Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy

Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that brings a nostalgic twist to your dessert table. With its luscious blend of coconut, pecans, and cherries, this candy is not only simple to make but also incredibly tasty. It’s perfect for busy days when you want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 24 pieces
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 210
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 30mg

Why Make Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy

Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy is a wonderful treat that blends rich flavors and textures. It’s not only sweet but also includes coconut and nuts, which add a nice crunch and a bit of wholesome goodness. This candy is versatile too; you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. It’s perfect for sharing at gatherings, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with your family.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy Step by Step

Ingredients

1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups shredded coconut, sweetened
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 jar maraschino cherries
1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
16 oz chocolate melting wafers

Directions

In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk until fully combined.
Stir in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and chopped maraschino cherries.
Once well mixed, form the mixture into small balls or patties.
Chill the candy in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
While the candy is chilling, melt the chocolate melting wafers in a microwave or double boiler.
Dip each chilled candy piece into the melted chocolate, covering completely.
Place dipped candies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Let the chocolate set at room temperature or place in the fridge to speed up the process.
Enjoy your Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy!

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy

Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy is delightful on its own but can be served with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgence. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a warm cup of tea for a cozy afternoon treat. It also makes a lovely gift when packaged in decorative boxes or jars.

How to Store Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy

To store your Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent the chocolate coating from becoming too soft. If you need to freeze it, place it in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container for up to two months. Let it thaw in the fridge before enjoying again.

Expert Tips for Cooking Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar.
If you like a bit of a twist, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt to the chocolate.
Make sure the chocolate is fully melted for smooth dipping.
Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits for unique flavor combinations.

Delicious Variations of Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy

For those looking for a twist, consider making a spicy version by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the coconut mixture. You could also create a citrus twist with the addition of orange or lemon zest. For a vegetarian option, you can skip the maraschino cherries and substitute them with dried cranberries or another preferred fruit.

Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy is truly a treat that everyone will enjoy. Its rich flavors and simple preparation make it a must-try for dessert lovers. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with variations, you’re sure to create a memorable treat that will delight your friends and family.