Martha Washington Candy

By :

Emma

October 26, 2025

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

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Why make this recipe

Martha Washington Candy is not just a treat; it is a sweet bite filled with nostalgia and tradition. Named after the wife of George Washington, this candy has become a cherished dessert that many families make during the holidays and special occasions. With its creamy center, rich chocolate coating, and delightful crunch from pecans and coconut, it captures the essence of homemade goodness. What makes this recipe special is how simple it is to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. You can create beautiful, delicious candies that will impress your family and friends.

How to make Martha Washington Candy

Making Martha Washington Candy involves a few straightforward steps, and the result is nothing short of delectable. You will enjoy the process of mixing, molding, and coating the candies in chocolate. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
4 cups powdered sugar
14 ounces sweetened shredded coconut
10-ounce jar maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
3 cups pecans, chopped
6 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
4 tablespoons shortening

Directions

Prep the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, vanilla extract, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and creamy. This is the base for your candy, and it should have a light and fluffy texture.
Add Sugar
Add the powdered sugar to the bowl. Mix well until everything is fully combined. This will create a thick and sweet mixture.
Fold in the Goodies
Next, fold in the shredded coconut, chopped cherries, and chopped pecans. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This is what gives the candy its delicious flavor and texture.
Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for 1 to 2 hours. Chilling helps it firm up, making it easier to shape into individual candies.
Prepare Baking Sheets
While the mixture is chilling, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the candies from sticking and make for easy cleanup.
Shape the Candy
Once the mixture is firm, use a 1½ tablespoon scoop or a melon baller to shape the mixture into balls. Place these on the prepared baking sheets.
Chill Again
After shaping the balls, refrigerate them again until they are firm.
Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the mixture is melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.
Dip the Balls
Using a fork, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate. Let the excess chocolate drip off, and then place the candy back on the parchment-lined tray.
Set and Store
Repeat the dipping process for all the candies. Once you’ve coated them all, refrigerate the candies until the chocolate sets completely before serving or storing.

Nutritional benefits

Martha Washington Candy may be rich, but it does include some beneficial ingredients. The pecans provide healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients like vitamin E. Coconut offers dietary fiber and natural sweetness, while cherries add a burst of flavor and some antioxidants. Even though these candies are meant as a treat, they carry a hint of nutrition thanks to these wholesome ingredients. Enjoying them in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.

What to Serve With Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy pairs wonderfully with various beverages. For a festive treat, serve them with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced apple cider. They also go well with a cup of coffee or tea, offering a nice contrast between the sweetness of the candy and the warmth of the drink. You could even present these candies on a dessert platter alongside other nostalgic treats, making them a hit at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This

You’ll love Martha Washington Candy for its rich flavor and delightful texture. The combination of creamy, sweet filling with the crunchy nuts and chocolate coating creates a delicious experience with every bite. They are perfect for sharing during holidays, parties, or simply enjoying with family while reminiscing about traditions. Plus, making them at home lets you add your own twist, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

How to store Martha Washington Candy

Storing Martha Washington Candy is easy! After the chocolate has set, you can store the candies in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent the chocolate from melting. These candies can last for up to two weeks when stored properly. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the candies. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to keep out moisture and prevent freezer burn.

Tips and mistakes to avoid

Soft Butter: Ensure the butter is softened, not melted. This helps achieve the right consistency when mixing.
Avoid Over Mixing: Do not over mix the powdered sugar. It should just be combined without being overly beaten to keep the mixture fluffy.
Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling stage! It makes a significant difference in the texture and structure of the candies.
Tempering Chocolate: Make sure not to overheat the chocolate, as this can cause it to seize. Stir and check frequently while melting.

Variation

You can customize Martha Washington Candy by adding different ingredients or flavors. For instance, consider using almond extract instead of vanilla for a lovely twist. You could also add various nuts such as walnuts or even switch the chocolate to white chocolate for a different taste. Experimenting with flavors can lead to new family favorites!

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of nuts?
Yes! While pecans are traditional, you can use almonds, walnuts, or even macadamia nuts if you prefer.

2. Can I make these candies ahead of time?
Absolutely! Martha Washington Candies can be made a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve them.

3. Is it necessary to use shortening with the chocolate?
Using shortening helps make the chocolate thinner for easier dipping, giving the candies a smoother finish. However, you can omit it if you prefer a thicker chocolate coating.

Enjoy the sweet, nostalgic flavors of Martha Washington Candy, and share them with your loved ones. The process of making these treats is just as fun as eating them!