Heavenly Martha Washington Candy Recipe: Sweet Bliss in Bites!

Sweet clusters of chocolate-drenched coconut and pecans make Martha Washington candy a nostalgic treat that melts hearts.

This classic southern confection brings comfort and joy with every delectable bite.

Rich, creamy chocolate enrobes a luscious coconut filling that crumbles softly on your tongue.

Generations of home bakers have treasured this simple yet elegant dessert.

Pecans add a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the smooth chocolate coating.

Each piece tells a story of tradition and sweet memories.

Prepare to fall in love with this timeless candy that promises pure deliciousness.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients for Martha Washington Candy?

The main ingredients are softened butter, sweetened condensed milk, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.

• Is this recipe difficult to make?

No, it’s quite simple. You just need to mix ingredients in a specific order, beat until smooth, and fold in the nuts and coconut.

• Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

You can swap pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds, and use unsweetened coconut if preferred. However, maintaining the base ingredients is crucial for the candy’s texture and flavor.

• Do I need any special equipment to make Martha Washington Candy?

You’ll need a large mixing bowl, an electric mixer or hand mixer, and basic measuring cups and spoons. No specialized baking tools are required.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Calories: 159 kcal

Servings: 30

Martha Washington Candy Ingredient Breakdown

• Butter: Provides rich, smooth foundation for the candy's texture.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and helps bind ingredients together.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.

• Powdered Sugar: Creates smooth consistency and helps set the candy's shape.

• Shredded Coconut: Brings tropical sweetness and delightful chewy texture.
• Chopped Pecans: Adds nutty crunch and deep, earthy undertones for extra complexity.

Tools for Mixing and Dipping This Classic Candy

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining and mixing ingredients smoothly.
• Electric mixer or hand mixer: Helps beat butter, condensed milk, and powdered sugar to perfect consistency.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for folding in coconut and pecans evenly.
• Baking sheet: Used for placing and chilling candies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents candies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Measuring cups: Precise measurements for powdered sugar and other ingredients.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate amount for vanilla extract.

Make Rich, Nutty Centers Covered in Chocolate

• Whip Up the Base

Grab your mixing bowl and combine softened butter with sweetened condensed milk. Blend them together until they’re perfectly smooth and creamy, creating a luxurious foundation for your candies.

• Create the Dough

Pour in vanilla extract and start adding powdered sugar gradually. Keep mixing until the mixture transforms into a thick, slightly sticky dough that holds its shape like a dream.

• Boost Flavor and Texture

Gently fold shredded coconut and chopped pecans into the dough. Make sure these delightful ingredients are evenly distributed, promising a rich and satisfying bite in every piece.

• Shape and Chill

Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls using your hands. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and pop them in the refrigerator to firm up for about 30 minutes.

• Dip in Chocolate

Melt chocolate in a double boiler or microwave. Carefully dip each chilled candy ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring a complete coating. Let excess chocolate drip off before placing back on the parchment.

• Final Cooling

Return the chocolate-covered candies to the refrigerator to let the chocolate set completely. Once hardened, they’re ready to serve and enjoy as a decadent homemade treat.

Tips to Keep Candy Firm and Smooth

• Ensure butter is at room temperature for smoother mixing and easier handling of the candy dough.
• Chill the candy mixture for 30 minutes before shaping to prevent sticking and make rolling easier.
• Swap regular powdered sugar for a certified gluten-free version to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities.
• Replace pecans with toasted sunflower seeds or skip nuts entirely for those with nut allergies while maintaining the candy's delightful texture.
• Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the finished candies for an extra decadent touch that adds visual appeal and rich flavor.

Serve in Wrappers or Gift Boxes

• Festive Gift Giving: Package these delightful Martha Washington candies in cute holiday tins or clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons for a homemade treat perfect for Christmas gifts.
• Dessert Platter Perfection: Arrange the candies on a decorative serving tray with other holiday sweets like chocolate truffles and sugar cookies to create an eye-catching dessert display for parties.
• Cocoa Companion: Serve these rich, nutty candies alongside a warm mug of hot chocolate or coffee for a decadent after-dinner treat that complements the drink's warmth and sweetness.
• Gourmet Touch: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the candies for an elegant finishing touch that adds extra visual appeal and flavor complexity.

Store in Cool Spaces to Keep Fresh

• Store candies in an airtight container between layers of wax paper to prevent sticking and maintain freshness for up to 2 weeks.
• Keep Martha Washington Candies in the refrigerator at 40°F or below to extend their shelf life and preserve their delicate texture.
• Prepare the candy mixture up to 3 days before shaping and dipping, wrapping tightly in plastic wrap to lock in moisture and flavor.
• Wrap individual candies in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for long-term storage up to 3 months, ensuring maximum taste and quality when thawed at room temperature.

Irresistible Martha Washington Candy Recipe

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4.7 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 31 1x

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Description

Classic Martha Washington Candy brings southern charm to holiday dessert tables. Coconut, condensed milk, and pecans combine in a creamy confection that delights sweet-toothed guests with nostalgic flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs (900 g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 cups (160 g) sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 ½ cups (180 g) chopped pecans
• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 can (14 oz/397 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 24 oz (680 g) semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
• 2 tbsps vegetable shortening (optional, for a smoother coating)

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Instructions

1. Mixing Base: In a spacious mixing vessel, cream butter and sweetened condensed milk until achieving a silky, uniform consistency, then blend in vanilla extract thoroughly to distribute the aromatic essence.
2. Developing Dough: Systematically incorporate powdered sugar in incremental portions, creating a dense, cohesive mixture that can be easily shaped, then gently fold in shredded coconut and finely chopped pecans to ensure even dispersion of nutty and tropical ingredients.
3. Forming Candies: Using clean hands or a compact scoop, shape the mixture into small, uniform spheres, arranging them on a parchment-lined surface to rest and slightly firm up at room temperature.
4. Optional Finishing: Enhance the candies’ texture and visual appeal by rolling them in additional finely chopped pecans or dusting with a light coating of powdered sugar.
5. Chilling Process: Refrigerate the prepared confections for approximately 30 minutes to solidify their structure and intensify the flavor profile, creating a delectable Martha Washington Candy treat.

Notes

• Chill Ingredients: Ensure butter is at room temperature for smooth blending and easier mixing with condensed milk.
• Control Sugar Consistency: Add powdered sugar gradually to prevent a grainy texture and achieve the perfect dough-like consistency.
• Handle with Care: Use clean, slightly damp hands when shaping candy balls to prevent sticking and create smooth, uniform spheres.
• Store Strategically: Keep candies refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week, separating layers with parchment paper to maintain their delicate shape.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 31
• Calories: 292
• Sugar: 32 g
• Sodium: 12 mg
• Fat: 17 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg