Martha Washington Candy Delight Recipe

A plate of homemade Martha Washington candy, showcasing its rich chocolate and coconut layers.

By :

Laura

October 26, 2025

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Why make this recipe

Martha Washington Candy Delight is a delicious treat that combines sweet, creamy flavors with a touch of crunch. This candy is not only a favorite during the holiday season but can be enjoyed any time of year. Making it is a great activity for families, as it allows everyone to participate in the fun of creating something sweet together. You can also give them as gifts to friends and loved ones, making them feel special and cherished.

This recipe is full of rich flavors like coconut and pecans, and the chocolate coating makes everything even better. The chewy texture and creamy filling give it a unique taste that you just can’t resist. Plus, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s easy to whip up a batch for any occasion.

How to make Martha Washington Candy Delight

Making Martha Washington Candy Delight is a straightforward process. With just a few simple steps, you will create a delightful treat that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious candy.

Ingredients

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

Directions

Mix the Base: Start by creaming the room temperature butter in a large bowl. Gradually add the confectioners sugar and mix until light and fluffy.
Add the Wet Ingredients: Next, pour in the sweetened condensed milk and add the vanilla extract. Mix until it’s well combined.
Incorporate the Add-Ins: Stir in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and the chopped maraschino cherries. Make sure everything is evenly mixed together for the best flavor.
Shape the Candies: Once the mixture is well combined, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place half of the rolled candies on each lined baking sheet.
Chill: Refrigerate the sheets for about 2 hours or until the candies are firm. For better results, chilling them overnight is recommended.
Dip in Chocolate: Take one tray of chilled candies from the fridge. Using a toothpick, dipping tool, or fork, dip each candy ball into the melted chocolate. Tap off the excess chocolate.
Set the Candy: Place the dipped candies back onto the lined baking sheet. Once done with the first tray, return it to the fridge to set. Repeat the dip process with the second baking sheet.
Enjoy: Allow the chocolate to fully set. Your Martha Washington Candy Delight is now ready to serve! Enjoy the treat yourself or share it with family and friends!

Nutriments benefits

Martha Washington Candy Delight not only tastes great but also offers some nutritional benefits:

Coconut: A great source of healthy fats and fiber.
Pecans: Rich in antioxidants and nutrients, pecans provide healthy fats and may help reduce cholesterol levels.
Cherries: Packed with vitamins, cherries are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Butter: In moderation, butter can offer vitamins A, D, E, and K.

While this candy is sweet and should be enjoyed as a treat, there are some nutritious elements packed in each bite, making it a little more special.

What to Serve With Martha Washington Candy Delight

Martha Washington Candy Delight pairs well with various drinks and foods. Here are some suggestions:

Coffee or Tea: The sweetness of the candy complements the bitterness of coffee or tea nicely.
Milk: A cold glass of milk is a classic pairing with sweets and cuts the sweetness of the candy.
Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delicious dessert combination.
Fruit: Fresh fruit such as strawberries or raspberries bring a touch of freshness and balance out the richness of the candy.

Why You’ll Love This

There are many reasons to love Martha Washington Candy Delight. It’s easy to make, involves fun mixing and rolling, and produces a yummy treat that everyone enjoys. The combination of flavors—rich chocolate, sweet coconut, crunchy pecans, and juicy cherries—creates a delightful symphony of tastes in your mouth. This recipe is perfect for gifting, holidays, or any festive occasion.

How to store Martha Washington Candy Delight

To keep your Martha Washington Candy Delight fresh, follow these storage tips:

Air-tight Container: Store the candies in an air-tight container. This will prevent them from drying out or absorbing any strange odors from your fridge.
Refrigerate: Keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This also helps maintain their firmness and texture.
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat them within a few days, you can store them in a cool, dark place at room temperature. Just make sure they are kept in an air-tight container.

Tips and mistakes to avoid

Mixing: Be sure to mix the butter and sugar properly to create a fluffy base. If it’s too dense, it may not roll into balls easily.
Chilling: Do not skip the chilling step! It helps the candies hold their shape when you dip them in chocolate.
Dipping: Use a toothpick or fork to dip your candies into the melted chocolate. If you’re using too much chocolate, it can overpower the flavor.
Setting: Allow ample time for the chocolate to set in the fridge; this keeps the candy clean and presentable.

Variation

For those who want to experiment, here are a few variations you can try:

Different Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor and crunch.
Flavored Extracts: Add a splash of almond or coconut extract to intensify the flavors.
Add Dried Fruit: Mix in some dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture.
Dark Chocolate: Instead of chocolate almond bark, you can use dark chocolate to add an extra depth of flavor.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These candies can be made several days in advance. Just make sure to store them properly.
Can I freeze Martha Washington Candy Delight?
Absolutely! They can be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure to store them in an airtight container.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes, you can experiment with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate according to your taste preference.
What can I do with leftover candies?
You can crumble any leftover candy and sprinkle them over vanilla ice cream or yogurt as a delicious topping.

Martha Washington Candy Delight is a timeless treat that’s easy to make and simply delightful. Enjoy creating this sweet candy, and don’t forget to share the joy with those around you!