Martha Washington Candies Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love classic homemade treats, the Martha Washington Candies Recipe is an absolute must-try. This nostalgic candy features a luscious blend of powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, chopped maraschino cherries, and crunchy pecans, all dipped in silky smooth chocolate. Every bite melts delightfully in your mouth, balancing fruity tartness with rich nutty texture. Whether you’re gifting or indulging, these candies bring a touch of comforting tradition and buttery sweetness that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays an important role in creating the perfect Martha Washington Candies Recipe. From the powdered sugar that provides sweetness to the pecans adding crunch, every component works in harmony to deliver that signature taste and texture.

• 1 pound powdered sugar: The key to sweetness and a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth candy base.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that enhances the overall flavor beautifully.
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk: Gives the candy a creamy richness and binds the ingredients together perfectly.
• 10 ounces maraschino cherries, drained and chopped: Brings a juicy, colorful pop of fruity flavor to every bite.
• 3 cups finely chopped pecans: Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty depth to balance the sweetness.
• Candy coating such as Ghirardelli melting wafers or Almond bark: Creates that glossy, smooth finish that makes the candies irresistibly chocolatey.

How to Make Martha Washington Candies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the cherries

Start by chopping the maraschino cherries into small pieces. This ensures that the fruity bursts will be perfectly distributed throughout every candy bite.

Step 2: Absorb excess liquid from cherries

Place the chopped cherries on a paper towel to soak up the extra liquid. Then gently blot them with more paper towels. This step keeps your candy from becoming too wet and helps maintain the ideal consistency.

Step 3: Combine the ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, sweetened condensed milk, chopped cherries, and finely chopped pecans. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to make sure everything is evenly combined into a thick, cohesive mixture.

Step 4: Refrigerate mixture

Cover the bowl and let the mixture chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours. This refrigeration step firms up the mixture, making it easier to roll into balls and work with in the next steps.

Step 5: Form walnut-sized balls

Using your hands, shape the chilled mixture into small, walnut-sized balls. Pop them back into the refrigerator for about 20 minutes — this quick chill allows them to set up and hold their shape better during dipping.

Step 6: Melt the candy coating

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the candy coating following the package instructions, ensuring the chocolate is silky smooth and ready for dipping.

Step 7: Dip the balls in chocolate

Using dipping tools or forks, coat each ball thoroughly with the melted candy coating. Tap off any excess and place the dipped candies on the lined baking sheet to set. This step transforms them into beautiful, glossy treats that look as good as they taste.

Step 8: Finish coating all candies

Repeat the dipping process until every ball is enveloped in chocolate. Once complete, allow them to sit at room temperature until the chocolate hardens for that perfect final texture.

Step 9: Store properly

Keep your finished Martha Washington Candies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks, making them ideal to prepare in advance or share with friends and family.

How to Serve Martha Washington Candies Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a few finely chopped pecans or a tiny cherry piece on top right after dipping to add a lovely decorative touch. This also hints at the flavors inside, making for a charming presentation.

Side Dishes

These candies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk. The bittersweet balance complements the rich chocolate and makes for a satisfying dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the candies in colorful paper cups or on decorative platters for gift trays or holiday parties. You could also package them in pretty tins or boxes layered with parchment for a heartfelt homemade gift that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Martha Washington Candies keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This makes it easy to prepare ahead for events or enjoy over time without worrying about freshness.

Freezing

If you want to save them for longer, you can freeze the candies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transferring to a sealed freezer container. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

Since these candies are meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. Just bring frozen candies to room temperature to regain their lovely creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! While pecans provide a classic flavor and texture, walnuts or almonds are great alternatives that bring their own delicious crunch to the Martha Washington Candies Recipe.

Is it necessary to dry the cherries before mixing?

Yes, blotting the cherries dry prevents excess moisture from making the candy mixture too soft and helps the candies hold their shape better after chilling and dipping.

What type of chocolate is best for the coating?

Melting wafers like Ghirardelli or Almond bark are ideal because they melt smoothly and set quickly with a shiny finish. You can also use good quality chocolate chips if tempered properly.

Can I make these candies vegan?

This recipe relies on sweetened condensed milk, which is dairy-based, so for a vegan option you’d need to substitute with a plant-based condensed milk alternative and ensure the chocolate coating is vegan-friendly.

How long do Martha Washington Candies stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these candies stay fresh and tasty for about two weeks. Proper storage is the key to keeping them soft and delicious.

Final Thoughts

Making the Martha Washington Candies Recipe is such a joyful experience – from mixing the luscious ingredients to the final chocolate coating, these candies carry warmth and tradition in every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and create your own batch of homemade sweetness that’s sure to delight friends, family, or just your own sweet tooth.

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