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Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy Recipe

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3.8 from 27 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 48 servings 1x

Description

This Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy recipe is a nostalgic treat featuring a rich and creamy filling made from butter, sweetened condensed milk, powdered sugar, pecans, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries, all coated in a smooth chocolate shell. These classic candy balls are perfect for holidays and special occasions, combining a delightful texture with a perfect balance of sweetness and nutty flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 0.5 cup butter, softened
  • 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 pounds powdered sugar
  • 2 cups chopped pecans
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 10 ounces maraschino cherries, drained and chopped

Chocolate Coating

  • 16 ounces chocolate melting wafers
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening

Instructions

  1. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring a well-blended base for the candy.
  2. Add powdered sugar: Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar into the butter and condensed milk mixture, mixing thoroughly until all sugar is fully blended to create a firm, sweet dough.
  3. Mix in nuts and fruit: Fold in the chopped pecans, sweetened shredded coconut, and chopped maraschino cherries, stirring until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the candy mixture.
  4. Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour or until it becomes firm enough to handle and roll into balls.
  5. Form balls and freeze: Roll the chilled mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1 hour to set the candy balls solidly before dipping.
  6. Melt chocolate coating: Melt the chocolate melting wafers together with coconut oil or shortening in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each interval to ensure smooth, lump-free chocolate.
  7. Dip candy balls: Using a fork, dip each frozen candy ball into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Tap off excess chocolate and place the coated candies back on parchment paper to allow the chocolate to set and harden fully.

Notes

  • Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier blending.
  • Drain and chop the maraschino cherries well to avoid excess moisture.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking when setting the candy balls.
  • Store the finished candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
  • You can substitute chocolate melting wafers with high-quality chocolate chips.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Candy
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

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Find it online: https://therecipeshome.com/old-fashioned-martha-washington-candy-recipe/