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Martha Washington Candies Recipe

Martha Washington Candies Recipe


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4.6 from 32 reviews

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

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.


Ingredients

Scale

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

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