Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy is an easy-to-make old-fashioned treat that captures the essence of the holidays. With its delightful combination of coconut, pecans, and cherries, this candy not only makes a stunning addition to your cookie tray but also serves as a perfect gift for family and friends. Whether for Christmas or any festive occasion, Martha Washington Candy stands out with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Martha Washington Candy

This candy is a beloved classic for many reasons.

• Easy to Prepare: With a simple recipe, you can whip up these candies without any complicated steps.
• Delicious Flavor: The mix of coconut, cherries, and chocolate creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love.
• Versatile Gift Option: Perfect for holiday gifts, this candy can be beautifully packaged or presented on a dessert platter.
• No-Bake Delight: This recipe requires no baking, making it ideal for those who prefer fuss-free desserts.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its appealing look and taste, it’s sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Martha Washington Candy, gather your tools for a seamless experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Dipping tools: These help you dip the balls into chocolate smoothly without getting your hands messy.

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 Coating

• 16 ounces candy coating

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How to Make Martha Washington Candy

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

Chop cherries into small pieces and place them on a paper towel. This allows excess liquid to be absorbed. Blot dry using additional paper towels.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large 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. A colder filling helps the chocolate set faster when dipped.

Step 4: Form the Balls

After chilling, form the mixture into balls about the size of a walnut or roughly 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls back in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to firm up.

Step 5: Prepare for Dipping

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt candy melts according to package directions until smooth and ready for dipping.

Step 6: Dip in Chocolate

Carefully dip each ball into the melted chocolate using dipping tools if available. Tap off any excess chocolate before placing them on the lined baking sheet. Be sure to remove as much chocolate as possible to avoid pooling at the bottom of each piece.

Step 7: Repeat Dipping Process

Continue dipping until all balls are covered in chocolate. Allow them to set properly on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 8: Store Your Treats

Once set, store your Martha Washington Candies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Enjoy your delicious homemade treats!

How to Serve Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that can be served in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a sweet snack at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the candies on a decorative platter alongside other desserts for an impressive display.
• Pair with cookies and brownies for a diverse dessert selection that appeals to everyone.

As Holiday Gifts

• Package Martha Washington Candy in festive boxes or tins to share with friends and family.
• Add a personal touch by including a handwritten recipe card for sharing this delicious treat.

With Coffee or Tea

• Serve these candies alongside your favorite coffee or tea for an indulgent afternoon treat.
• The sweetness of the candy complements the bitterness of coffee beautifully.

At Parties and Gatherings

• Offer Martha Washington Candy at celebrations and parties as a unique dessert option.
• These candies are great conversation starters and bring a nostalgic touch to any event.

How to Perfect Martha Washington Candy

Creating the perfect Martha Washington Candy involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your candy turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure that your cherries and coconut are fresh for the best flavor.
• Chill adequately: Refrigerating the mixture helps the chocolate set faster, preventing pooling.
• Roll evenly: Make sure all balls are uniform in size for consistent coating and presentation.
• Dip carefully: Use proper dipping tools to avoid excess chocolate on the candies.
• Store properly: Keep your candies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

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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 to consider.

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies: A classic cookie that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the candy.
2. Pecan Pie: This nutty dessert enhances the pecan flavor in your candies while adding variety.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance out the sweetness of the candy.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a creamy contrast to the chewy texture of the candy.
5. Brownies: Fudgy brownies add another layer of chocolatey goodness alongside the candy.
6. Ice Cream: Pairing with vanilla or coconut ice cream creates an indulgent dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Martha Washington Candy can be a delightful process, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Not drying cherries properly – Ensure you thoroughly blot the chopped maraschino cherries with paper towels. Excess moisture can affect the texture of your candy.
• Skipping refrigeration – Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the mixture for at least two hours helps it hold its shape when dipped in chocolate.
• Overheating the candy coating – Be careful with melting the candy coating. Overheating can cause it to seize up. Follow package instructions closely.
• Not tapping off excess chocolate – After dipping, remember to tap off any extra chocolate. This prevents pooling at the bottom of your candies, which can lead to an uneven look.
• Improper storage – Store your candies in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from becoming too hard or sticky.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.

Freezing Instructions

• Place candies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for long-term storage.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven – Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C). Place candies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals of 10-15 seconds, checking often to avoid melting too much.
• Stovetop – Use a double boiler on low heat, stirring gently until just warm.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Martha Washington Candy?

Martha Washington Candy is a delicious old-fashioned treat made from coconut, pecans, and cherries, all coated in chocolate. It’s perfect for gifting during the holidays.

Can I customize my Martha Washington Candy?

Absolutely! You can mix in different nuts or dried fruits according to your preference. Adding flavors like almond or orange zest can also give it a unique twist.

How do I know when my candy coating is ready?

The candy coating should be smooth and pourable but not too hot that it burns. Follow the instructions on the package for best results.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe yields about 60 pieces of Martha Washington Candy, making it great for holiday gatherings or as gifts.

Can I use unsweetened coconut instead?

You can use unsweetened coconut, but keep in mind that it will alter the overall sweetness of your Martha Washington Candy. Adjust sugar levels accordingly if needed.

Final Thoughts

Martha Washington Candy is not only a festive treat but also a versatile recipe that allows for endless customization. Whether you’re making them as gifts or simply for yourself, these candies are sure to impress everyone who tries them. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and ingredients!