Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that brings a touch of nostalgia to any occasion. This easy-to-make old-fashioned candy combines the sweet flavors of coconut, pecans, and cherries, making it a perfect addition to holiday festivities or as a thoughtful gift. Not only does it look impressive on a cookie tray, but its rich and creamy texture will surely delight everyone who tries it.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Base
• For Coating
• How to Make Martha Washington Candy
• Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
• Step 2: Combine Ingredients
• Step 3: Chill the Mixture
• Step 4: Form Candy Balls
• Step 5: Prepare for Coating
• Step 6: Dip in Chocolate
• Step 7: Repeat Dipping Process
• Step 8: Store Properly
• How to Serve Martha Washington Candy
• On a Festive Cookie Tray
• As Gifts
• With Coffee or Tea
• At Parties
• How to Perfect Martha Washington Candy
• Best Side Dishes for Martha Washington Candy
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Martha Washington Candy
• Reheating Martha Washington Candy
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Martha Washington Candy?
• Can I customize Martha Washington Candy?
• How do I make Martha Washington Candy healthier?
• What if my chocolate coating is too thick?
• How should I store leftover Martha Washington Candy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious candies without spending hours in the kitchen.
• No Baking Required: This no-bake dessert means you can skip the oven and still enjoy homemade treats.
• Great for Gifting: Pack them in decorative boxes or jars; Martha Washington Candy makes an excellent gift for friends and family.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of coconut, pecans, and cherries creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
• Impressive Presentation: These candies look stunning on any dessert table, making them perfect for holiday gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make Martha Washington Candy successfully, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key items that will make your candy-making experience easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Paper towels
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Dipping tools (optional)
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows enough space to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
• Parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Dipping tools: Using dipping tools helps to coat the candy evenly and maintain its shape.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Martha Washington Candies:

For the Base

• 1 cup butter (melted)
• 1 pound powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 14 ounces shredded coconut (sweetened)
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
• 10 ounces maraschino cherries (drained and chopped)
• 3 cups finely chopped pecans

For Coating

• 16 ounces candy coating

How to Make Martha Washington Candy

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

Chop cherries into small pieces and place them on a paper towel so the liquid can be absorbed. Blot dry with additional paper towels.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except for the candy coating. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

Refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours. Chilling helps firm up the filling, making it easier to shape.

Step 4: Form Candy Balls

Using your hands, form the chilled mixture into balls about the size of walnuts or roughly 1 inch in diameter. Place them back in the refrigerator for an additional 20 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare for Coating

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt candy coating according to package directions until smooth.

Step 6: Dip in Chocolate

Dip each ball into the melted chocolate using dipping tools (if available). Tap off any excess chocolate before placing them on the lined baking sheet. Ensure you remove as much chocolate as possible; otherwise, it may pool at the bottom of each candy.

Step 7: Repeat Dipping Process

Continue this process until all balls are coated in chocolate.

Step 8: Store Properly

Store your completed Martha Washington Candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Enjoy sharing these delightful bites during your next holiday gathering!

How to Serve Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its sweet and rich flavor makes it perfect for sharing during holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful gift.

On a Festive Cookie Tray

• Layer with Other Treats: Combine with cookies, brownies, and fudge for an impressive display.
• Add Colorful Garnishes: Use sprinkles or edible glitter to enhance the visual appeal.

As Gifts

• Boxed Candies: Place individual candies in small boxes tied with ribbons for a charming gift.
• Holiday Jars: Fill mason jars with Martha Washington Candy for a rustic, homemade touch.

With Coffee or Tea

• Perfect Pairing: Enjoy these candies alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
• Coffee Break Treat: Serve them as a special treat during afternoon breaks for an extra boost.

At Parties

• Sweet Table Addition: Include them on dessert tables at parties to impress guests.
• Interactive Dessert Station: Set up a dipping station where guests can coat their own candies in chocolate.

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How to Perfect Martha Washington Candy

To achieve the best flavor and texture when making Martha Washington Candy, follow these essential tips.

• Chill Ingredients Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are cold before mixing; this helps the candy set properly.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cherries and quality chocolate coating will elevate the taste of your candies.
• Be Generous with Coconut: Adding more shredded coconut enhances both texture and flavor, making it more delightful.
• Control Chocolate Coating Temperature: Melt candy coating at a low temperature to prevent burning and maintain smoothness.
• Store Properly: Keep candies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Martha Washington Candy

Pairing side dishes with Martha Washington Candy can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses complements the sweetness of the candy beautifully.
2. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the candy.
3. Spiced Nuts: Crunchy spiced nuts provide a savory element that pairs well with sweet treats.
4. Mini Pastries: Offer small pastries like eclairs or cream puffs for variety on your dessert table.
5. Chocolate Fondue: A chocolate fondue station allows guests to dip fruits and marshmallows alongside the candies.
6. Coffee Variations: Serving flavored coffees such as mocha or hazelnut can enhance the overall dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Martha Washington Candy is simple, but there are a few common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Not drying cherries properly: Failing to blot the maraschino cherries can lead to excess moisture, making the mixture too wet. Always drain and dry them thoroughly before mixing.
• Skipping refrigeration: If you don’t chill the mixture before forming balls, they may not hold their shape. Be sure to refrigerate for at least two hours for better consistency.
• Overheating chocolate: Melting the candy coating too quickly can cause it to become thick and unworkable. Follow package instructions and melt slowly for best results.
• Poor storage: Storing candies in an unsealed container can lead to them becoming stale. Always use an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Ignoring chocolate coverage: Not tapping off excess chocolate can result in uneven coatings. Ensure you remove as much extra chocolate as you can before placing them on the baking sheet.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Martha Washington Candy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• • Container: Use an airtight container to keep the candies fresh and prevent them from absorbing odors.

Freezing Martha Washington Candy

• • Duration: You can freeze these candies for up to 3 months.
• • Container: Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Martha Washington Candy

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 200°F. Place candies on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid melting.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until just warm. Avoid overheating as it could melt the chocolate.
• Stovetop: Use a double boiler method over low heat, warming carefully while stirring gently until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions when it comes to making Martha Washington Candy. Here are some of the most common inquiries:

What is Martha Washington Candy?

Martha Washington Candy is a no-bake treat made from coconut, pecans, and cherries, coated in chocolate. It’s a delightful addition to holiday celebrations.

Can I customize Martha Washington Candy?

Yes! You can add different nuts like walnuts or almonds instead of pecans, or even incorporate dried fruits for added flavor.

How do I make Martha Washington Candy healthier?

To make this candy healthier, consider using unsweetened coconut and reducing the amount of powdered sugar used in the recipe.

What if my chocolate coating is too thick?

If your candy coating is too thick, try adding a small amount of vegetable oil or shortening while melting it down to achieve a smoother consistency.

How should I store leftover Martha Washington Candy?

Store leftover candies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

Martha Washington Candy is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for gift-giving or holiday gatherings. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, this easy candy recipe will surely impress everyone. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!