If you’ve been hunting for a delightful treat that wraps nostalgia and festive flavors into one perfect bite, the Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic confection combines a luscious blend of creamy sweetness, crunchy pecans, chewy coconut, and vibrant maraschino cherries, all dipped in rich chocolate. Whether it’s for holiday celebrations or a special gift, this candy has stood the test of time and continues to charm sweet tooths everywhere with its irresistible old-world appeal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Every component, from the buttery base to the rich chocolate coating, adds depth and character to this timeless candy.
- 0.5 cup butter, softened: Provides a creamy richness that binds and softens the texture.
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and moisture, giving the candy a smooth consistency.
- 2 pounds powdered sugar: Essential for that signature sugary sweetness and structure.
- 2 cups chopped pecans: Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to contrast the smooth base.
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut: Brings chewiness and tropical undertones that brighten the candy.
- 10 ounces maraschino cherries, drained and chopped: Adds bursts of festive color and a fruity zing.
- 16 ounces chocolate melting wafers: Creates a glossy, indulgent chocolate coating that seals in flavor.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening: Helps the chocolate coating melt smoothly and sets with a perfect snap.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sweetened Condensed Milk
Start by beating together the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk in a large bowl until you achieve a smooth, creamy mixture. This step forms the luscious base for your candy, ensuring it stays moist and velvety throughout.
Step 2: Incorporate the Powdered Sugar
Next, gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing continuously. This crucial step transforms the creamy mixture into a thick, sweet dough that will hold its shape while still remaining tender and rich.
Step 3: Fold in Pecans, Coconut, and Cherries
Gently fold in the chopped pecans, shredded coconut, and chopped maraschino cherries until everything is evenly distributed. These ingredients bring exciting textures and bursts of flavor that elevate this candy from simple sweetness to a multi-dimensional treat.
Step 4: Chill the Mixture
Cover your bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least one hour. This chilling step is vital because it firms up the candy dough, making it much easier to shape into balls in the next step.
Step 5: Shape and Freeze the Candy Balls
Once firm, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze the balls for one hour so they are solid and ready for dipping. This freezing step keeps the candies from falling apart during the coating process.
Step 6: Melt the Chocolate Coating
Gently melt the chocolate wafers along with coconut oil or shortening in the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals with a good stir between each. Melting gradually protects the chocolate from burning and produces a smooth, shiny coating.
Step 7: Dip and Set the Candies
Using a fork, dip each frozen ball into the melted chocolate, tapping off excess coating before placing it back on parchment to set completely. This final step encases your candy in a crisp chocolate shell, sealing in all those delicious flavors and textures.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishes, a light sprinkle of crushed pecans or a few extra coconut flakes on top before the chocolate sets adds an inviting crunch and visual flair. For a festive touch, bright red maraschino cherry halves make an adorable decoration that hints at the cherry inside.
Side Dishes
This candy plays wonderfully alongside a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa, making both the beverage and the treat shine brighter. It also pairs beautifully with holiday cheese platters or nut assortments, adding a sweet counterpoint to savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your presentation sparkle by arranging these candies in a decorative tin or wrapping them in colorful parchment paper tied with twine. For parties, display them on a festive platter with doilies or nestle them among holiday greenery to delight your guests visually and palate-wise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These candies keep beautifully stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Keeping them chilled preserves the texture and prevents the chocolate coating from becoming soft or sticky.
Freezing
You can freeze any leftover Martha Washington candies by placing them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and covering them airtight afterward. Frozen candies stay fresh for up to three months and are perfect to defrost before unexpected guests arrive.
Reheating
Since this candy is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary. Simply allow frozen or refrigerated candies to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to bring out their flavors and soften the center slightly.
FAQs
What makes this an Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy Recipe?
The recipe has been passed down through generations, staying true to the traditional ingredients and methods that give it its unique texture, sweetness, and festive charm reminiscent of classic American holiday treats.
Can I substitute the pecans for other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts can work well. Just choose nuts you enjoy, but keep in mind each will bring a slightly different flavor and texture to the candy.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You could try substituting the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use a dairy-free condensed milk alternative. Just keep texture in mind, as these swaps might alter the candy’s consistency slightly.
How long does it take to prepare this candy?
Active preparation time is about 30 minutes, but including chilling and freezing steps, plan on around 1 hour and 30 minutes total before the candy is ready to enjoy.
Can I use regular chocolate instead of melting wafers?
Yes, but melting wafers are formulated to melt smoothly and set quickly without seizing, which helps achieve that professional, glossy finish. If using regular chocolate, add a little coconut oil or shortening as indicated and melt carefully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing the Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy Recipe. It’s a delicious nod to simpler times that brings joy to both maker and eater alike. If you’re looking to treat yourself or impress your loved ones with a nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth candy, this recipe is a wonderful place to start. Give it a try, and enjoy every magical bite!
Print
Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 48 servings
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy is a nostalgic treat featuring a creamy, buttery center loaded with pecans, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries, all enrobed in smooth chocolate. This classic no-bake recipe is perfect for holiday gift-giving or special occasions, offering a rich combination of sweet, nutty, and fruity flavors with a delightful texture contrast.
Ingredients
Candy Center
- 0.5 cup butter, softened
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 2 pounds powdered sugar
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 10 ounces maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
Chocolate Coating
- 16 ounces chocolate melting wafers
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
Instructions
- Prepare the Candy Mixture: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This forms the rich base for the candy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the bowl, mixing continuously until fully incorporated and the mixture becomes thick and dough-like.
- Mix in Nuts, Coconut, and Cherries: Fold in the chopped pecans, shredded coconut, and chopped maraschino cherries, mixing evenly to distribute these flavorful ingredients throughout the candy mixture.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour or until it firms up enough to handle for shaping.
- Shape the Candy Balls: Once chilled, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze the balls for 1 hour to solidify before dipping.
- Melt the Chocolate: Melt the chocolate wafers with the coconut oil or shortening in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each interval to ensure a smooth, even melt.
- Dip the Candy Balls: Using a fork, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, tapping off any excess coating before placing them back onto the parchment-lined sheet to set completely.
Notes
- Ensure the maraschino cherries are well drained to prevent excess moisture in the candy mixture.
- Use good-quality chocolate melting wafers for a smooth coating that sets nicely.
- If desired, decorate the set candies with sprinkles or drizzle contrasting chocolate for an elegant touch.
- Store the candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- For easier shaping, keep your hands slightly chilled or lightly dusted with powdered sugar.
