulously drain maraschino cherries, then pat completely dry using absorbent paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Merge softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, finely chopped cherries, and chopped pecans in a large mixing bowl.
3. Blend ingredients thoroughly until a cohesive, slightly sticky mixture forms, ensuring even distribution of all components.
4. Refrigerate the prepared mixture for approximately 2 hours, allowing it to firm up and become more manageable.
5. Using clean hands, carefully roll the chilled mixture into uniform 1-inch spheres, roughly the size of a walnut.
6. Position formed candies on a parchment-lined tray, then return to refrigerator for an additional 20-minute cooling period.
7. Prepare a baking sheet with fresh parchment paper to receive the chocolate-coated confections.
8. Gently melt candy coating using recommended package instructions, stirring until achieving a smooth, glossy consistency.
9. Delicately immerse each chilled ball into melted coating, gently tapping to remove excess chocolate and ensure even coverage.
10. Arrange chocolate-dipped candies on prepared sheet, allowing coating to solidify completely at room temperature.

Notes

• Pat cherries completely dry to prevent excess moisture from ruining candy texture.
• Use fresh, high-quality maraschino cherries for best flavor and appearance.
• Chill mixture thoroughly to ensure easy ball formation without sticking to hands.
• Select premium chocolate coating for rich, smooth exterior and professional finish.
• Experiment with dark or white chocolate coatings for flavor variations.
• Work quickly when dipping to maintain consistent chocolate coverage.
• Store candies in cool, dry place to preserve texture and prevent melting.
• Consider using gloves during shaping to keep mixture from sticking to hands.
• Keep candies refrigerated for firmer consistency and extended shelf life.
• Customize by adding different nuts or dried fruit for unique flavor profiles.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Chilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 177
• Sugar: 16 g
• Sodium: 25 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg