What ingredients do I need to make Martha Washington Candies?

To make Martha Washington Candies, you'll need butter (melted), powdered sugar, vanilla extract, shredded sweetened coconut, sweetened condensed milk, maraschino cherries (chopped and well drained), chopped pecans or other nuts, and a candy coating like melting wafers or almond bark. These ingredients come together to create the rich, sweet filling and crisp outer layer that characterize this classic treat.

How should I prepare maraschino cherries for Martha Washington Candies?

Maraschino cherries should be chopped into small pieces and thoroughly drained to remove excess liquid. After draining, blot the cherries with paper towels to dry them further. This step is important to prevent excess moisture from weakening the candy mixture and ensures the candies maintain their texture and shape.

What is the best method to form and coat Martha Washington Candies?

After mixing the ingredients, refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours to firm it up. Then, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and chill them again for about 20 minutes. Melt the candy coating according to package directions, dip each candy ball into the coating, and place them on parchment paper to set. Chilling before dipping helps the coating harden evenly and quickly.

How should Martha Washington Candies be stored to maintain freshness?

Store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, flash freeze the candy balls for 20 minutes, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and keep them frozen for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving for best texture and flavor.

Can I substitute different nuts or make adjustments to the recipe for Martha Washington Candies?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds according to your preference. The recipe is flexible, so you may also adjust the size of the candies to yield fewer or more pieces. Just remember that changing nuts can slightly alter the flavor and texture of the final product.

Martha Washington Candies Recipe Tips For Traditional Treats

Ingredients

– 1 cup melted butter

– 1 pound powdered sugar

– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

– 14 ounces sweetened shredded coconut

– 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk

– 10 ounces maraschino cherries (well-drained, chopped, and blotted dry)

– 3 cups finely chopped pecans (or other preferred nuts)

– 16 ounces candy coating such as melting wafers or almond bark

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Instructions

1-Start by chopping and thoroughly drying the maraschino cherries to remove excess moisture, which is crucial for the candies’ texture.

2-In a large bowl, mix all ingredients except the candy coating until well combined, then refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours to chill and firm up.

3-Once chilled, shape the mixture into walnut-sized balls about 1 inch in diameter and let them chill for another 20 minutes.

4-Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

5-Melt the candy coating according to the package instructions, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, tap off the excess, and place them on the baking sheet to set.

6-Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a quicker result.

7-First step: Gather your ingredients and prepare the cherries by chopping them finely and blotting them dry with paper towels.

8-Second step: In that large bowl, combine the melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, dried cherries, and chopped pecans, stirring until everything is evenly mixed.

9-Refrigerate the blended mixture for at least two hours to make it easier to handle.

10-Form the chilled mixture into 1-inch balls and chill again for 20 minutes.

11-Melt the candy coating and dip each ball carefully, using tools for a neat finish.

12-Place the dipped candies on parchment paper and let them set.

Notes

🍒 Ensure the maraschino cherries are thoroughly dried to prevent excess moisture in the candy mixture
🍫 Use candy dipping tools for easier coating and a neater appearance on your finished candies
❄️ Chilling the filling thoroughly helps the chocolate set faster and prevents the candies from becoming too soft

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Candy
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American Traditional
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 candy
Calories: 200
Sugar: 21g
Sodium: 55mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 10mg