Martha Washington Candy Recipe

If you’re longing for an old-fashioned candy that tastes like holiday tradition in every bite, Martha Washington Candy is your new must-make recipe. This charming confection is brimming with sweet coconut, chewy cherries, and crunchy pecans, all smothered in a silky chocolate coating – and when you add homemade buttery caramels to the mix, each piece feels extra-special. Whether you want to impress at the cookie exchange, delight guests with nostalgia, or simply treat yourself to something decadently delicious, Martha Washington Candy is perfect for sharing (or keeping as your own treasured secret stash).

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Martha Washington Candy lies in its humble yet irresistible combination of ingredients. Each addition brings an essential layer of flavor, texture, or color, making every bite a perfect harmony of sweet, creamy, fruity, and crunchy.

• Unsalted Butter (1½ sticks): Gives the creamy richness needed for the candy base and ensures everything holds together beautifully.
• Powdered Sugar (4 cups): Sweetens the filling to perfection and offers that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Deepens the overall flavor and adds that extra note of homemade warmth.
• Shredded Sweetened Coconut (3 cups): Provides chewy texture and a tropical sweetness that shines in every bite.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 oz): Binds all ingredients together with creamy, luscious sweetness.
• Maraschino Cherries (10 oz): Brings pops of color and bursts of bright, fruity flavor—make sure to drain and chop before adding.
• Chopped Pecans (1½ cups): Lend a buttery crunch and nutty complexity to the candy.
• Chocolate Melting Wafers (16 oz): Create the glossy, irresistible shell that encases each candy; choose a good-quality chocolate for the best finish.
• Granulated White Sugar (1½ cups, for Caramels): Caramelizes to form the sweet, chewy backbone of your homemade caramels.
• Honey (½ cup, for Caramels): Adds floral notes and extra chewiness that make your caramels stand out.
• Salted Butter (6 tbsp, for Caramels): Elevates the caramel with rich, salty balance.
• Salt (¼ tsp, for Caramels): Enhances the flavors of the caramel so they’re never one-note.
• Heavy Cream (¾ cup, for Caramels): Makes the caramels smooth and luxuriously soft.

How to Make Martha Washington Candy

Step 1: Prepare the Homemade Caramels

To create that signature Martha Washington Candy magic, start by making the caramel. In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, honey, salted butter, and salt over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while continuously stirring. Let this mixture bubble gently, stirring frequently, until it reaches a rich golden color and the temperature registers about 245°F on a candy thermometer (firm-ball stage). Pour into a parchment-lined pan, let cool completely, then cut into small cubes for an added layer of decadence inside each candy ball.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract. Next, fold in the sweetened shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, chopped maraschino cherries, and chopped pecans. Mix everything thoroughly so that every bite gets a cheerful mix of chewy, nutty, and fruity. If you’ve made homemade caramels, gently fold the caramel cubes into the mixture as well—trust me, it’s worth it!

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

Scoop the filling out onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in heaping tablespoonfuls, shaping each into a ball. Pop the tray into the refrigerator for at least one hour (or the freezer for 25–30 minutes if you’re eager). This step is crucial; it helps your Martha Washington Candy hold its shape during the chocolate-dipping stage and makes handling much easier.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

Set up a double boiler or use your microwave in short bursts to gently melt the chocolate wafers until smooth and glossy. Stir often and avoid any contact with water, which can cause your chocolate to seize. A silky, pourable chocolate is key for perfect coating on each candy.

Step 5: Dip and Finish the Candy

Now for the fun part: use a fork or candy dipping tool to lower each chilled candy ball into the melted chocolate, turning to coat thoroughly. Lift out, letting excess chocolate drip away, and place on a parchment-lined tray. If you like, drizzle extra chocolate on top or sprinkle with a bit of shredded coconut or a pecan half for some visual flair. Let the chocolate set at room temperature, or speed things up by popping the tray back in the fridge.

How to Serve Martha Washington Candy

Garnishes

Take your Martha Washington Candy to the next level by garnishing with a light dusting of extra coconut, a whole cherry, or a glossy pecan half on top of each piece. These little touches not only make the candies look irresistible but also give a clue to the delicious flavors hiding inside.

Side Dishes

While these candies are stars on their own, they pair wonderfully with a hot mug of coffee or tea. Serve alongside a cheese board for an unexpected sweet finish, or nestle a few into a dish of vanilla ice cream to turn dessert into a true showstopper.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond just placing them on a plate! Martha Washington Candy stacks up beautifully in decorative tins, glass jars, or cellophane bags tied with ribbons for gifting. For a party, arrange them in mini cupcake liners on a pretty platter, or mix and match with other homemade candies and cookies for an impressive dessert spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Martha Washington Candy fresh and delicious by storing the candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If your kitchen runs warm, refrigerate to prevent the chocolate from softening; just let candies sit at room temperature a few minutes before serving so the centers are perfectly creamy.

Freezing

For ultimate make-ahead convenience, you can freeze Martha Washington Candy! Arrange in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll be good for up to two months. To serve, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

While Martha Washington Candy doesn’t need reheating (in fact, it’s best served at room temperature), if frozen, allow the candies to thaw completely before eating for the best flavor and texture. If you prefer them slightly gooey, leave them out at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts or fruit for the filling?

Absolutely! While pecans and maraschino cherries are classic to Martha Washington Candy, feel free to experiment with walnuts, almonds, dried cranberries, or even diced dried apricots for your own signature spin.

Is it essential to make homemade caramels, or can I use store-bought?

If you’re pressed for time, store-bought caramels work well in a pinch. However, homemade caramels add an unbeatable freshness and melt-in-your-mouth texture that truly set Martha Washington Candy apart.

How long do these candies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Martha Washington Candy stays fresh for about a week at room temperature or up to two weeks when refrigerated.

Can I double the recipe for gifting or parties?

Definitely! This recipe scales up beautifully. Just ensure your mixing bowl is big enough to handle all those delicious ingredients, and set aside extra time to dip and decorate the larger batch.

Why is my chocolate coating not smooth or shiny?

If your chocolate seizes or loses its shine, make sure no water touches the chocolate while melting and try tempering the chocolate for extra gloss. High-quality melting wafers are usually foolproof and result in a beautifully smooth shell.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Martha Washington Candy highly enough if you’re searching for a treat that’s as nostalgic as it is scrumptious. Share them at your next gathering, give them as thoughtful gifts, or stash a few for your personal sweet cravings—you won’t regret mastering this beloved classic!

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