Name: Martha Washington Candies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted; 1 pound powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 14 ounces shredded sweetened coconut flakes; 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk; 10 ounces maraschino cherries, chopped and drained (blotted dry with paper towel); 3 cups pecans, chopped; 12 ounces pink candy melts (extra ½ cup if making swizzle); 12 ounces chocolate candy melts (extra ½ cup if making swizzle)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 4 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat with a rich history and a flavor that dances on your taste buds, the Martha Washington Candies Recipe is your golden ticket. These luscious bites boast a creamy coconut and pecan center studded with juicy chopped cherries, all encased in a decadent chocolate shell. Think of them as heavenly coconut truffles with an irresistible creamy twist. They’re wonderfully easy to make, irresistibly rich, and perfect for sharing or savoring all to yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white round plate holds three small white bowls, each filled with round chocolate treats. The treats have two main looks: some are covered in dark brown chocolate with light pink zigzag lines on top, and others are covered in light pink coating with dark brown swirl lines. Around the plate, more of these round treats are scattered; some sit in white paper cases, while others rest directly on a white marbled surface. A white cloth with small black and red dots is partially visible beneath the plate. The overall look is neat and colorful with soft pastel pink and rich chocolate brown colors photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making your Martha Washington Candies come to life. Each ingredient plays a vital role in balancing flavor and texture, from the creamy sweetness to the satisfying crunch.

Unsalted butter (1 cup / 2 sticks): Melted butter adds a smooth, rich base for the candy center and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Powdered sugar (1 pound): Its fine texture blends effortlessly, creating the signature creamy sweetness throughout.
Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): A splash of vanilla brings warmth and depth to every bite.
Shredded sweetened coconut flakes (14 ounces): The star ingredient for that unmistakable coconut flavor and chewy texture.
Sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces): This luscious liquid binds the center together, adding creaminess and sweetness.
Maraschino cherries (10 ounces, chopped and drained): These bright bursts of fruity goodness infuse the candy with color and a touch of tartness.
Chopped pecans (3 cups): Offering delightful crunch and buttery flavor that complements the coconut beautifully.
Pink candy melts (12 ounces): Used for coating or decorating, adding festive color and a smooth finish.
Chocolate candy melts (12 ounces): The classic coating that envelops these candies in a glossy, decadent shell.

How to Make Martha Washington Candies Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Base Ingredients

Start by combining the powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, sweetened condensed milk, and shredded coconut in a large mixing bowl. Use a sturdy spoon to mix everything until the ingredients are fully moistened and the mixture is uniform. This creamy base is the heart of your candies, delivering that luscious coconut flavor and smooth texture.

Step 2: Fold in Cherries and Pecans

Next, gently fold the chopped, well-drained maraschino cherries and chopped pecans into the coconut mixture. The cherries provide vivid pops of color and fruity sweetness, while the pecans lend a pleasant crunch and nutty depth. Make sure everything is evenly distributed for the best balance in each bite.

Step 3: Shape the Candies

With clean, gloved hands, scoop out the mixture into small balls about two tablespoons each. The mixture will be sticky but still manageable. If you find this tricky, chill the mixture for an hour; this helps it firm up and makes shaping easier. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper as you go.

Step 4: Chill to Set

Pop your formed candy balls in the freezer for about one hour. This chilling step is crucial because it helps them firm up, making the dipping process smoother and ensuring your candies keep their shape.

Step 5: Prepare the Candy Melts

While your candies chill, melt the chocolate and pink candy melts separately. Using microwave-safe bowls, heat each for 30 seconds, then stir well. Continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring after each until melted and smooth. This gentle melting process prevents scorching and ensures a silky coating.

Step 6: Dip the Candies

Using a fork and spoon, dip each chilled candy ball into your chosen candy melt. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing the coated candy back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. For extra flair, drizzle the opposite color over each candy or sprinkle a pinch of shredded coconut on top. Once all candies are coated and decorated, return the tray to the freezer for 30 minutes to set the coatings firmly.

How to Serve Martha Washington Candies Recipe

The image shows round chocolate-covered treats, each drizzled with bright pink icing in a zigzag pattern on top. One treat is bitten, revealing a creamy white center with small red pieces inside. The treats are stacked in a white bowl placed on a white marbled surface. In the background, more similar treats are blurred but visible, some with pink coating and dark brown drizzle, keeping the pink and brown color contrast strong throughout the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These candies shine on their own, but a touch of extra decoration can elevate their appeal. Try a light sprinkle of shredded coconut or a drizzle of melted chocolate in contrasting colors for a beautiful, festive look. The garnishes not only add visual interest but also enhance the texture and taste with every bite.

Side Dishes

While Martha Washington Candies are a treat all by themselves, they pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, balancing sweetness with warmth. For a party, serve alongside fresh fruit or a mild cheese platter to contrast their rich, creamy nature.

Creative Ways to Present

For an unforgettable presentation, arrange these candies in a decorative box or on a tiered dessert stand. Wrapping each candy in colorful foil or placing them in mini cupcake liners can turn them into charming favors. They also make delightful handmade gifts that show care and creativity!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Martha Washington Candies fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will preserve their creamy center and crisp chocolate coating for up to one week, allowing you to enjoy them slowly without losing that perfect texture.

Freezing

If you want to make a large batch and save some for later, these candies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them into airtight containers or bags. Frozen candies maintain their flavor and texture well for up to two months.

Reheating

Since these candies are best enjoyed cold, reheating is generally not recommended. Instead, allow frozen candies to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This gentle thaw preserves their creamy texture without compromising the chocolate coating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries have a different moisture level and flavor profile, which can alter the texture of the candy center. Maraschino cherries are preferred because they are sweet, firm, and have minimal moisture, keeping the candy from becoming soggy.

What if I don’t have candy melts? Can I use regular chocolate?

You can use regular chocolate, but it may require tempering to get the right shine and snap. Candy melts are specifically designed for dipping, melting smoothly at lower temperatures and setting firmly without tempering.

Is there a way to make these candies nut-free?

Yes! Simply omit the pecans and consider adding extra coconut or a nut-free crunchy element like toasted seeds for texture. The candies will still be deliciously creamy and coconut-forward.

How long does it take to make Martha Washington Candies Recipe?

The active prep time is about 30 minutes, with a total chill time of around 1.5 hours. This timing ensures the candies set well and makes dipping much easier.

Can these candies be made ahead for holidays?

Absolutely! Martha Washington Candies are perfect for holiday prep because they store well and can be frozen. Making them ahead means less stress and more time to enjoy your celebrations.

Final Thoughts

The Martha Washington Candies Recipe is a treasure worth making again and again. With its perfect blend of creamy coconut, crunchy pecans, and vibrant cherries wrapped in silky chocolate, it’s a candy that feels both nostalgic and special. Treat yourself or someone you love to this delightful classic — I promise you won’t regret every blissful bite.