Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that brings nostalgia and joy to any gathering. This easy-to-make old-fashioned candy combines the sweetness of coconut, the richness of pecans, and the vibrant touch of cherries, making it perfect for holidays and special occasions. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or create a heartfelt gift, Martha Washington Candy stands out with its beautiful presentation and delicious flavor.

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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 Candy Filling
• For the Coating
• How to Make Martha Washington Candy
• Step 1: Prepare Cherries
• Step 2: Mix Ingredients
• Step 3: Chill Mixture
• Step 4: Form Balls
• Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheet
• Step 6: Dip Candies
• Step 7: Repeat Dipping Process
• Step 8: Store Candies
• How to Serve Martha Washington Candy
• On a Festive Cookie Tray
• As a Sweet Gift
• With Coffee or Tea
• At Holiday Parties
• During Movie Nights
• For Special Occasions
• 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 my Martha Washington Candy?
• How do I prevent my chocolate from cracking?
• What if my candy coating isn’t smooth?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these candies in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply indulging at home.
• Impressive Presentation: These candies look stunning on a cookie tray, making them an eye-catching addition to any dessert table.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of coconut, cherries, and pecans creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
• No Baking Required: Enjoy the benefits of homemade candy without turning on the oven.

Tools and Preparation

To make Martha Washington Candy, you’ll need some basic tools that will help streamline the process. Having the right equipment ensures that your candies turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without mess.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Dipping tools: These handy gadgets help you dip the candy balls into chocolate without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Candy Filling

• 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 the Coating

• 16 ounces candy coating

How to Make Martha Washington Candy

Step 1: Prepare Cherries

Chop cherries into small pieces and place them on a paper towel. This helps absorb excess liquid. Blot dry with additional paper towels to ensure they’re not too wet.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

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

Step 3: Chill Mixture

Refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours. The colder it gets, the faster the chocolate will set.

Step 4: Form Balls

After chilling, form the mixture into balls about the size of walnuts or approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place these balls back in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to firm up.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the candy melts according to package directions in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler.

Step 6: Dip Candies

Using dipping tools or forks, dip each ball into melted chocolate. Tap off any excess chocolate before placing them on the lined baking sheet. Make sure to remove as much chocolate as possible to prevent pooling at the bottom.

Step 7: Repeat Dipping Process

Continue dipping each ball until all are covered in delicious chocolate.

Step 8: Store Candies

Once fully set, store your Martha Washington Candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Enjoy sharing this delightful treat!

How to Serve Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply want to share these confections with friends and family, here are some creative serving suggestions.

On a Festive Cookie Tray

• Arrange the candies alongside other holiday cookies for a colorful and inviting dessert display.

As a Sweet Gift

• Place Martha Washington Candies in decorative boxes or bags to create thoughtful gifts for neighbors or friends during the holidays.

With Coffee or Tea

• Serve these candies with your favorite hot beverages to enhance your afternoon snack or dessert experience.

At Holiday Parties

• Offer these treats at gatherings as a sweet addition to your appetizer spread that guests will love.

During Movie Nights

• Use them as a fun snack while watching movies at home; their rich flavor pairs well with popcorn.

For Special Occasions

• Present them on special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries to impress guests with homemade delights.

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How to Perfect Martha Washington Candy

To make your Martha Washington Candy truly exceptional, here are some helpful tips. These will ensure your candy turns out delicious every time.

• Chill the Mixture – Refrigerating the filling helps it set properly and makes forming the balls easier.

• Use Quality Chocolate – Opt for high-quality candy coating for the best taste and smooth finish.

• Don’t Rush the Coating – Take your time when dipping each ball to avoid excess chocolate pooling at the bottom.

• Experiment with Add-Ins – Consider adding crushed nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.

• Store Properly – Keep candies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to two weeks.

Best Side Dishes for Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing your dessert table. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the rich flavors of the candy perfectly.

2. Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the candy.

3. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses provides a savory contrast that enhances the overall tasting experience.

4. Chocolate Fondue – Serve alongside chocolate fondue for an interactive dessert experience; guests can dip fruits or pretzels as well!

5. Coffee Cake – The lightness of coffee cake pairs nicely with these sweet treats, making for an enjoyable brunch option.

6. Pecan Pie – For those who love nuts, pecan pie offers a rich and satisfying side that complements the pecans in the candy.

7. Homemade Whipped Cream – Adding dollops of homemade whipped cream can elevate each bite of candy into something special.

8. Spiced Nuts – The crunch and spice from roasted nuts provide a delightful textural contrast to the soft candies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Martha Washington Candy can be simple, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some tips to ensure your candy turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the drying step: Not blotting the cherries dry can lead to excess moisture, which affects the texture of your candy. Always ensure they are well-drained and dried.
• Not chilling the mixture: If you skip refrigerating the filling, it may become too soft to form into balls. Always chill for at least two hours for best results.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many chocolate-covered balls on one sheet can cause them to stick together. Space them out properly to allow for setting.
• Ignoring candy coating instructions: Each brand of candy melts has specific melting instructions. Follow these carefully to avoid seizing or burning the chocolate.
• Forgetting about storage conditions: Storing candies in a warm place can cause them to melt or become sticky. Keep them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Martha Washington Candy in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
• Use parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Martha Washington Candy

• Place candies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Martha Washington Candy

• Oven: Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C) and warm candies on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until slightly softened.
• Microwave: Heat on low power in 10-15 second intervals until just softened; be careful not to melt completely.
• Stovetop: Use a double boiler method with low heat, stirring gently until softened.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Martha Washington Candy that can help clarify your baking process.

What is Martha Washington Candy?

Martha Washington Candy is a delightful old-fashioned treat made with coconut, pecans, and cherries, all coated in chocolate. It’s perfect for holiday gifting and gatherings.

Can I customize my Martha Washington Candy?

Absolutely! You can add different nuts like walnuts or almonds, swap out cherries for dried fruits, or even use dark chocolate instead of candy coating for variety.

How do I prevent my chocolate from cracking?

To avoid cracks in the chocolate coating, ensure that your filling is well-chilled before dipping. Also, do not let the dipped candies sit out too long before they set.

What if my candy coating isn’t smooth?

If your candy coating seems lumpy or thick, try adding a small amount of vegetable oil or shortening while melting it. This helps achieve a smoother consistency.

Final Thoughts

Martha Washington Candy is not only delicious but also offers great versatility for customization. Whether you’re making this easy candy recipe as gifts or just for yourself during the holidays, it’s sure to impress everyone. Try experimenting with different flavors and textures!