---
title: Old fashioned Martha Washington Candy
url: https://optimalrecipes.com/old-fashioned-martha-washington-candy/
author: Patricia Jannet
published: 2025-10-18
updated: 2025-10-19
image: https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Old-fashioned-Martha-Washington-Candy.webp
categories: ["Breakfast"]
site: Optimal Recipes
---

# Old fashioned Martha Washington Candy

> The first time you bite into a Martha Washington Candy, the world slows down for a moment. The smooth snap of chocolate gives way to a sweet, chewy center loaded with coconut, ruby-red maraschino cherries, and buttery pecans. The aroma is pure Christmas nostalgia — a mix of toasted nuts...

![Old fashioned Martha Washington Candy](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Old-fashioned-Martha-Washington-Candy.webp)

## Article

The first time you bite into a *Martha Washington Candy*, the world slows down for a moment. The smooth snap of chocolate gives way to a sweet, chewy center loaded with coconut, ruby-red maraschino cherries, and buttery pecans. The aroma is pure Christmas nostalgia — a mix of toasted nuts and melted chocolate drifting through the kitchen.

These bite-sized treasures, once a staple at church socials and [holiday cookie](https://optimalrecipes.com/category/desserts-sweets/) swaps, remain one of America’s most beloved homemade candies. Whether you’re filling a Christmas candy tin, surprising friends with edible gifts, or simply craving an old-fashioned treat that tastes like home, this **easy Martha Washington Candies recipe** delivers every time.

 **Ready to bring a little vintage sweetness to your kitchen? Let’s make a batch — and don’t forget **[**to Save, Pin, and Share this recipe**](https://www.pinterest.com/optimalrecipesvip/)so your friends can taste a little nostalgia too! 💕🍬

### What Makes This So Irresistible

- Classic nostalgia – a recipe straight from grandma’s holiday platter.

- Texture heaven – chewy, crunchy, and creamy all in one bite.

- Simple ingredients – nothing fancy, just pantry staples.

- Perfect for gifting – stores beautifully and travels well.

- Crowd-pleaser – both kids and adults love these chocolate-covered gems.

- Holiday flexibility – ideal for Christmas, Valentine’s, or any sweet celebration.

	

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![](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Old-fashioned-Martha-Washington-Candy.webp)

 
 

## Old-fashioned Martha Washington Candy

	
 
 No reviews

 
 
 

 
- Author: Patricia Jannet
 
- Total Time: 40 minutes
 
- Yield: 30 candies 1x
 
- Diet: Vegetarian
 

 
	

 
 
 
[Print Recipe](#)
 
 
 
[Pin Recipe](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/bookmarklet/?url=%23)

 
 
	
 
 

### Description

 
 Martha Washington Candy are old-fashioned chocolate-dipped sweets filled with coconut, maraschino cherries, and chopped pecans. These nostalgic, chewy candies are perfect for Christmas trays, gifting, or any occasion where you want a rich and festive homemade treat.

 
 
	
 
	
 
 
 
 

### Ingredients

 
 
 
 Scale
 1x2x3x 
 
 
 
 

- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

- 1 pound powdered sugar

- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

- 14 ounces sweetened shredded coconut

- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk

- 10 ounces maraschino cherries, drained and chopped

- 3 cups finely chopped pecans

- 16 ounces candy coating, melting wafers, or almond bark

 
 
	
 
	
 
 
 

### Instructions

 
 
 

- In a large bowl, mix melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

- Stir in sweetened shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk until fully combined.

- Fold in chopped maraschino cherries and pecans until evenly distributed.

- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape mixture into small bite-sized balls and place on the sheet.

- Refrigerate for 1 hour, or until firm.

- Melt candy coating according to package directions until smooth.

- Dip each chilled candy ball into the melted coating, letting excess drip off, then return to the parchment-lined sheet.

- Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until coating is set.

- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

 
	
	
	
 
	
 
 

### Notes

 
 

- Always use parchment paper for easy cleanup and non-stick results.

- Chill filling balls thoroughly before dipping for a smoother coating.

- Add holiday sprinkles, crushed nuts, or coconut flakes on top before the coating sets for decoration.

- Store candies refrigerated; they also freeze well for up to 3 months.

- Swap pecans for almonds or walnuts for a variation in flavor.

 
 
	
 
 

 
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake / Dipped
- Cuisine: American 

 
	
	
	
 
 

### Nutrition

 

 
- Serving Size: 1 candy
 
- Calories: 190
 
- Sugar: 15g
 
- Sodium: 35mg
 
- Fat: 12g
 
- Saturated Fat: 6g
 
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
 
- Trans Fat: 0g
 
- Carbohydrates: 18g
 
- Fiber: 1g
 
- Protein: 2g
 
- Cholesterol: 10mg
 

 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 

### Did you make this recipe?

 Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

 
 
	

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### Ingredients for Martha Washington Candy

*(makes ≈ 30 candies | 190 kcal each)*

- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

- 1 lb powdered sugar

- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract

- 14 oz sweetened shredded coconut

- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk

- 10 oz maraschino cherries, drained & chopped

- 3 cups finely chopped pecans (swap almonds or walnuts to change flavor)

- 16 oz candy coating or almond bark for dipping

**Dietary Swaps:**

- For gluten-free dieters – verify candy coating label; most are naturally GF.

- Dairy-free version – use plant-based butter & dairy-free sweetened condensed milk.

- Nut-free – replace pecans with crushed pretzels or sunflower seeds.

![](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Martha-Washington-Candy.webp)

Old-fashioned Martha Washington Candy — chewy coconut-cherry centers dipped in rich chocolate.

### How to Make Martha Washington Candy – Step by Step

**Step 1 – Mix the Base**
In a large bowl, whisk together *melted butter*, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

**Step 2 – Add the Fill-Ins**
Stir in *coconut* and *sweetened condensed milk* until well combined. Fold in cherries and pecans.

**Step 3 – Shape and Chill**
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll mixture into 1-inch balls. Refrigerate 1 hour until firm.

**Step 4 – Melt the Chocolate**
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat *candy coating* in 30-second bursts until smooth. Stir between bursts.

**Step 5 – Dip and Set**
Using a fork or toothpick, dip each ball into melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Return to the sheet.

**Step 6 – Chill Again**
Refrigerate 30 minutes or until chocolate sets firmly.

**Step 7 – Enjoy or Store**
Transfer candies to an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks or freeze 3 months.

### Pro Tips & Cooking Secrets

- Drain cherries well – moisture causes chocolate to seize.

- Pat cherries dry with paper towels before chopping.

- Chill filling thoroughly so balls hold shape while dipping.

- Use a toothpick to dip cleanly and avoid finger marks.

- Work in small batches – keep undipped balls chilled.

- Add 1 tsp shortening to melting chocolate for silkier finish.

- Decorate quickly – sprinkles or crushed nuts stick only before chocolate sets.

- Use dark or white coating for color contrast on holiday trays.

- Label containers with date if freezing to maintain freshness.

- Gift ready-made – place each candy in mini cupcake liner for professional presentatio

## Variations & Substitutions for Martha Washington Candy

- Classic Southern style: Use half milk chocolate + half semisweet for authentic depth.

- Snowball version: Dip in white chocolate and roll lightly in shredded coconut.

- Cherry-forward twist: Stir in 2 Tbsp maraschino juice for extra color & sweetness.

- Bourbon candies: Add 1 tsp bourbon or rum extract for a grown-up flavor.

- Nut-free: Swap pecans for crushed graham crackers or Rice Krispies for crunch.

- Keto-friendly: Use sugar-free chocolate coating and unsweetened coconut.

- Vegan: Plant-based butter + coconut condensed milk work beautifully.

![](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Martha-Washington-Candy-1.webp)

Inside every Martha Washington Candy — a sweet mix of coconut, cherries, and pecans wrapped in smooth chocolate.

## Best Ways to Serve Martha Washington Candy

- On holiday trays – Mix with fudge, peanut clusters, and divinity for a nostalgic spread.

- Gift boxes – Wrap in cellophane or tin boxes with bows for homemade Christmas gifts.

- Party favor bags – Perfect bite-size treats for showers or office parties.

- Dessert platters – Pair with cookies and truffles at potlucks.

- Frozen snack – Enjoy straight from the freezer for extra crunchy texture.

- Ice-cream topping – Chop and sprinkle over vanilla ice cream for a luxurious touch.

## Nutritional Information (approx. per candy)

**Calories:** 190 | **Carbs:** 18 g | **Fat:** 12 g | **Protein:** 2 g | **Sugar:** 15 g

*(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)*

## Storage & Freezing Guide

- Refrigerator: Up to 2 weeks in airtight container between wax paper layers.

- Freezer: Up to 3 months — thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

- Room temperature: Safe for 1–2 days in cool conditions, but best kept chilled.

- Prevent sweating: Place paper towels in container to absorb moisture.

## FAQs — Martha Washington Candy

**Q 1: Can I make *Martha Washington Candy* ahead of time?**
Absolutely. Prepare and freeze for up to 3 months; dip in chocolate after thawing for best finish.

**Q 2: Why is my chocolate coating cracking?**
Your filling was too cold or chocolate too hot. Let them sit a few minutes before dipping.

**Q 3: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?**
Yes, but drain and dry them thoroughly to avoid extra moisture.

**Q 4: How do I make them look professional?**
Use a fork to dip, tap off excess chocolate, then place in mini paper cups for a bakery finish.

**Q 5: Can I use a slow cooker to melt chocolate?**
Yes — set to LOW, stir often, and avoid water contact to prevent seizing.

## More Tasty Ideas to Explore

if you love this ***Martha Washington Candy*** make :

- Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies | Holiday Treat Recipe

- Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe – Easy & Irresistible Dessert

- No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Truffles

- Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie Recipe – Homemade Dessert

## Your Turn in the Kitchen

Old-fashioned doesn’t mean old-news. *Martha Washington Candy* prove that simple, homemade treats never lose their charm. They’re sweet, chewy, nutty, and dressed in silky chocolate — a bite-size trip down memory lane.

Make a batch for Christmas gifting or just to treat yourself to something nostalgic. Once you taste these, you’ll understand why families have been passing this recipe down for generations.

**Now it’s your turn — grab your mixing bowl and make the best *Martha Washington Candy* at home today!**
Don’t forget to leave a comment below and share your favorite variation — do you add bourbon, extra coconut, or white chocolate drizzle?

### Final Thoughts – Calm and Reflective

There’s something comforting about recipes that stand the test of time. *Martha Washington Candy* remind us that you don’t need fancy techniques to create something memorable — just patience, good ingredients, and a touch of love. Every bite tastes like holiday tradition and warm family memories. So keep this recipe close, share it with friends, and let its sweet legacy continue in your kitchen.

---

**Source**: [Old fashioned Martha Washington Candy](https://optimalrecipes.com/old-fashioned-martha-washington-candy/)
**Site**: Optimal Recipes - https://optimalrecipes.com/
**Author**: Patricia Jannet
**Last updated**: 2025-10-19

*If you cite this recipe, please link to: https://optimalrecipes.com/old-fashioned-martha-washington-candy/*