Martha Washington Candy Recipe

There’s something truly nostalgic about the Easy Martha Washington Candy Recipe—a bite-sized confection that instantly transports you to family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Packed with sweet coconut, juicy maraschino cherries, crunchy pecans, and enrobed in silky chocolate, this treat delivers big on flavor and comfort. It’s the kind of recipe that’s just fun to make—perfect for sharing with kids, assembling with friends, or packaging up as an adorable homemade gift. The best part? You need no fancy equipment or candies expertise to turn out a batch of these irresistible old-fashioned sweets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making the Easy Martha Washington Candy Recipe is a breeze when you gather simple but high-impact ingredients. Each one brings a unique touch—richness, chew, a vibrant pop of color, or creamy melt-in-your-mouth chocolate—that balances beautifully in every bite.

• Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and helps bind everything together for that decadent, tender bite.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling and gives the candies their signature smooth texture.
• Vanilla extract: Boosts fragrance and brings all the flavors together with a warm, homey aroma.
• Shredded sweetened coconut: Offers that chewy texture and tropical flair—don’t skimp, this is key!
• Sweetened condensed milk: Special ingredient alert! It keeps the filling moist and gives every bite a lush, milky flavor.
• Maraschino cherries: These jewel-like bits add color and a surprising juicy burst at the center.
• Chopped pecans: Provide delightful crunch and a nutty richness that balances the candy’s sweetness.
• Chocolate melting wafers: Make for a glossy, easy-to-handle chocolate coating—no tempering needed!

How to Make Easy Martha Washington Candy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Beat together until no lumps remain, yielding a creamy, thick base. Add the vanilla extract and sweetened condensed milk, then keep stirring—this is the secret to a dreamy, truffle-like filling. Fold in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and chopped maraschino cherries last, making sure everything is evenly mixed and gloriously colorful.

Step 2: Chill the Mixture

This filling is sticky and rich, so it needs a good chill in the refrigerator. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for about 1 hour (don’t rush this step). Once chilled, it will be much easier to handle and shape into perfect little bites.

Step 3: Roll into Balls

Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll tablespoons of the filling into bite-sized balls. Place each on a parchment-lined baking tray. If the mixture starts sticking to your hands, lightly dust your palms with powdered sugar to keep things neat.

Step 4: Freeze the Balls

Transfer the tray to your freezer for 30 minutes. This quick freeze locks the fillings together, ensuring they won’t melt or fall apart when dipped in warm chocolate.

Step 5: Dip in Chocolate

Melt the chocolate wafers according to package instructions (microwave or stovetop both work well). Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully lower each chilled candy ball into the chocolate, coating it fully. Let any excess drip off, then set the dipped candies back onto the parchment. Watching that glossy chocolate shell set is just pure magic!

Step 6: Set and Enjoy

Let the chocolate set at room temperature or pop the tray into the fridge to speed things along. Once firm, your Easy Martha Washington Candy Recipe treats are ready to serve, gift, or sneak from the kitchen when no one’s looking!

How to Serve Easy Martha Washington Candy Recipe

Garnishes

For a little flair, top each candy with a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans, a pinch of coconut, or a tiny sliver of cherry before the chocolate sets. These small touches not only make the candies look even more tempting but hint at the yumminess tucked inside.

Side Dishes

Pair these candies with a hot cup of coffee, a creamy glass of milk, or a minty herbal tea for a comforting after-dinner treat. They also look beautiful on a dessert platter alongside shortbread cookies, fruit, or festive cupcakes.

Creative Ways to Present

Gift your Easy Martha Washington Candy Recipe in pretty candy boxes, cellophane bags tied with ribbon, or set them out on a vintage cake stand for parties. For holidays, tuck them in little paper liners or nestle among pine branches for a handmade touch that truly wows.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These candies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Store them in single layers separated by wax paper to preserve that beautiful chocolate shell and keep the centers extra fresh.

Freezing

Need to prepare them ahead? No problem—freeze your Easy Martha Washington Candy Recipe in a sealed container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

No reheating necessary! These are meant to be enjoyed straight from the fridge or at room temp. If they’ve been frozen, just let them gently thaw. The centers will stay soft, the chocolate will still snap, and every bite is pure bliss.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work really well if you want to switch things up. They each add their own character—just make sure to chop them small for the best bite.

What’s the best way to chop maraschino cherries without making a sticky mess?

Pat the cherries dry with paper towels first, then use a sharp knife. This helps prevent excess juice from weeping into your filling and keeps everything beautifully blended rather than soggy.

Do I have to use chocolate melting wafers, or can I use regular chocolate?

Melting wafers are super user-friendly, but if you prefer, you can use chopped semisweet chocolate or chocolate chips. Add a teaspoon of coconut oil for a smoother, glossier finish and easier dipping.

Can I make these candies without coconut?

Coconut really sets this Easy Martha Washington Candy Recipe apart, but if you absolutely must, you can substitute finely crushed graham crackers or leave it out for a different (but delicious) texture.

How do I make the candies a uniform size?

A small cookie scoop helps keep each candy the same size—but don’t worry if a few look a little rustic! They’ll all taste delicious, and a homemade look just adds charm.

Final Thoughts

Making the Easy Martha Washington Candy Recipe is more than just a treat—it’s a sweet tradition you’ll want to share again and again. From their pretty, jewel-toned centers to their rich, chocolatey shells, these candies will charm anyone lucky enough to try them. Give this recipe a try, and you might just discover a new favorite to add to your celebrations year after year!

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