Martha Washington Candy Delight Recipe

If you’re craving a treat that feels like pure nostalgia wrapped in a chocolate hug, Martha Washington Candy Delight is your answer. This delightful candy features a creamy, dreamy filling packed with sweetened coconut, crunchy pecans, and jewel-toned maraschino cherries. Each bite is encased in smooth chocolate and then drizzled with a decadent swirl of white chocolate, making it perfect for gifting or sharing at any gathering. Simple to prepare but incredibly impressive, Martha Washington Candy Delight brings together timeless flavors with a homemade touch you’ll want to share every holiday season—or just for fun!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Martha Washington Candy Delight is in its simplicity—every ingredient shines and serves a purpose. Not only do these ingredients build a beautiful flavor profile, but they also guarantee a texture that’s chewy, crunchy, and absolutely irresistible.

• Butter: Use room temperature unsalted butter for a rich, creamy base that combines smoothly with the other ingredients.
• Confectioners Sugar: This gives the filling its signature velvet-smooth sweetness and ensures the mixture holds together well.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: The luscious glue that binds everything, making the candy decadently creamy inside.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of real vanilla deepens flavor and brings a warm, inviting aroma to each bite.
• Sweetened Shredded Coconut: Coconut flakes provide the classic chewy texture and add a tropical note that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
• Chopped Pecans: These bring earthy crunch and a lovely nutty undertone to offset the sweetness of the candy.
• Maraschino Cherries: Chopped and dried, they add juicy pops of color and a lovely hint of tartness.
• Chocolate Almond Bark: For that glossy, crisp coating—choose almond bark for easy melting and a smooth finish.
• White Candy Melts or White Almond Bark: A pretty finishing touch, drizzled over the top for a pop of contrast and extra sweetness.

How to Make Martha Washington Candy Delight

Step 1: Make the Creamy Filling

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add in your soft butter, confectioners sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s completely smooth and creamy. This is the luscious foundation for your Martha Washington Candy Delight, and trust me, you’ll be tempted to sneak a taste before you move on!

Step 2: Stir in Coconut, Pecans, and Cherries

Time for texture and color! Gently fold in the sweetened shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and those cherry-red maraschino bits. Each stir disperses little gems of crunch and chew, making every candy ball uniquely delightful. Be sure your cherries are well-drained and patted dry, so the filling stays firm.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Once your mixture is combined, cover the bowl tightly and pop it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the candy mixture firm up enough to handle and roll into neat balls—no sticky hands or spills!

Step 4: Shape Into Balls

Line two baking sheets with parchment or wax paper. Roll the chilled candy mixture into 1-inch balls, setting each one onto the lined sheets as you go. If the mixture gets sticky, lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar. Once all the balls are formed, place the trays in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you want them extra firm.

Step 5: Dip in Chocolate

Melt half of the chocolate almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl, working in 30-second bursts and stirring until smooth. Take one tray of candies out of the fridge, and using a toothpick or fork, dip each ball into the warm chocolate. Allow the excess to drip off, then place each one back on the lined tray. When finished, refrigerate that batch while you melt the remaining chocolate and repeat with the second tray.

Step 6: Drizzle and Set

Once every ball is cozily coated in chocolate, melt the white candy melts or white almond bark and drizzle it over the candies for a beautiful finishing touch. Let everything set—either at room temperature until firm or speed things up with a stint in the fridge. When the chocolate is set, Martha Washington Candy Delight is ready to be devoured!

How to Serve Martha Washington Candy Delight

Garnishes

Accent your candies by sprinkling a touch of extra chopped pecans or a light dusting of sparkling sugar over the wet drizzle. A few flecks of coconut or even a tiny cherry slice perched on top will make each bite look as special as it tastes.

Side Dishes

While Martha Washington Candy Delight shines on its own, pairing it alongside a cup of coffee, black tea, or a glass of milk makes for a dreamy afternoon treat. If you’re serving for the holidays, a little platter of fresh fruit or salty pretzels balances the sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Gift these candies in a festive tin lined with parchment paper, or display them in mini paper cups on a pretty dessert tray. For a party, try threading them onto skewers with other bite-sized treats, or stack them in a mason jar with a ribbon for a charming, homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pile your Martha Washington Candy Delight into an airtight container and tuck them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks. The chilled environment helps the chocolate stay crisp and the flavors meld together even more.

Freezing

Want to get ahead for the holidays? These candies freeze wonderfully! Arrange them in a freezer-safe container with wax paper between layers, and freeze for up to three months. Let them thaw in the fridge before serving, and you’ll always have a sweet surprise ready to go.

Reheating

Martha Washington Candy Delight is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t really needed. If you prefer a softer filling, leave a few candies out at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut if I don’t have pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make delicious substitutes for pecans in Martha Washington Candy Delight. Each brings a slightly different flavor and crunch, so feel free to use what you have on hand or love most.

Is it possible to make Martha Washington Candy Delight without coconut?

While coconut adds that iconic chew and sweetness, you can skip it if needed. Replace it with extra nuts, finely chopped dried fruit, or even some oats for texture. The candies will still taste fantastic!

What’s the best way to melt chocolate almond bark?

Microwaving in short 30-second intervals and stirring in between is the quickest, easiest way to get silky smooth chocolate. You can also use a double boiler if you prefer a slower, gentler melt.

Can I prepare Martha Washington Candy Delight in advance for gifting?

Definitely! These candies actually benefit from sitting a day or two ahead—you’ll find the flavors deepen and the texture becomes even more luscious. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to package them up.

How do I keep the filling from sticking to my hands?

Dust your hands (and any utensils) with a little confectioners sugar before rolling the balls. It works like magic and makes the process mess-free!

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a candy that’s equal parts nostalgic and irresistible, Martha Washington Candy Delight is the treat to try. The combination of creamy filling, fruit, nuts, and chocolate coating is truly special—and surprisingly simple to make, too! Whip up a batch for your next celebration or just for fun, and you’ll quickly see why this sweet is a perennial favorite. Happy candy-making!

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