Martha Washington Candy
Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that brings nostalgia and sweetness to any occasion. This easy-to-make old-fashioned candy combines the rich flavors of coconut, pecans, and cherries, making it perfect for holiday gift-giving or as a stunning addition to your dessert table. With its beautiful presentation and mouthwatering taste, this candy is sure to impress family and friends alike!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe can be made in just 15 minutes of active time, allowing you to whip up a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful chocolate-covered balls look elegant on any cookie tray, making them perfect for celebrations or gifting.
- Versatile Ingredients: Made with ingredients like coconut and pecans, you can easily customize the flavors to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Deliciously Decadent: Each bite offers a rich combination of textures and flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Great for Gifting: Packaged nicely, these candies make thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holidays.
Tools and Preparation
To make Martha Washington Candy successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your process and ensure excellent results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Dipping tools (optional)
- Refrigerator
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
- Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents the candies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Dipping tools: These can help you dip the candy balls into chocolate smoothly while keeping your hands clean.
Ingredients
This classic Martha Washington Candy recipe features simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.
For the Base Mixture
- 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 the Cherries
Chop cherries into small pieces and place them on a paper towel so the liquid can be absorbed. Blot dry with additional paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except for the candy coating. Mix well until fully combined.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
Refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours. The colder the filling is, the quicker the chocolate will set up later.
Step 4: Form Into Balls
Once chilled, form the mixture into balls about the size of a walnut or around 1 inch in diameter. Refrigerate these balls for an additional 20 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare for Dipping
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the candy melts according to package directions until smooth.
Step 6: Dip in Chocolate
Using dipping tools if available, dip each ball into melted chocolate. Tap off any excess chocolate before placing them back on the lined baking sheet. Make sure not to leave too much chocolate at the bottom, as it may require trimming later.
Step 7: Repeat Dipping Process
Continue dipping each ball until all are covered in chocolate. Allow them to set completely on the baking sheet.
Step 8: Store Candies
Once set, store your Martha Washington Candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Enjoy these treats as festive delights or share them as gifts!
How to Serve Martha Washington Candy
Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to impress your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance the experience of this delicious candy.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Include Martha Washington Candy on a dessert platter alongside other sweets, such as cookies and brownies, for a colorful and inviting display.
- Pair with fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
Gift Giving
- Package Martha Washington Candy in decorative boxes or jars to create thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family during the holidays.
- Add a personalized note or tag to make the gift even more special.
With Coffee or Tea
- Serve Martha Washington Candy with coffee or tea during afternoon gatherings. The rich flavors complement warm beverages perfectly.
- Offer different types of tea, such as Earl Grey or chamomile, to cater to various tastes.
On a Cookie Tray
- Position Martha Washington Candy prominently on your cookie tray at holiday parties. Its unique appearance will catch everyone’s eye.
- Combine with traditional holiday cookies for an appealing assortment.
As Party Favors
- Create small bags of Martha Washington Candy as party favors for guests to take home after celebrations, ensuring they remember your event.
- Consider wrapping them in cellophane and tying with festive ribbons for an attractive look.
How to Perfect Martha Washington Candy
To ensure your Martha Washington Candy turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your coconut and cherries are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Chill thoroughly: Refrigerate the mixture long enough before forming balls; this helps maintain shape when dipping in chocolate.
- Dip quickly: When coating the balls, dip quickly in melted chocolate to prevent them from getting too soft.
- Keep them cool: Store candies in a cool place after dipping to help set the chocolate faster and maintain firmness.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding sprinkles or crushed nuts on top of the chocolate coating before it sets for added flair.
- Make ahead: These candies can be prepared days in advance, making them perfect for holiday planning.
Best Side Dishes for Martha Washington Candy
While Martha Washington Candy is delightful on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie and gouda pairs well with the sweetness of the candy.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the candy.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add another layer of chocolatey goodness that enhances the overall dessert table theme.
- Mini Cupcakes: Small cupcakes in various flavors provide variety and are easy to enjoy alongside Martha Washington Candy.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream offers a creamy contrast that complements the texture of the candy beautifully.
- Coffee Cake: Serve slices of coffee cake alongside your candies; its slight sweetness pairs wonderfully with richer flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Martha Washington Candy is a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some tips to ensure your candy turns out perfectly.
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Using Too Much Liquid: Excess liquid from the cherries can make the mixture too wet. Always drain and blot the cherries thoroughly before mixing them in.
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Skipping Refrigeration: Not refrigerating the mixture may lead to soft candies that won’t hold their shape. Be sure to chill it for at least two hours before forming balls.
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Not Tapping Off Excess Chocolate: Leaving too much chocolate on your candies can create unsightly pools. Always tap off excess chocolate after dipping.
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Overheating the Candy Coating: If you melt the candy coating too quickly, it may seize up or become difficult to work with. Follow package instructions for melting carefully.
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Storing in Non-Airtight Containers: Storing candies in containers that aren’t airtight can lead to drying out. Use airtight containers to keep your Martha Washington Candy fresh.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- They will last for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
Freezing Martha Washington Candy
- For longer storage, freeze candies in a single layer before transferring them to an airtight container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.
Reheating Martha Washington Candy
- Oven: Preheat your oven to a low temperature (around 200°F) and place candies on a baking sheet for a few minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for short intervals (10-15 seconds) until just softened.
- Stovetop: Place candies in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until they soften slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Martha Washington Candy that may help clarify any doubts you have!
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 gatherings.
Can I customize Martha Washington Candy?
Yes! You can add different nuts or dried fruits according to your taste preferences. Experimenting with flavors adds a personal touch!
How do I make Martha Washington Candy vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use vegan chocolate coating for dipping.
How should I store leftover Martha Washington Candy?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for up to two weeks while keeping them fresh.
Final Thoughts
Martha Washington Candy is not only easy to make but also offers great versatility. You can customize it with various nuts and flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this delightful recipe today and impress your friends and family with homemade treats!
Martha Washington Candy
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 30 servings 1x
Description
Martha Washington Candy is a nostalgic treat that captures the essence of festive gatherings and sweet indulgence. This delightful no-bake candy combines the rich, tropical flavors of coconut, crunchy pecans, and sweet maraschino cherries, all enveloped in a smooth chocolate coating. Perfect for holiday gifting or as a stunning centerpiece on your dessert table, these candies are not only easy to make but also a showstopper that will impress family and friends alike. With just 15 minutes of active preparation time, you can whip up this classic recipe and enjoy its decadent flavor during any celebration.
Ingredients
- 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
- 16 ounces candy coating
Instructions
- Prepare the cherries by chopping them into small pieces and blotting them dry with paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, chopped cherries, and chopped pecans. Mix until well combined.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours to firm up.
- Once chilled, form the mixture into balls about the size of walnuts (approximately 1 inch in diameter) and refrigerate again for 20 minutes.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the candy coating according to package instructions until smooth.
- Dip each ball into the melted chocolate using dipping tools if available. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back on the lined baking sheet.
- Let the candies set completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
