Martha Washington Candy: 7 Irresistible Treats to Try

martha washington candy

By:

Julia marin

Oh, let me tell you about Martha Washington candy! This delightful treat is a nostalgic favorite of mine, blending the rich flavors of nuts, shredded coconut, and creamy chocolate into one irresistible bite. It’s named after the wife of George Washington, and I like to think she would have enjoyed these little bites of happiness as much as we do today. The best part? It’s a no-bake dessert, making it perfect for when you’re short on time but still want to whip up something sweet and special.

martha washington candy - detail 1

Every time I make Martha Washington candy, I’m reminded of family gatherings where these little gems would disappear in no time. The combination of the crunchy nuts and the sweet coconut, all wrapped up in luscious chocolate, creates a flavor explosion that is simply wonderful. Trust me, once you try making them at home, you’ll want to share them with everyone you know! So, let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on creating this delicious treat together!

Ingredients for Martha Washington Candy

To get started on making your own Martha Washington candy, you’ll need to gather a few simple ingredients. I promise, they’re all easy to find and come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 cups powdered sugar (this is what gives it that sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture)
  • 1 cup shredded coconut (make sure it’s unsweetened for the best flavor balance)
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (I love using pecans, but walnuts work beautifully too)
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened (this helps bind everything together and adds richness)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for that warm, inviting flavor)
  • 1 cup chocolate chips (you can use semi-sweet or dark chocolate, depending on your preference)

Once you have these ingredients ready, you’re all set to whip up some deliciousness! Trust me, the combination of these flavors will have everyone begging for more. Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to the fun part—preparing this sweet treat!

How to Prepare Martha Washington Candy

Alright, let’s get our hands a little sweet and sticky! Making Martha Washington candy is super simple and fun. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have these delightful treats ready in no time!

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, softened butter, and vanilla extract. I like to use a spatula to start mixing, but you can also use your hands for that personal touch!
  2. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want it to be a thick, dough-like consistency that you can easily shape into balls. If it feels too sticky, don’t worry; just add a little more powdered sugar!
  3. Now, it’s time to form the mixture into small balls, about one inch in diameter. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can use a cookie scoop for uniformity if you’re feeling fancy!
  4. Once all your balls are formed, pop the baking sheet into the refrigerator and chill them for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps them firm up, making dipping in chocolate much easier.
  5. While the balls are chilling, melt the chocolate chips. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or use a double boiler if you prefer a more controlled melting process. Just be careful not to overheat it!
  6. Once the chocolate is smooth and melted, take the chilled balls out of the fridge. One by one, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, making sure it’s fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing them back on the baking sheet.
  7. After all the balls are dipped, let the chocolate set at room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop them back in the fridge for a quicker set.

And there you have it! These little bites of joy are ready to be enjoyed. I promise, the combination of flavors and textures will leave you craving more. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family, or just keep them all to yourself—no judgment here!

Why You’ll Love Martha Washington Candy

Let me tell you why Martha Washington candy is a must-try in your kitchen! This little gem of a recipe checks all the boxes for a delightful treat. Here’s why you’ll be head over heels for it:

  • Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delectable bites ready to chill in no time!
  • No-Bake Delight: Who doesn’t love a recipe that doesn’t require turning on the oven? Perfect for hot days or when you’re just feeling a bit lazy.
  • Irresistible Flavor: The sweet combination of coconut, nuts, and chocolate is simply heavenly. It’s like a party in your mouth!
  • Customizable: You can easily switch up the nuts or the type of chocolate to suit your taste, making every batch a little different and exciting.
  • Perfect for Sharing: These little treats are great for gifting or bringing to gatherings. Everyone will be asking for your secret recipe!
  • Kid-Friendly: Kids love them, and they’re super easy to make together. A fun activity for the whole family!

Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become a staple in your dessert rotation. You won’t be able to resist their charm!

Tips for Success with Martha Washington Candy

Alright, let’s make sure your Martha Washington candy turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my best tips to help you achieve that sweet success and avoid any pitfalls along the way:

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. This helps everything blend together smoothly for that perfect texture.
  • Adjust Consistency: If your mixture feels too dry and crumbly, add a touch more melted butter or a splash of milk. If it’s too sticky, a little extra powdered sugar will do the trick!
  • Chill Thoroughly: Don’t rush the chilling step! Giving those balls time to firm up in the fridge is key for easy dipping in chocolate. If they’re too soft, they’ll just fall apart.
  • Melting Chocolate Tips: When melting your chocolate, be patient! Heat it slowly to avoid burning. Stirring frequently helps ensure it melts evenly and doesn’t seize up.
  • Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper; it makes transferring the candy so much easier and prevents sticking.
  • Variety is Key: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or even add in some dried fruit for a fun twist! Each variation can bring a new flavor profile to the party.
  • Keep an Eye on the Chocolate: Once you’ve dipped your balls, let them set at room temperature for a while, but don’t let them linger too long if your kitchen is warm. Chocolate can melt back into its gooey state!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making the most scrumptious Martha Washington candy! Happy candy making!

Variations of Martha Washington Candy

One of the best things about Martha Washington candy is how versatile it is! You can easily mix it up to suit your taste or the occasion. Here are some fun variations to consider that will keep your candy game fresh and exciting:

  • Nutty Delights: While I love pecans and walnuts, feel free to swap in your favorite nuts! Almonds, hazelnuts, or even pistachios can add a unique twist to the flavor.
  • Chocolate Choices: Experiment with different types of chocolate! Try using milk chocolate for a sweeter treat, or dark chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor. You can even drizzle white chocolate on top for a beautiful presentation.
  • Coconut-Free Option: If coconut isn’t your thing, you can replace it with crushed graham crackers or even finely chopped dried fruits like apricots or raisins for a fruity touch.
  • Flavor Infusions: Add a splash of flavored extracts like almond or coconut extract to enhance the taste. Just a little goes a long way in creating a new flavor profile!
  • Additional Mix-ins: Consider adding in a handful of mini chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles to the mixture for some extra fun and texture. They make the candy visually appealing and even more delightful!
  • Seasonal Variations: For a seasonal twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg during the mixing process, or incorporate crushed peppermint candy for a refreshing holiday treat!

With these variations, you can create your own signature version of Martha Washington candy that will be sure to impress your friends and family. Have fun experimenting and make each batch uniquely yours!

Nutritional Information for Martha Washington Candy

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of things! While I’m all for indulging in sweet treats like Martha Washington candy, it’s good to know what’s going into those delicious bites. Here’s a typical nutritional breakdown per serving, which is one piece of candy. Keep in mind, these are estimates, so your values may vary a bit based on specific brands or any variations you decide to make:

  • Calories: 120
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
  • Sodium: 15mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 2g

So, while you’re enjoying these little delights, remember they’re not just sweet but also have a bit of substance to them! They make for a fun treat, especially when shared with friends and family. Just a little moderation goes a long way when it comes to indulging in these tasty morsels!

FAQ About Martha Washington Candy

Got questions about your Martha Washington candy? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my answers to help you on your candy-making journey:

Can I use different types of nuts?

Absolutely! While I love pecans and walnuts, you can use any nut you fancy. Almonds, hazelnuts, or even cashews can bring a delicious twist to your candy. Just chop them up and mix them in!

How long do these candies last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your Martha Washington candy can last up to two weeks. But trust me, they’ll be gone long before that—if they last a day, you’re lucky!

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, definitely! These candies are perfect for making in advance. You can prepare them a few days ahead of an event or gathering. Just keep them stored properly in the fridge, and they’ll be ready to impress!

What if my chocolate seizes while melting?

Oh no, that can happen! If your chocolate seizes, try adding a tiny bit of vegetable oil or shortening to it, and stir gently until it smooths out. Just remember to melt it slowly to avoid this issue in the first place!

Can I freeze Martha Washington candy?

Yes! You can freeze these little delights. Just make sure they’re in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll keep for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Easy peasy!

I hope these FAQs help clear up any questions you might have about making your own Martha Washington candy. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more queries—happy candy making!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Martha Washington Candy

Now that you’ve whipped up a batch of delicious Martha Washington candy, let’s talk about how to store those sweet little gems! Proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and tasty for as long as possible.

First off, make sure to store your candies in an airtight container. This will help protect them from any unwanted moisture or odors in the fridge. I usually layer them with parchment paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together. Trust me, this little trick goes a long way!

You can keep your Martha Washington candy in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. However, if you’re like me, they might not last that long because they’re just too irresistible! If you want to enjoy them even longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped and stored in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay good for up to two months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen treats, simply take them out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. No need to reheat them—just let them come back to room temperature, and they’ll be perfect for indulging! So, whether you’re storing leftovers or planning ahead for future sweet cravings, these tips will keep your Martha Washington candy in tip-top shape!

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martha washington candy

Martha Washington Candy: 7 Irresistible Treats to Try


  • Author: Julia marin
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 pieces 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Martha Washington candy is a sweet treat made from a mixture of nuts, coconut, and chocolate.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, coconut, chopped nuts, butter, and vanilla.
  2. Form the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
  3. Chill the balls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
  4. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler.
  5. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate and place back on the baking sheet.
  6. Let the chocolate set before serving.

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Use any nut of your choice.
  • Substitute dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 15mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Martha Washington candy, chocolate candy, no-bake dessert

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.

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