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
Scale
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.
