Old Fashioned Martha Washington Candy
Introduction
Old Fashioned Martha Washington Candy is a sweet treat that brings back warm memories and smiles. It’s a delightful mix of flavors that combines chocolate, cherries, and nuts into small, melty bites. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, this candy is a nostalgic favorite that is easy to prepare!
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this recipe because it’s simple, delicious, and loved by many! These little candies are perfect for parties, holidays, or just as a special dessert. They are great for taking to family gatherings or enjoying on a cozy night in. Plus, they are fun to make together with kids or loved ones!
How to Make Old Fashioned Martha Washington Candy
Ingredients:
- 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 bowl, cream together the softened butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix well until combined.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the mixture is fully blended.
- Stir in the shredded coconut, chopped maraschino cherries, and chopped pecans.
- Take small portions of the mixture and form them into balls or patties.
- Chill the formed candies in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm them up.
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening in a double boiler or microwave until smooth.
- Dip each chilled candy in the melted chocolate, making sure they are fully coated.
- Place the dipped candies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them cool until the chocolate sets.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Martha Washington Candy
Serve these candies on a nice platter to share with friends and family. They are perfect for dessert after dinner or as a sweet snack anytime. You can also wrap them up in small boxes or bags for gifts!
How to Store Old Fashioned Martha Washington Candy
Store your candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks. Just make sure they are kept sealed to maintain their freshness.
Tips to Make Old Fashioned Martha Washington Candy
- Make sure the butter is really soft; it mixes better with the other ingredients.
- Chill the candies well before dipping to keep their shape.
- If the chocolate is too thick, add a bit more shortening to make it easier to coat the candies.
Variation
You can try adding different nuts or using white chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a different flavor. Some people like to experiment with dried fruits or other flavors, so feel free to get creative!
FAQs
1. Can I make these candies ahead of time?
Yes! You can make them a few days ahead and store them in an airtight container for freshness.
2. Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives.
3. What if I don’t have maraschino cherries?
You can leave them out or use dried cherries for a chewy texture instead.
