Martha Washington Candy
Martha Washington Candy Recipe
Martha Washington Candy is a delightful treat that perfectly blends smooth chocolate, creamy coconut, tart cherries, and crunchy pecans. Named after the first lady of the United States, this candy is rich in flavor and texture. With its sweet and nutty profile, Martha Washington Candy makes for a perfect homemade gift or a delicious addition to any dessert table.
Why Make This Recipe
This candy is loved for many reasons:
- Unique Flavor: The combination of coconut, cherries, and pecans creates a mouth-watering contrast that is hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: Although it sounds fancy, it involves simple steps that even beginners can follow.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Christmas, birthdays, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this candy fits all occasions.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
How to Make Martha Washington Candy
Follow this easy step-by-step guide to create your very own Martha Washington Candy.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 14 ounces sweetened shredded coconut
- 10 ounces maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 3 cups pecans, chopped
- 6 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 4 tablespoons shortening
Directions
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Slowly stir in the powdered sugar until fully combined.
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut, chopped maraschino cherries, and chopped pecans until everything is evenly distributed.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 1 hour until firm.
- Once firm, scoop out small portions and shape them into balls or rectangles.
- In a double boiler, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with the shortening until smooth and glossy.
- Dip each candy piece into the chocolate mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Place the dipped candies on wax paper to set.
- Let them cool completely before serving.
How to Serve Martha Washington Candy
These candies are delightful on their own but can be presented in various ways:
- Gift Boxes: Wrap them in decorative boxes or tins for a special gift.
- Dessert Platters: Arrange them on platters alongside other desserts for a beautiful display.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: Serve them with your favorite hot beverages for a cozy treat.
How to Store Martha Washington Candy
To keep your Martha Washington Candy fresh:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Martha Washington Candy
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Use quality chocolate chips for dipping to enhance the flavor.
- For a fun twist, try adding different nuts like walnuts or almonds.
Variations
You can also customize Martha Washington Candy with these variations:
- Choco-Mint: Add a few drops of mint extract to the mixture for a chocolate mint flavor.
- Dried Fruits: Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries for an added fruity touch.
- Different Nuts: Substitute pecans with almonds or walnuts based on your preference.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but be sure to pit and chop them finely before adding to the mixture.
2. Why do I need shortening when melting chocolate?
Shortening helps the chocolate dip smooth and gives it a nice sheen, making it look more appealing.
3. Can I make this candy ahead of time?
Absolutely! Martha Washington Candy can be made in advance and stored, making it a perfect option for holiday preparations or gatherings.
Enjoy making this beloved treat, and share it with family and friends for a delightful experience!
Martha Washington Candy
Ingredients
Candy Mixture
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 14 ounces sweetened shredded coconut
- 10 ounces maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 3 cups pecans, chopped You can substitute with almonds or walnuts.
Chocolate Coating
- 6 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips Use quality chocolate chips for better flavor.
- 4 tablespoons shortening Helps the chocolate dip to be smooth and glossy.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Slowly stir in the powdered sugar until fully combined.
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut, chopped maraschino cherries, and chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 1 hour until firm.
Coating
- Once firm, scoop out small portions and shape them into balls or rectangles.
- In a double boiler, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with the shortening until smooth and glossy.
- Dip each candy piece into the chocolate mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Place the dipped candies on wax paper to set.
- Let them cool completely before serving.
