Martha Washington Candy is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a cherished tradition, a bite-sized piece of history that brings warmth and nostalgia to any occasion. This incredibly easy-to-make old-fashioned candy, bursting with the delightful combination of coconut, crunchy pecans, and sweet maraschino cherries, is an absolute showstopper for the holidays. Whether you’re assembling an impressive cookie tray for guests or looking for the perfect homemade gift, these exquisite candies are guaranteed to impress. Prepare to make them a festive must-have in your home, especially for Christmas!

Looking to fill your holiday season with even more delightful confections? Don’t miss out on other festive favorites like our whimsical Grinch Cookies, classic chewy Chocolate Crinkle Cookies, and irresistible homemade Toffee. Each recipe promises to add a touch of magic to your celebrations!

The Enduring Charm of Old-Fashioned Candies

There’s something inherently comforting and deeply satisfying about old-fashioned candies. They transport us back to simpler times, evoking memories of grandmothers’ kitchens and festive family gatherings. Martha Washington Candies perfectly embody this timeless appeal. They are a beloved staple in many households, especially during Christmas and Valentine’s Day, thanks to their remarkably simple preparation and unbelievably delicious filling. The harmonious blend of sweet coconut, earthy pecans, and vibrant maraschino cherries creates a flavor profile that is both rich and refreshing, making it an instant classic.

For me, Christmas Eve at my Grandma’s house was always a highlight, a treasure trove of laughter, family, and, of course, an insane amount of homemade candies. Each family member had their signature treat, and my Aunt Rene’s Martha Washingtons (or “Martha Washingtons” as we affectionately called them) were always the ones I anticipated the most. Their unique flavor and delightful texture stood out amongst all the other holiday sweets, becoming a cherished part of my childhood memories.

It’s this deep-rooted nostalgia that inspired me to carry on the tradition. These special, easy-to-make candies have now become a staple in my own Christmas traditions, loved by my entire family. We eagerly anticipate making them each year, not just for the joy of eating them, but also for the pleasure of sharing them as thoughtful homemade gifts, spreading that same warmth and tradition to friends and loved ones.

Why Martha Washington Candies Are a Must-Make Treat

What makes Martha Washington Candies truly exceptional? It’s their perfect balance of ingredients and effortless preparation. There’s simply nothing to dislike about these delectable treats and everything to adore. Imagine sweet, shredded coconut mingling with crunchy, robust pecans and juicy maraschino cherries, all artfully enrobed in a smooth, rich chocolate coating. Each bite is a symphony of textures and flavors, a truly indulgent experience.

This recipe is surprisingly generous, typically yielding around 5 dozen candies. While they are incredibly rich, making smaller, bite-sized pieces is an excellent option if you prefer a lighter treat or want to extend your batch even further. Whether you make them large or small, these candies are a fantastic addition to any holiday celebration, looking incredibly impressive on a festive cookie platter or a Christmas tray. But don’t relegate them solely to the winter months; these delightful candies deserve to be enjoyed year-round! They are especially fantastic for Valentine’s Day, making a thoughtful and delicious gift for your sweethearts.

Versatility and Customization: Beyond the Classic

While the classic combination of coconut, pecans, and cherries is undeniably perfect, Martha Washington Candies offer wonderful opportunities for customization. Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a varied crunch. Dried cranberries or candied orange peel can replace or complement the cherries for a different flavor profile. You can also play with the chocolate coating – dark chocolate adds a sophisticated bitterness, while white chocolate offers a creamy contrast. A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets can elevate the flavors even further, creating a gourmet touch.

Essential Ingredients for Your Martha Washington Candies

One of the many beauties of this Martha Washington Candy recipe is its reliance on readily available pantry staples, making it accessible for any home baker. Gathering your ingredients is the first simple step towards creating these irresistible confections. As always, you’ll find the complete printable recipe with detailed instructions in the recipe card at the end of this post. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Butter: Melted butter is crucial here, as it helps all the ingredients combine smoothly and creates the rich, foundational texture of the candy base.
• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this fine sugar is essential for achieving the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency of the candy filling. Its fine texture prevents any grittiness.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of pure vanilla extract enhances all the other flavors, adding a warm, aromatic depth that makes the candy truly special.
• Shredded Coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut is recommended for its moistness and flavor. It provides the distinct texture and tropical essence that defines Martha Washington Candies.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is a key binding agent and contributes significantly to the candy’s sweetness and creamy texture. Be sure to use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk, as they are very different in composition and will yield vastly different results.
• Maraschino Cherries: The bright red hue and sweet, slightly almondy flavor of maraschino cherries are iconic in this recipe. It is absolutely crucial that the cherries are very well drained, finely chopped, and then blotted thoroughly dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can make your candy filling too soft and difficult to form. Pro Tip: Don’t discard that cherry juice! Save it to make an amazing Cherry Frosting for another delicious treat.
• Chopped Pecans: Finely chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and a rich, buttery flavor that complements the coconut and cherries perfectly. If you have dietary restrictions or simply prefer other nuts, walnuts or almonds can be excellent substitutes.
• Candy Coating: For the best results and ease of dipping, a high-quality candy coating is recommended. Ghirardelli melting wafers are a fantastic choice, known for their smooth consistency and easy melting properties. However, any good quality candy coating or almond bark will work beautifully to create that shiny, protective chocolate shell.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Martha Washington Candies

Making these classic candies is surprisingly straightforward, and you won’t even need a stand mixer! The process is designed to be enjoyable and yields truly impressive results. Here’s a detailed look at each simple step:

1. Prepare the Cherries: This is a critical first step. Start by draining your maraschino cherries thoroughly. Once drained, chop them into very small, uniform pieces. Spread the chopped cherries onto a layer of paper towels and then gently blot them dry with additional paper towels. Removing as much moisture as possible will prevent your candy filling from becoming sticky or runny, ensuring perfectly shaped candies.
2. Combine the Filling Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, the now-dry chopped maraschino cherries, and finely chopped pecans. Stir all the ingredients together vigorously with a sturdy spoon or spatula until everything is thoroughly combined and a thick, cohesive mixture forms. This will require a bit of arm work, but it’s worth it!
3. Chill the Mixture: Once your filling mixture is uniform, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least two hours. Ideally, you can chill it for even longer, or even overnight. The colder the filling, the easier it will be to roll into balls and the quicker your chocolate coating will set up later. Don’t skip this chilling step!
4. Form the Candy Balls: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Once the filling is firm and chilled, scoop out small portions and roll them into uniform balls, roughly the size of a walnut or about 1 inch in diameter. Consistency in size will ensure even coating and a professional appearance. Place the formed balls onto the prepared baking sheet. Once all the balls are rolled, return the baking sheet to the refrigerator for an additional 20 minutes to firm them up further.
5. Melt the Candy Coating: While your candy balls are chilling for the second time, prepare your candy coating. Follow the package directions carefully for melting your chosen candy wafers or almond bark. Whether you use a microwave or a double boiler, ensure the chocolate is smooth, lump-free, and at the correct dipping consistency.
6. Dip into Chocolate: This is where the magic happens! Using candy dipping tools (which are highly recommended for making this step infinitely easier and your candies much prettier), or simply a fork, carefully dip each chilled candy ball into the melted chocolate. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off thoroughly before placing the dipped candy back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Removing as much excess as possible prevents pooling at the bottom, which would require trimming later for a neater look.
7. Allow to Set: Continue dipping until all your Martha Washington Candies are beautifully coated. Let the chocolate set and harden completely. This can be done at room temperature in a cool, dry place, or more quickly in the refrigerator. Once hardened, they are ready to be enjoyed or stored.

Frequently Asked Questions About Martha Washington Candies

What makes this candy “old-fashioned”?

Martha Washington Candies are considered old-fashioned due to their classic combination of simple, wholesome ingredients (coconut, pecans, cherries, powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk) and their traditional preparation method, which relies on hand-forming and dipping rather than complex machinery. Recipes like this have been passed down through generations, becoming beloved holiday staples for their nostalgic charm and delicious taste.

Can I use different nuts or dried fruits?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, feel free to substitute them with other finely chopped nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even a mix. For dried fruits, alternatives to maraschino cherries could include finely chopped dried cranberries, golden raisins, or candied citrus peel. Just ensure any dried fruits are soft and chopped small for best integration into the mixture.

What’s the best way to melt the candy coating?

The easiest methods are using a microwave or a double boiler. For the microwave, heat candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl at 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat, which can cause the chocolate to seize. A double boiler offers a gentler, more controlled melting process, preventing burning. Always follow the specific package instructions for your chosen candy coating.

How long do Martha Washington Candies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Martha Washington Candies can last for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or in the refrigerator. For longer storage, they can be frozen (see storage tips below).

Can I freeze Martha Washington Candies?

Yes, these candies freeze beautifully! See the detailed storage instructions below for the best way to freeze and thaw them to maintain their quality and flavor.

Storage Information for Peak Freshness

Proper storage is key to keeping your homemade Martha Washington Candies fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s how to ensure they maintain their perfect texture and flavor:

• Room Temperature or Refrigerator: Once the chocolate coating has fully set, transfer your candies to an airtight container. They can be stored at cool room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If stacking layers, place parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
• To Freeze: For extended storage, Martha Washington Candies freeze exceptionally well. First, flash freeze the individual candy balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20-30 minutes, or until they are firm. This prevents them from sticking together. Once firm, transfer the frozen candies to a freezer-safe ziploc bag or an airtight freezer container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the candies at room temperature or in the refrigerator until softened.

More Irresistible Holiday Candy Recipes

The holiday season is synonymous with sharing and indulging in sweet treats! If you’ve loved making these Martha Washington Candies, you’ll surely enjoy exploring more of our favorite festive confections. They are perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or simply treating yourself and your family.

1. Christmas Crack Recipe: An addictively easy and popular sweet and salty treat.
2. Classic Toffee: Rich, buttery, and incredibly satisfying.
3. Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Balls with Rice Krispies: A delightful combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and crunch.
4. Chocolate Pretzel Peanut Butter Balls: Sweet, salty, and wonderfully addictive.
5. The Best Divinity Candy: A light, airy, and elegant old-fashioned confection.
6. Maple Nut Fudge: Creamy, rich, and full of delicious maple and nutty flavors.
7. Outrageous Peanut Butter M&Ms Fudge: A fun and colorful fudge that’s a hit with all ages.
8. Practically Perfect Peppermint Fudge: A festive and refreshing fudge, ideal for winter holidays.
9. Buttermilk Pecan Pralines: Southern comfort in a sweet, crunchy bite.
10. Homemade Gumdrops: Chewy, fruity, and a joy to make.

Martha Washington Candies Recipe Card

Originally published December 8, 2014, this classic recipe continues to delight families and spread holiday cheer year after year. We hope you enjoy making and sharing these wonderful Martha Washington Candies as much as we do!