Why You'll Love This Martha Washington Candy
Martha Washington Candy is a classic, easy-to-make treat that combines coconut, pecans, and maraschino cherries in a rich chocolate coating. It's perfect for holiday occasions and makes a wonderful gift, yielding about five dozen candies that you can adjust in size to suit your needs. This recipe stands out for its simplicity and delicious balance of flavors, making it a go-to option for anyone looking to create memorable treats without much hassle.
One of the best things about this Martha Washington Candy is how straightforward it is to prepare. You won't need any special tools or advanced skills, which makes it ideal for busy parents, students, and even seniors who enjoy baking. Plus, the nutritional profile, with each candy offering around 200 calories, 22 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of protein, 12 grams of fat, and 21 grams of sugar, means you can indulge a bit while keeping things in check.
Beyond its ease, this candy brings joy with its versatile nature. Whether you're a food enthusiast experimenting with flavors or a diet-conscious individual, it adapts well to various preferences. Imagine sharing these delightful bites on a holiday tray they truly enhance any gathering and create those warm, family moments we all cherish.
Jump To
- 1. Why You'll Love This Martha Washington Candy
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Martha Washington Candy
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Martha Washington Candy: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Martha Washington Candy
- 5. Mastering Martha Washington Candy: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Martha Washington Candy: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Martha Washington Candy
- 8. Martha Washington Candy
Essential Ingredients for Martha Washington Candy
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making perfect Martha Washington Candy. Below is a comprehensive list based on the classic recipe, ensuring you have everything needed for a successful batch. This list includes precise measurements to make your preparation smooth and accurate.
- 1 cup melted butter
- 1 pound (about 450 grams) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 14 ounces (approximately 400 grams) sweetened shredded coconut
- 14 ounces (approximately 400 grams) sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk)
- 10 ounces (about 280 grams) maraschino cherries, drained, chopped, and blotted dry
- 3 cups finely chopped pecans (other nuts can be substituted)
- 16 ounces (about 450 grams) candy coating, such as melting wafers or almond bark
These ingredients work together to create the candy's rich texture and flavor. For special dietary options, you can swap butter for a plant-based alternative to make it vegan, or ensure all items are gluten-free certified. For those watching calories, consider using a sugar substitute, but remember to adjust quantities carefully.
Nutritional Breakdown Table
| Nutrient | Amount per Candy |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Carbohydrates | 22 grams |
| Protein | 1 gram |
| Fat | 12 grams (including 6 grams saturated fat) |
| Sugar | 21 grams |
If you're curious about the health perks of key ingredients like coconut, check out this resource on health benefits of coconut. It's a great way to learn how these elements contribute to your treat.
How to Prepare the Perfect Martha Washington Candy: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting started with Martha Washington Candy involves a few simple steps that lead to a tasty result. First, mix the melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, sweetened shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, drained and chopped maraschino cherries, and finely chopped pecans in a large bowl until well combined. This mixture forms the base of your candy and captures that rich, decadent flavor everyone loves.
After mixing, chill the entire mixture in the refrigerator for at least two hours to make it easier to handle. Once chilled, shape the mixture into walnut-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet. Chill these balls again for another 20 minutes to firm them up before the next step.
Then, melt the candy coating, such as melting wafers or almond bark, and dip each chilled ball into the coating until fully covered. Allow the coated candies to set and harden either at room temperature or in the refrigerator. For extra tips on making this process smoother, remember that thoroughly draining the cherries is crucial to avoid excess moisture, and chilling helps with dipping.
Common Tips for Success
- Always blot the cherries dry after chopping to prevent the mixture from getting too wet.
- Use high-quality melting wafers for a smoother finish on your candies.
- If you're making a large batch, consider freezing the candies after an initial chill for later use.
This method ensures your Martha Washington Candy turns out perfectly every time. If you enjoy similar no-bake desserts, you might like our no-bake chocolate eclair cake recipe, which offers another easy option for your baking adventures.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Martha Washington Candy
Martha Washington Candy is versatile, allowing you to tweak it for different dietary needs. For instance, if you're looking to substitute pecans, walnuts or almonds can provide a similar nutty crunch while keeping the candy's signature taste. This flexibility makes it a hit for food enthusiasts and those with allergies.
Another way to customize is by swapping sweeteners, like using maple syrup instead of part of the powdered sugar for a natural twist. For vegetable-based modifications, adding a dash of cinnamon can enhance the flavor without overpowering the mix. These changes help maintain the candy's texture while catering to personal preferences.
Remember the importance of ingredients like pecans; for more on their benefits, visit this guide to health benefits of pecans. It's a helpful resource for understanding why nuts are a great addition to your recipes.
Mastering Martha Washington Candy: Advanced Tips and Variations
Taking your Martha Washington Candy to the next level involves some pro techniques, like using a candy thermometer to monitor temperatures accurately during preparation. This prevents any graininess and ensures a smooth texture that makes the treat even more enjoyable. With practice, you'll find it's a fun way to impress friends and family.
For flavor variations, try adding dried fruits or a hint of spice to the mix for a unique twist. Presentation is key too presenting the candy in pretty packaging can turn it into a thoughtful gift. If you're planning ahead, make a big batch and store it properly for up to two weeks.
Ideas for Creative Variations
- Experiment with different nuts for a new texture.
- Add spices like cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Turn it into a party favor by wrapping individual pieces.
These candies are rich, so smaller sizes work well for sharing. If you're into more dessert ideas, check out our pecan cheesecake pie for another nutty delight that pairs perfectly with this recipe.
How to Store Martha Washington Candy: Best Practices
Proper storage keeps your Martha Washington Candy fresh and tasty. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or refrigerate it to maintain firmness. This simple step helps preserve the chocolate coating and prevents any stickiness from humidity.
For longer-term options, freezing is a great choice wrap the pieces individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature. Meal prep enthusiasts will love making large batches to have on hand for snacks or gifts.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Martha Washington Candy
What ingredients do I need to make Martha Washington Candy?
To make Martha Washington Candy, you will need butter (melted), powdered sugar, vanilla extract, shredded sweetened coconut, sweetened condensed milk, maraschino cherries (drained and finely chopped), chopped pecans, and a candy coating like melting wafers or almond bark for dipping. These ingredients combine to create the candy’s rich and chewy texture.
How should I prepare maraschino cherries for Martha Washington Candy?
Start by draining the maraschino cherries well to remove excess syrup. Then chop them into small pieces and gently blot with paper towels to remove any remaining moisture. Proper drying prevents the candy from becoming too wet and helps maintain the right texture.
What are the steps to make Martha Washington Candy at home?
First, mix melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, sweetened shredded coconut, chopped maraschino cherries, sweetened condensed milk, and chopped pecans in a large bowl. Refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours. Next, shape the mixture into walnut-sized balls and chill them for another 20 minutes. Finally, dip each ball into melted candy coating and allow them to set at room temperature or in the fridge.
How should Martha Washington Candy be stored and how long does it last?
Store Martha Washington Candy in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly stored, the candies will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Avoid humid environments as moisture can affect texture and cause the coating to become sticky.
Can Martha Washington Candy be frozen for later use?
Yes, you can freeze Martha Washington Candy. Arrange the candy balls on a baking sheet and flash freeze them for about 20 minutes to prevent sticking. Then transfer the candies to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.
Martha Washington Candy
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: About 60 candies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
🍫 Enjoy the rich flavors of Martha Washington Candies, blending coconut, pecans, and maraschino cherries in a luscious chocolate coating.
🎁 Perfect for holiday treats and gift-giving, these candies are easy to make and sure to impress with their classic taste.
Ingredients
– 1 cup melted butter
– 1 pound (about 450 grams) powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 14 ounces (approximately 400 grams) sweetened shredded coconut
– 14 ounces (approximately 400 grams) sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk)
– 10 ounces (about 280 grams) maraschino cherries, drained, chopped, and blotted dry
– 3 cups finely chopped pecans (other nuts can be substituted)
– 16 ounces (about 450 grams) candy coating, such as melting wafers or almond bark
Instructions
1-Getting started with Martha Washington Candy involves a few simple steps that lead to a tasty result. First, mix the melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, sweetened shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, drained and chopped maraschino cherries, and finely chopped pecans in a large bowl until well combined. This mixture forms the base of your candy and captures that rich, decadent flavor everyone loves.
2-After mixing, chill the entire mixture in the refrigerator for at least two hours to make it easier to handle. Once chilled, shape the mixture into walnut-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet. Chill these balls again for another 20 minutes to firm them up before the next step.
3-Then, melt the candy coating, such as melting wafers or almond bark, and dip each chilled ball into the coating until fully covered. Allow the coated candies to set and harden either at room temperature or in the refrigerator. For extra tips on making this process smoother, remember that thoroughly draining the cherries is crucial to avoid excess moisture, and chilling helps with dipping.
Notes
🍒 Thoroughly drain and blot maraschino cherries to prevent excess moisture in the mixture.
❄️ Chill the mixture and formed balls well before dipping for easier handling and better coating.
🍫 Use good quality melting wafers or almond bark for a smooth, glossy chocolate finish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: Mixing, Chilling, Dipping
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 candy
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 21 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Protein: 1 g
Keywords: Martha Washington Candies, Nutty Chocolate Treats, Holiday Candies, Coconut Pecan Chocolates