Martha Washington Candy Delight Recipe

If you’re searching for a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing sweet treat, look no further than Martha Washington Candy Delight. This irresistible dessert is a classic confection, beloved for its creamy coconut-pecan filling studded with cherries and wrapped in a decadent coat of chocolate. With every bite, you get chewy textures, bursts of cherry, and that all-important rich chocolate finish. Whether you’re preparing it for holidays, a cookie exchange, or just to satisfy a chocolate craving, Martha Washington Candy Delight has a way of making everyone feel a little more joyful (and a tad more spoiled).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Putting together Martha Washington Candy Delight couldn’t be simpler, but the heart of this treat lies in each classic ingredient. From nutty pecans to luscious maraschino cherries, every component brings flavor, richness, or the perfect chewiness. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Unsalted butter (1½ sticks, melted): Adds richness, moisture, and helps bind the filling together for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Powdered sugar (4 cups): Sweetens the filling and ensures a super smooth, creamy consistency.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors, giving warmth and a comforting aroma to every bite.
• Shredded coconut, sweetened (3 cups): Brings signature coconut chew and sweetness, making the centers delightfully tropical.
• Sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces, 1 can): The secret to a luscious, sticky filling that holds everything together.
• Maraschino cherries (10 ounces, drained and chopped): Adds tart, juicy pops of color and a touch of fun to each bite.
• Pecans (1½ cups, chopped): Introduces a lovely crunch and a buttery, nutty depth to the mix.
• Chocolate melting wafers (16 ounces): Creates a glossy, dreamy chocolate shell that envelops every candy ball.

How to Make Martha Washington Candy Delight

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Base

In a large mixing bowl, blend the melted butter with the powdered sugar until the mixture is completely smooth. This creamy base is the first layer of sweetness that gives Martha Washington Candy Delight its signature soft center.

Step 2: Mix in the Coconut and Condensed Milk

Pour in your shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk, stirring until everything is evenly combined. The blend will become thick, sticky, and irresistibly fragrant — it’s the structure and soul of these classic candies.

Step 3: Add the Cherries and Pecans

Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and pecans. The cherries infuse pops of color and fruity tartness, while the pecans supply a delightful crunch. Don’t overmix; you want every bite of Martha Washington Candy Delight to have distinct, tasty layers.

Step 4: Shape and Chill

Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls, placing each on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This is when the candy really begins to look special! Pop them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until they’re firm enough to handle.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

While the centers chill, melt your chocolate wafers according to package directions. Whether you use a microwave or a double boiler, keep stirring until the chocolate is smooth, shiny, and ready for dipping.

Step 6: Dip and Finish

Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully coat each chilled ball in the melted chocolate, letting any extra drip off. Return them to the baking sheet, spacing them out, and refrigerate again for another 10 to 15 minutes so the chocolate shell fully sets. Now your Martha Washington Candy Delight is ready to steal the show!

How to Serve Martha Washington Candy Delight

Garnishes

To give your Martha Washington Candy Delight some extra flair, consider drizzling the tops with a thin line of white chocolate, a sprinkle of shredded coconut, or a single pecan half. Each garnish not only looks impressive but offers a hint at the delicious flavors inside.

Side Dishes

While these candies are definitely the star, they pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of sweet dessert wine, or a platter of fresh berries. Adding Martha Washington Candy Delight to a spread of cookies or bite-sized desserts creates a truly festive treat table.

Creative Ways to Present

Pack them in decorative tins or candy boxes lined with pretty paper cups for gift-giving during the holidays, or stack them pyramid-style on a cake stand for a striking party centerpiece. You can even skewer them on lollipop sticks for a clever, kid-friendly twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Martha Washington Candy Delight stores beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Keep the candies separated by parchment to prevent sticking and preserve that lovely chocolate coating.

Freezing

If you want to make these candies well in advance, you’re in luck! They freeze wonderfully. After the chocolate has set, layer the candies in a freezer-safe container with parchment between each layer. They’ll stay fresh-tasting for up to three months — simply thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Martha Washington Candy Delight; they’re best enjoyed straight from the fridge or at room temperature. If you like a slightly melty chocolate exterior, let them sit out a few minutes before digging in.

FAQs

Can I substitute walnuts for pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even a nut-free seed blend work well in Martha Washington Candy Delight. Just be sure to chop them finely so every bite gets a little crunch.

How long do these candies stay fresh?

When stored properly in the fridge, Martha Washington Candy Delight can stay fresh for up to two weeks. In the freezer, they last up to three months without sacrificing flavor or texture.

What’s the best way to dip the candies in chocolate?

Use a fork, dipping tool, or a toothpick to lower the chilled centers into the melted chocolate. Let the excess drip off before placing each piece on your lined tray for the neatest finish.

Can I make Martha Washington Candy Delight without coconut?

While coconut is a classic part of this recipe, you can substitute it with extra chopped nuts, crushed graham crackers, or even cookie crumbs. The flavor and texture will be different but still delicious!

Do I need to use melting wafers, or will chocolate chips work?

Melting wafers provide the shiniest, smoothest coating. However, good-quality chocolate chips plus a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening also work in a pinch, resulting in a slightly softer shell.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re reviving a treasured family recipe or trying something new, Martha Washington Candy Delight brings together the best flavors of old-fashioned treats. It’s incredibly fun to make, even more delightful to share, and certain to become a favorite for every festive occasion or sweet tooth emergency. Give it a try — your kitchen (and everyone you share it with) will thank you!

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