Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that brings nostalgia to any gathering. Easy to make and bursting with flavors, this old-fashioned candy is perfect for holiday celebrations or as a sweet gift. With its combination of coconut, pecans, and cherries, it adds a special touch to cookie trays and festive occasions. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or simply craving something sweet, Martha Washington Candy is sure to impress your friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Martha Washington Candy
This candy is not only delicious but also versatile!
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and minimal steps, you’ll have this candy ready in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of coconut, pecans, and cherries creates a rich flavor that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for various occasions like holidays, parties, or as homemade gifts.
- Impressive Presentation: These candies look beautiful on a dessert tray, adding elegance to any event.
- Long Shelf Life: Store them in an airtight container for up to two weeks without losing freshness!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Dipping tools (optional)
- Refrigerator
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl helps you combine all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy when placing candies on the baking sheet.
- Dipping tools: Great for dipping the balls into chocolate without making a mess.
Ingredients
To create these delightful Martha Washington Candies, you will need the following ingredients:
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 the Coating
- 16 ounces candy coating
How to Make Martha Washington Candy
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Chop the maraschino cherries into small pieces. Place them on a paper towel to absorb excess liquid. Blot dry with additional paper towels to remove moisture.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except for the candy coating. Stir until well mixed.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
Refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours. This helps it firm up so that it’s easier to shape.
Step 4: Shape Into Balls
Form the mixture into balls about the size of walnuts (approximately 1 inch). Place these balls back into the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to set.
Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the candy coating according to package instructions until smooth.
Step 6: Dip the Balls
Using dipping tools or forks, dip each ball into the melted chocolate. Tap off any excess chocolate before placing it on the lined baking sheet. Remove as much chocolate as possible; otherwise, it may pool at the bottom.
Step 7: Repeat Dipping Process
Continue this process until all balls are covered in chocolate.
Step 8: Store Your Candies
Once set, store your Martha Washington Candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Enjoy!
How to Serve Martha Washington Candy
Martha Washington Candy is not just a treat; it’s a delightful addition to any festive gathering. This old-fashioned candy can be served in various ways, making it a versatile choice for the holidays.
On a Decorative Cookie Tray
- Arrange the candies on a colorful platter and mix them with other festive treats like cookies and chocolates for an eye-catching display.
As Holiday Gifts
- Package individual candies in clear bags tied with ribbons. This makes for a thoughtful and homemade gift that friends and family will love.
With Coffee or Tea
- Serve Martha Washington Candy alongside warm beverages. The sweetness of the candy complements the rich flavors of coffee or tea perfectly.
At Parties
- Use decorative toothpicks to serve these candies at parties. They are bite-sized, making them easy for guests to enjoy while mingling.
As Dessert Bites
- Present the candies in small paper cups as part of a dessert buffet. This allows guests to pick their favorites and creates a fun tasting experience.
How to Perfect Martha Washington Candy
To achieve the best results with your Martha Washington Candy, consider these helpful tips.
- Chill Ingredients: Make sure your mixture is cool before dipping it in chocolate. This helps the chocolate set faster and prevents melting.
- Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality candy coating or chocolate for better flavor and texture. It makes a significant difference in taste.
- Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision is key when making candy. Use measuring cups and spoons for accurate quantities to ensure consistency.
- Don’t Rush the Cooling Process: Allow your candies to chill properly before dipping. This step helps maintain their shape during coating.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the filling! Adding different nuts or dried fruits can create new flavor profiles that enhance the original recipe.
Best Side Dishes for Martha Washington Candy
While Martha Washington Candy is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary dishes can elevate your dessert spread. Here are some great options:
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses balances out the sweetness of the candy, offering a savory contrast that enhances both flavors.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds brightness and acidity, which works wonderfully with the rich coconut and chocolate of the candies.
- Mini Cupcakes: These bite-sized treats provide variety without overwhelming guests. Choose light flavors like vanilla or lemon to contrast with the rich candy.
- Chocolate Fondue: Providing a chocolate fountain lets guests dip fruits or pretzels, creating an interactive dessert experience alongside your Martha Washington Candy.
- Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake offers a wonderful balance to sweet treats, perfect for serving after dinner or during brunch.
- Ice Cream Sundaes: Set up an ice cream bar where guests can add Martha Washington Candy as a topping, creating delectable sundae combinations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Martha Washington Candy can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too vigorously can lead to a tough texture. Stir gently until everything is combined.
- Not draining cherries properly: If maraschino cherries are not adequately drained, excess moisture may ruin the consistency. Always blot them dry with paper towels.
- Skipping refrigeration: Failing to chill the mixture before forming balls can make shaping difficult. Always refrigerate for at least two hours.
- Using the wrong chocolate coating: Not all chocolate coatings set well. Choose high-quality candy melts or chocolate specifically for dipping.
- Neglecting to tap off excess chocolate: Leaving too much chocolate on the balls may cause pooling at the bottom. Tap gently on the side of the bowl after dipping.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Martha Washington Candy in an airtight container.
- Keep it at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain freshness.
Freezing Instructions
- Place candies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
- Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place candies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes to soften slightly.
- Microwave: Heat candies in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until slightly warm. Be careful not to melt them completely.
- Stovetop: Use a double boiler method, placing candies in a heat-safe bowl over simmering water until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Martha Washington Candy?
Martha Washington Candy is a no-bake sweet treat made with coconut, pecans, and cherries, coated in chocolate. It’s perfect for holiday gifting and parties.
Can I customize Martha Washington Candy?
Yes! You can add different nuts or swap out cherries for other dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for unique flavors.
How do I store Martha Washington Candy?
Store your candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or freeze them for longer shelf life.
Can I use dark chocolate coating instead of candy melts?
Absolutely! You can use any type of chocolate coating you prefer, just ensure it’s suitable for dipping and setting properly.
Final Thoughts
Martha Washington Candy is not only easy to make but also versatile enough to cater to various taste preferences. With its delightful combination of coconut, pecans, and cherries, this candy is sure to impress during holidays or special occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!
Martha Washington Candy
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 30 pieces 1x
Description
Martha Washington Candy is a delightful no-bake treat that combines the sweet flavors of coconut, rich pecans, and juicy cherries, all enveloped in a smooth chocolate coating. This nostalgic candy is perfect for holiday gatherings, making it an ideal addition to cookie trays or as a thoughtful homemade gift. With its simple preparation and impressive presentation, Martha Washington Candy is sure to delight your friends and family. Whether you’re celebrating a festive occasion or satisfying a sweet craving, this candy brings joy to every bite.
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 until well mixed.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours to firm up.
- Form the chilled mixture into walnut-sized balls and place back in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the candy coating according to package instructions.
- Dip each ball into the melted chocolate using dipping tools or forks, tapping off excess chocolate before placing them on the parchment-lined sheet.
- Allow the chocolates to set before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (25g)
- Calories: 105
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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