Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy is an easy-to-make old-fashioned candy that brings a delightful combination of flavors to your holiday celebrations. This treat features sweetened coconut, crunchy pecans, and juicy cherries, making it an ideal choice for gift-giving or as a standout addition to any cookie tray. Perfect for Christmas and other festive occasions, this recipe will impress your friends and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a large batch of these candies.
• Perfect for Gifting: Their beautiful appearance and rich flavors make them a wonderful homemade gift.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences—add more nuts or try different coatings!
• No Baking Required: Enjoy the ease of no-bake desserts while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Martha Washington Candy is sure to be a hit at holiday parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Parchment paper
• Dipping tools (optional)
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without mess.
• Parchment paper: It helps prevent sticking when placing the candies on the baking sheet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Dipping tools: These handy gadgets make it easier to dip the candy balls in chocolate without making a mess.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Martha Washington Candy:

For the 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 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 allows excess liquid to be absorbed. Blot dry with additional paper towels to ensure they are not too wet.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

Refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours. A colder filling will help the chocolate set more quickly when dipped.

Step 4: Shape Balls

Form the chilled mixture into balls about 1 inch in size, roughly the size of a walnut. Place them back in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare for Dipping

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

Step 6: Dip in Chocolate

Using dipping tools if you have them, dip each ball into the melted chocolate. Tap off any excess coating to prevent pooling at the bottom, then place on the lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Repeat Dipping Process

Continue dipping each ball until they are all covered in chocolate. Ensure even coverage for a polished look.

Step 8: Store Your Candies

Allow chocolates to set completely at room temperature. Once set, store your Martha Washington Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Enjoy!

How to Serve Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that brings joy to any gathering. Whether it’s a festive holiday party or a casual get-together, there are many ways to present and enjoy these delicious candies.

On a Dessert Platter

• Create a stunning dessert platter by arranging Martha Washington Candies alongside other sweets like brownies and cookies. This colorful display will impress your guests!

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Package individual pieces in small boxes or cellophane bags tied with ribbons. These make wonderful gifts for friends and family during the holidays or any special occasion.

At a Cookie Exchange

• Bring Martha Washington Candy to cookie exchanges for a unique twist. Their rich flavor paired with other cookies will be a hit among participants.

As Party Favors

• Offer these candies as party favors at weddings or birthdays. Guests will appreciate the homemade touch and delicious flavor they provide.

With Coffee or Tea

• Serve Martha Washington Candy alongside coffee or tea as an after-dinner treat. The sweet richness complements the warm beverages perfectly.

During Movie Nights

• Enjoy these candies while watching your favorite films. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to munch on without interrupting the movie experience.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Martha Washington Candy

To make sure your Martha Washington Candy turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate the filling for at least two hours. A colder mixture helps chocolate set quickly when dipped.

• Dry Cherries Thoroughly: Ensure maraschino cherries are well-drained and dried before adding them to the mixture. This prevents excess moisture from ruining the candy’s texture.

• Use Quality Chocolate: Choose high-quality candy coating for dipping. Better chocolate results in richer flavor and smoother coating.

• Properly Portion Balls: Aim for uniform ball sizes (about 1 inch). This ensures even coating and consistent serving sizes.

• Store Correctly: Keep candies in an airtight container at room temperature. This preserves their freshness for up to two weeks.

• Experiment with Toppings: Try sprinkling crushed nuts or coconut on top of the dipped candies for extra flair and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweet flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the candy, providing a lighter option.

2. Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses like brie and gouda for a savory contrast that enhances the overall tasting experience.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with scoops of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert pairing, perfect for those who love creamy textures.

4. Coffee Cake: The moist crumb of coffee cake complements the rich flavors of Martha Washington Candy beautifully.

5. Nut Mix: A blend of lightly salted nuts offers crunch and saltiness, which contrasts nicely with the sweet candy.

6. Chocolate Fondue: Create a fun dessert station where guests can dip fruit, marshmallows, or even pieces of Martha Washington Candy into warm chocolate fondue.

7. Pound Cake Slices: Serve slices of buttery pound cake alongside these candies for an indulgent treat that pairs well with coffee or tea.

8. Mini Muffins: Sweet mini muffins can be served alongside as bite-sized treats that complement the rich taste of the candy without being overpowering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Martha Washington Candy can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes you should watch out for.

• Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too much can make your candy dense. Stir just until everything is combined for a better texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you don’t refrigerate the mixture long enough, it will be hard to form into balls. Chill for at least two hours to achieve the right consistency.
• Not drying cherries properly: Excess moisture from the cherries can ruin the texture of your candy. Make sure to blot them dry thoroughly before adding them to the mixture.
• Using improper chocolate coating: Not all chocolate coatings melt the same way. Follow package instructions carefully for melting to ensure smooth dipping.
• Neglecting storage conditions: Storing candies in humid environments can cause them to spoil faster. Keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Martha Washington Candy in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Martha Washington Candy

• Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Martha Washington Candy

• Oven: Preheat to 250°F and warm candies on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use low power settings; warm for 15-20 seconds at a time, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place candies in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Martha Washington Candy?

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

How do I customize Martha Washington Candy?

You can customize this recipe by adding different nuts or dried fruits according to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment!

Can I make Martha Washington Candy ahead of time?

Yes! This candy stores well and can be made several days in advance, making it ideal for holiday preparations.

How long does Martha Washington Candy last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 2 weeks at room temperature and up to 3 months if frozen.

Is there a gluten-free version of Martha Washington Candy?

Yes! All the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Martha Washington Candy is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Its delightful combination of flavors makes it perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays. Don’t hesitate to try your variations — whether it’s changing up the nuts or adding new flavors — this candy is sure to impress everyone!