Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy is a delightful old-fashioned treat that combines the rich flavors of coconut, pecans, and cherries. Perfect for holiday gifting or as a stunning addition to your cookie tray, this easy candy recipe will impress your friends and family alike. With its no-bake nature, it’s an ideal choice for any occasion, bringing a touch of nostalgia and sweetness to the festivities.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible candies without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of coconut, pecans, and cherries creates a sweet and chewy texture that satisfies any sweet tooth.
• Perfect for Gifting: Pack these candies in decorative boxes for thoughtful homemade gifts that are sure to be appreciated during the holiday season.
• Impressive Presentation: These candies look stunning on a cookie platter, making them an attractive option for parties and gatherings.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them year-round or customize with different nuts or dried fruits based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth candy-making process. Having the right equipment will help you create perfect Martha Washington Candies every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Paper towels
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Candy dipping tools (optional)
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all ingredients evenly without spills.
• Parchment paper: It prevents sticking, allowing for easy removal of the chocolate-coated candies once set.
• Candy dipping tools: These make it easier to dip each ball into chocolate without making a mess.

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

How to Make Martha Washington Candy

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

Chop cherries into small pieces and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess liquid. Blot dry with additional paper towels to ensure they don’t make the mixture too wet.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Combine all ingredients except for candy coating in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well blended.

Step 3: Chill Mixture

Refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours. A colder filling helps the chocolate set up quickly.

Step 4: Form Balls

Once chilled, form the mixture into balls about the size of a walnut or roughly 1 inch in diameter. Place shaped balls back in the refrigerator for another 20 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt candy melts according to package directions until smooth.

Step 6: Dip Candies

Dip each ball into the melted chocolate using dipping tools if available. Tap off excess chocolate; this prevents pooling at the bottom of each candy.

Step 7: Set Chocolates

Place dipped candies on the lined baking sheet to allow them to set completely. Repeat until all balls are covered in chocolate.

Step 8: Store Properly

Store your Martha Washington Candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Enjoy sharing these treats with loved ones!

How to Serve Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy these delightful treats.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange the candies on a decorative platter to create an eye-catching display for parties.
• Use colorful garnishes like mint leaves or edible flowers to enhance presentation.

As Holiday Gifts

• Pack Martha Washington Candies in decorative boxes or tins for thoughtful homemade gifts.
• Attach a handwritten note or recipe card for a personal touch.

With Coffee or Tea

• Serve these candies alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• The rich flavors complement the beverages perfectly, enhancing the overall experience.

As Party Favors

• Place individual candies in small cellophane bags tied with ribbons as party favors.
• These make great additions to weddings, birthdays, and holiday gatherings.

On Dessert Tables

• Include Martha Washington Candy on dessert tables at celebrations for variety.
• Pair them with other sweets like cookies and brownies for an indulgent spread.

Save it!

How to Perfect Martha Washington Candy

To achieve the best results with your Martha Washington Candy, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients, especially cherries and coconut, are fresh for optimal flavor.
• Chill the mixture well: A longer chilling time helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.
• Tap off excess chocolate: After dipping in chocolate, gently tap the candy to remove excess coating and prevent pooling.
• Store properly: Keep candies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and texture.
• Experiment with toppings: Consider adding crushed nuts or sprinkles on top of the chocolate coating for added crunch and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy pairs well with various side dishes that can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some ideal options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light contrast to the rich flavors of the candy.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses adds savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the candies.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Dip fruits or marshmallows in chocolate fondue for a fun interactive dessert experience.
4. Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake complements the candy’s sweetness while offering a comforting texture.
5. Ice Cream: Serve vanilla or coconut ice cream alongside for a creamy pairing that enhances flavor profiles.
6. Nut Mix: A bowl of assorted nuts adds crunch and saltiness, creating a pleasing balance when enjoyed together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Martha Washington Candy can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your candies turn out perfectly.

• Using wet cherries: If the maraschino cherries are not properly dried, they can make the candy mixture too wet. Always blot them with paper towels before adding them in.
• Skipping refrigeration: Failing to refrigerate the mixture long enough can lead to difficulty in forming the balls. Ensure you chill the mixture for at least two hours.
• Overheating chocolate coating: Melting the candy coating at too high a temperature can cause it to seize. Always follow package directions and melt slowly.
• Not properly tapping off excess chocolate: If you don’t tap off excess chocolate after dipping, it will pool at the bottom of your candies. Be sure to give a gentle tap before placing them on parchment paper.
• Storing improperly: If you store your candies in an unsealed container, they can dry out. Use an airtight container for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Martha Washington Candy in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Martha Washington Candy

• Wrap individual candies tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Martha Washington Candy

• Oven: Preheat the oven to low heat (around 200°F). Place candies on a baking sheet and warm for a few minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Place a few candies on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid melting completely.
• Stovetop: Use a double boiler on low heat, stirring gently until softened but not melted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Martha Washington Candy.

What is Martha Washington Candy?

Martha Washington Candy is a classic no-bake dessert made with coconut, pecans, and cherries, all coated in chocolate. It’s perfect for holiday gifting!

Can I customize Martha Washington Candy?

Yes! You can customize this candy by adding different nuts or using dark chocolate instead of candy coating. Get creative with flavors!

How should I store leftover Martha Washington Candy?

Store leftover candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Is there a gluten-free version of Martha Washington Candy?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not include any gluten-containing ingredients. Always check labels to ensure all components are gluten-free.

Can I use unsweetened coconut instead?

Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut if you prefer less sweetness. It will change the overall flavor slightly but works well in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that combines sweet coconut, crunchy pecans, and tender cherries all wrapped in luscious chocolate. This easy candy recipe is perfect for holiday gifting or enjoying at gatherings. Don’t hesitate to try customizing it with different nuts or flavors – make it your own!