Martha Washington Candy Recipe: A Classic Holiday Treat

Indulge in a timeless holiday favorite: Martha Washington candy! This classic recipe combines a creamy, coconutty center with crunchy pecans and sweet maraschino cherries, all encased in a decadent chocolate coating. It’s perfect for holiday gift-giving or a festive family treat—and the best part? These treats are easier to make than they look! Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that brings back sweet memories of simpler times.

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Why You’ll Love This Martha Washington Candy

This candy is not only rich and satisfying but also brings that holiday nostalgia with every bite. Here’s why I think you’ll love making it as much as I do:

• A Festive Tradition: This classic candy is perfect for holidays and special occasions.
• Easy to Make: With a few simple ingredients, you’ll be rolling out delicious treats in no time.
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrapped in festive boxes or bags, these candies make delightful gifts!
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Flavor: Creamy, nutty, and chocolaty goodness in every bite!

Check out our other festive treats like Peppermint Bark, Nut Brittle, and Snickerdoodle Truffles to create the ultimate holiday candy spread!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these mouthwatering Martha Washington candies:

• 1 cup butter, room temperature
• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 20 maraschino cherries, drained, chopped, and blotted dry
• 1 pound chocolate almond bark
• 1 cup white candy melts or white almond bark

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Baking sheets
• Parchment or wax paper
• Microwave-safe bowls
• Toothpick, dipping tool, or fork for dipping

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Ingredient Tips and Substitutions

• Nuts: Pecans give a great buttery crunch, but you can also use walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
• Coconut: For a nuttier flavor, swap out a portion of the coconut for extra nuts.
• Chocolate Coating: You can use milk, dark, or even white chocolate almond bark for variety.

How to Make Martha Washington Candy

Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll have your own delicious batch of Martha Washington candies!

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, confectioners’ sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until well blended. Add in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and cherries, stirring to combine.
2. Chill the Dough: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until firm enough to handle.
3. Line Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or wax paper and set aside.
4. Roll Into Balls: Remove the dough from the fridge and roll it into 1-inch balls, placing each one on the lined baking sheets.
5. Chill Again: Place the baking sheets in the refrigerator for another 2 hours or until the balls are firm. (You can also chill overnight for a firmer texture.)
6. Melt the Chocolate: Place half of the almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl and melt in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted.
7. Dip the Candies: Remove one tray of candies from the fridge and dip each ball into the melted chocolate using a toothpick, dipping tool, or fork. Tap off the excess chocolate and return the candy to the lined baking sheet. Repeat for the second batch with the remaining almond bark.
8. Drizzle with White Chocolate: Melt the white candy melts in the microwave and drizzle it over the candies for a decorative touch.
9. Set and Serve: Allow the chocolate coating to set completely before serving. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Martha Washington candies make a beautiful addition to holiday platters or cookie trays. Pair them with other treats like peppermint bark or nut brittle for a gorgeous homemade gift box. Arrange the candies in festive wrappers or decorative tins for a thoughtful holiday gift.

Tips for Perfect Martha Washington Candy

• Hands-Free Rolling: Lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar to prevent the candy mixture from sticking when you roll it.
• Chill Thoroughly: Make sure to chill the dough both before and after rolling to ensure the candies hold their shape.
• Decorate Creatively: Try using different colored candy melts or sprinkle edible glitter for extra holiday sparkle!

Storage Instructions

Store these candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For best flavor and texture, let them come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Martha Washington candies?
Yes! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Maraschino cherries are preferred for this recipe since they’re sweeter and have less moisture than fresh cherries. Fresh cherries may add too much moisture, making the candies harder to shape and store.

Is it necessary to use almond bark for coating?
No, you can also use chocolate chips with a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening added to make the coating smoother and easier to dip.

With these delightful Martha Washington candies, you’ll bring a little old-fashioned charm to your holiday season! These are perfect for sharing, gift-giving, or treating yourself to something sweet and nostalgic.

Don’t forget to save this recipe and share your creations! Follow us on Pinterest for more festive treats, and tag us with your beautiful holiday spreads! And for more delicious holiday recipes delivered to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter here. Enjoy every bite!

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