Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that brings back memories of holiday celebrations and family gatherings. This easy-to-make old-fashioned candy features a delicious mix of coconut, pecans, and cherries, making it an ideal choice for gifting or showcasing on your festive dessert table. Whether you’re preparing for Christmas or any special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and appealing presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy offers a unique blend of taste and tradition.

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this candy in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of coconut, pecans, and cherries creates a mouthwatering treat that pleases everyone.
• Versatile Gift Option: Perfect for holidays or as homemade gifts, these candies are always appreciated by friends and family.
• Impressive Presentation: Their beautiful appearance makes them a standout addition to any cookie tray or dessert table.
• No-Bake Recipe: Enjoy the ease of creating delicious candies without turning on the oven.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools is essential for making Martha Washington Candy efficiently and effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Melting pot or microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier when setting the dipped candies.
• Melting pot or microwave-safe bowl: Ensures even melting of the candy coating for smooth dipping.

Ingredients

Gather these key ingredients to create your delicious Martha Washington Candy.

For the Candy 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 Cherries

Chop cherries into small pieces. Place them on a paper towel to absorb excess liquid. Blot dry with additional paper towels to ensure they’re not too wet.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except for the candy coating. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

Refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours. A colder filling helps the chocolate set faster when you dip them later.

Step 4: Form Balls

Once chilled, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about the size of walnuts (approximately 1 inch). Place the balls back in the refrigerator for another 20 minutes to firm up.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt candy melts according to package directions in a melting pot or microwave-safe bowl until smooth.

Step 6: Dip in Chocolate

Dip each ball into the melted chocolate using dipping tools. Tap off any excess chocolate before placing them back onto the lined baking sheet. Be sure to remove as much chocolate as possible to avoid pooling at the bottom.

Step 7: Repeat Dipping Process

Continue dipping each ball until all are coated in chocolate. Allow them to set completely at room temperature.

Step 8: Store Candies

Transfer your finished candies to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks, perfect for enjoying over time!

How to Serve Martha Washington Candy

Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking to impress your guests, here are some creative serving suggestions.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the candies on a decorative platter for a stunning display.
• Pair with other homemade sweets like cookies and brownies for variety.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Package the candies in festive boxes or tins.
• Add a personal touch with handwritten tags for gift-giving.

Holiday Cookie Tray

• Include Martha Washington Candy alongside traditional holiday cookies.
• This combination will add a unique flavor and texture to your cookie tray.

With Coffee or Tea

• Serve these candies with coffee or tea as a sweet accompaniment.
• The rich flavors of the candy complement hot beverages perfectly.

At Parties

• Offer as a bite-sized dessert at parties.
• Guests will love the sweet taste and lovely presentation.

As Party Favors

• Create small bags of candy for guests to take home.
• This thoughtful gesture will leave a lasting impression.

How to Perfect Martha Washington Candy

To ensure your Martha Washington Candy turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Make sure your coconut, cherries, and nuts are fresh for the best flavor.
• Chill well before dipping – A colder filling helps the chocolate coating set more quickly and evenly.
• Avoid excess moisture – Ensure cherries are well-drained; excess moisture can ruin the texture.
• Coat thoroughly – Make sure each ball is fully coated in chocolate for the best taste and appearance.
• Store properly – Keep candies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with flavors – Feel free to add different nuts or extracts to customize your candy!

Best Side Dishes for Martha Washington Candy

While Martha Washington Candy is delicious on its own, it pairs wonderfully with certain side dishes that enhance its sweetness. Here are some great options:

1. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can provide a savory balance to the sweetness of the candies.
2. Fruit Salad – Fresh fruit adds brightness and complements the rich flavors of the candy.
3. Spiced Nuts – Savory spiced nuts create an enjoyable contrast with sweet treats.
4. Chocolate Fondue – Dip fruits or marshmallows into chocolate fondue for an indulgent experience.
5. Ice Cream – Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert pairing.
6. Coffee Cake – The crumbly texture of coffee cake pairs nicely with the chewy candy.
7. Mini Pastries – Assorted mini pastries can enhance the dessert table’s appeal during gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Martha Washington Candy is straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold Ingredient Preparation: Skipping the step of drying the cherries can lead to a soggy mixture. Always blot the cherries dry with paper towels before mixing them in.
• Bold Incorrect Measurements: Not measuring the ingredients accurately may ruin the candy’s consistency. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Bold Insufficient Chilling Time: Rushing the chilling process can result in candies that don’t hold their shape when dipped. Allow the mixture to chill for at least two hours before forming balls.
• Bold Overheating Chocolate: Melting chocolate too quickly can cause it to seize up. Follow package instructions and melt slowly using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts.
• Bold Ignoring Storage Tips: Storing candies improperly can lead to spoilage or texture changes. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Martha Washington Candy in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
• Ensure there is no moisture in the container, as this could affect texture.

Freezing Instructions

• You can freeze Martha Washington Candy for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each candy individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• Label containers with dates for easy reference.

Reheating Instructions

• Bold Oven: Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C) and place candies on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until slightly warm.
• Bold Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds at a time, checking frequently to prevent melting.
• Bold Stovetop: Use a double boiler on low heat, stirring gently until warmed through; avoid overheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Martha Washington Candy?

Martha Washington Candy is a classic no-bake dessert made primarily from shredded coconut, pecans, and chopped maraschino cherries, all coated in chocolate.

How long does it take to make Martha Washington Candy?

The preparation time is about 15 minutes, but you should allow at least two hours for chilling before forming into balls and dipping in chocolate.

Can I customize Martha Washington Candy?

Absolutely! You can add nuts like almonds or walnuts or substitute different dried fruits instead of cherries for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

How should I store leftover Martha Washington Candy?

Keep any leftover candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?

While you can use unsweetened coconut, it will alter the flavor and sweetness of the candies. Adjust sugar accordingly if you choose this option.

Final Thoughts

Martha Washington Candy is not only delightful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its blend of textures and flavors makes it perfect for holiday gifting or as part of your dessert spread. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different nuts or fruits, allowing you to create your own signature version!