Martha Washington Candies Recipe
Martha Washington Candies are delightful, bite-sized treats made with a creamy mixture of powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, chopped maraschino cherries, and pecans, all coated in a smooth candy coating. These nostalgic confections offer a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making them an ideal homemade gift or party favor.
- Author: Windy
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for melting and dipping)
- Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: Approximately 40 candies 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-bake, dipping
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Filling Ingredients
- 1 pound powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 10 ounces maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 3 cups finely chopped pecans
Candy Coating
- Such as Ghirardelli melting wafers, Almond bark, or comparable candy coating
- Chop cherries: Chop the maraschino cherries into small pieces, then place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess liquid. Blot dry with additional paper towels to prevent the filling from becoming too wet.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, sweetened condensed milk, chopped cherries, and finely chopped pecans. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated into a thick mixture.
- Refrigerate the mixture: Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least two hours to allow it to firm up, making it easier to shape.
- Form balls: Once chilled, remove the mixture and shape it into walnut-sized balls. Place the formed balls onto a tray and refrigerate for another 20 minutes to set.
- Melt candy coating: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the candy coating according to the package instructions, ensuring it is smooth and suitable for dipping.
- Dip balls in chocolate: Using dipping tools or a fork, coat each ball completely in the melted candy coating. Tap off any excess coating and place the dipped candies on the prepared baking sheet to set.
- Repeat coating: Continue dipping all the balls until they are fully covered. Allow the candies to set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator if needed.
- Store candies: Once the candy coating has hardened, store the Martha Washington Candies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep fresh and delicious for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Make sure to blot the cherries dry to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
- For easier handling, chill the filling mixture thoroughly before shaping.
- Use high-quality candy coating for a smooth, professional finish.
- Store candies in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 candy (about 20g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Martha Washington candies, homemade candy, pecan cherry candy, no-bake candy, holiday sweets, maraschino cherries, sweet treats