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 and melted chocolate drifting through the kitchen.

These bite-sized treasures, once a staple at church socials and holiday cookie 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 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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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.

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

1. Drain cherries well – moisture causes chocolate to seize.
2. Pat cherries dry with paper towels before chopping.
3. Chill filling thoroughly so balls hold shape while dipping.
4. Use a toothpick to dip cleanly and avoid finger marks.
5. Work in small batches – keep undipped balls chilled.
6. Add 1 tsp shortening to melting chocolate for silkier finish.
7. Decorate quickly – sprinkles or crushed nuts stick only before chocolate sets.
8. Use dark or white coating for color contrast on holiday trays.
9. Label containers with date if freezing to maintain freshness.
10. 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.

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.