Can I make these without coconut?

Yes! You can omit the coconut, but you'll need to increase the powdered sugar by about 1/2 cup to maintain the proper consistency. The texture and flavor will be different, but still delicious.

Why did my chocolate coating crack?

Chocolate cracking typically happens when the candies are too cold when dipped. Try letting the frozen centers sit at room temperature for 2-3 minutes before dipping. Also, adding a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to your melted chocolate can help prevent cracking.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Fresh cherries aren't recommended for this recipe as they contain too much moisture. If you prefer not to use maraschino cherries, dried cherries (chopped and soaked briefly in cherry juice or kirsch, then well-drained) would be a better alternative.

My mixture is too soft to form balls. What went wrong?

This usually happens when there's too much moisture or not enough dry ingredients. Make sure your cherries are very well drained and patted dry. You can also add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach a formable consistency.

Martha Washington Candy Recipe

This Martha Washington Candy is a true hidden gem – decadent, sweet, and utterly irresistible. With layers of flavor from cherries, coconut, and pecans all wrapped in chocolate, this no-bake treat combines the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. While it needs some chilling time, the actual hands-on preparation is surprisingly simple, making these delightful candies perfect for holidays, gifting, or simply treating yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Baking Required: These candies skip the oven entirely, making them perfect for hot summer days or when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these candies days in advance, making them perfect for holiday gifting or party planning.
Customizable: While the classic recipe is amazing as-is, you can easily adjust flavors and mix-ins to create your own signature version.
Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of creamy filling with chocolate coating appeals to almost everyone – these disappear fast at gatherings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Maraschino cherries: These add beautiful pops of color and sweet, fruity bursts throughout the candy. Make sure to dry them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
Butter: Creates a rich, smooth foundation for the filling. Use unsalted for better control of the overall sweetness.
Powdered sugar: Provides the sweet base and helps bind everything together without the graininess of regular sugar.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the filling. Pure vanilla extract provides the best flavor.
Sweetened shredded coconut: Gives the candy its distinctive texture and tropical flavor notes. The fine shred works best here.
Sweetened condensed milk: Creates that creamy, luscious texture that makes these candies so addictive. Don’t substitute with evaporated milk!
Pecans: Add a wonderful nutty crunch and flavor dimension. Toasting them briefly before adding enhances their flavor.
Chocolate coating: Almond bark or chocolate chips create the perfect shell. Select quality chocolate for the best taste and easier melting.
Sprinkles: Optional but add a festive touch for holidays or special occasions.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Flavor Swaps

Cherry-Free Version: If you’re not a fan of cherries, substitute with dried cranberries or simply omit them entirely.
Nut Alternatives: Replace pecans with walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts for a different flavor profile.
Extract Experiments: Try almond extract in place of (or alongside) vanilla for a more complex flavor.

Coating Options

White Chocolate: Create a beautiful contrast by coating with white chocolate instead of milk or dark.
Chocolate Drizzle: Dip in dark chocolate and drizzle with white chocolate (or vice versa) for an elegant finish.
Candy Coating: Use colored candy melts for holiday-themed versions (red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter).

Mix-In Ideas

Peanut Butter: Add 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter to the filling for a nutty twist.
Citrus Zest: Mix in orange or lemon zest for a bright, fresh note.
Crushed Cookies: Fold in finely crushed Oreos or graham crackers for added texture.

How to Make Martha Washington Candy

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

Coarsely chop the drained maraschino cherries. Pat them thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture – this is crucial for the right texture. Set aside.

Step 2: Create the Base

Melt the cubed butter in a large microwave-safe bowl, covered with a paper towel. Heat in 30-second bursts until completely melted. Allow it to cool to room temperature to prevent melting the sugar too quickly.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, coconut, sweetened condensed milk, chopped pecans, and prepared cherries to the cooled melted butter. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed. The mixture should be thick and somewhat sticky.

Step 4: Chill the Mixture

Refrigerate the mixture for 2 hours until firm enough to handle and shape. This chilling step is non-negotiable – it makes the difference between messy blobs and perfect candy balls!

Step 5: Shape the Candies

Using a 1 1/2 tablespoon cookie scoop, portion the chilled mixture into balls. Place them on a parchment or wax paper-lined rimmed tray. Work quickly to prevent the mixture from warming too much.

Step 6: Freeze Before Dipping

Place the shaped candies in the freezer for 30 minutes until firm. This crucial step ensures they hold their shape during dipping and helps the chocolate set more quickly.

Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Coating

While the candies are freezing, melt your chocolate or almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely smooth. Be careful not to overheat!

Step 8: Dip the Candies

Working with a few candies at a time (keeping the rest in the freezer), dip each ball into the melted chocolate using a fork. Tap your wrist gently to remove excess chocolate, then return to the lined tray.

Step 9: Add Finishing Touches

If using sprinkles or other decorations, add them immediately after dipping each candy, before the chocolate sets. Work quickly!

Step 10: Set the Chocolate

Refrigerate the dipped candies until the chocolate coating is completely set. This usually takes about 30 minutes.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Dry Those Cherries: Excess moisture from the maraschino cherries can make your mixture too wet, so pat them thoroughly with paper towels.
Temperature Matters: Keep the filling cold and the chocolate just warm enough to be fluid for the best dipping results.
Double-Dipping: For an extra-thick chocolate shell, let the first coating set for a few minutes, then dip again.
Test Batch: If you’re unsure about consistency, shape and dip one candy first as a test before proceeding with the entire batch.
Consistent Sizing: Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform candies that will set and coat evenly.
Clean Lines: For professional-looking candies, use a toothpick to touch up any imperfections in the chocolate while it’s still wet.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

Martha Washington Candy pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. For adults, try serving with a dessert wine or port for an indulgent after-dinner treat.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange on a tiered dessert stand for holiday parties
Place individual candies in mini cupcake liners for an elegant look
Create a dessert board with these candies as the centerpiece, surrounded by fresh berries and other complementary treats

Gifting

These candies make wonderful homemade gifts! Place them in decorative tins, small boxes lined with parchment paper, or cellophane bags tied with ribbon. Add a handwritten note with the name and a brief description.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store Martha Washington Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If your home is warm, refrigeration is recommended to prevent the chocolate from softening.

Freezing

These candies freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer in an airtight container with parchment between layers. They’ll keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

No reheating necessary! Simply thaw frozen candies by transferring them to the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Note: If storing in the refrigerator, allow the candies to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the optimal eating experience.

FAQs

Can I make these without coconut?

Yes! You can omit the coconut, but you’ll need to increase the powdered sugar by about 1/2 cup to maintain the proper consistency. The texture and flavor will be different, but still delicious.
Why did my chocolate coating crack?

Chocolate cracking typically happens when the candies are too cold when dipped. Try letting the frozen centers sit at room temperature for 2-3 minutes before dipping. Also, adding a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to your melted chocolate can help prevent cracking.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Fresh cherries aren’t recommended for this recipe as they contain too much moisture. If you prefer not to use maraschino cherries, dried cherries (chopped and soaked briefly in cherry juice or kirsch, then well-drained) would be a better alternative.
My mixture is too soft to form balls. What went wrong?

This usually happens when there’s too much moisture or not enough dry ingredients. Make sure your cherries are very well drained and patted dry. You can also add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach a formable consistency.

Final Thoughts

Martha Washington Candy carries that perfect balance of nostalgia and indulgence that makes a treat truly special. With its creamy, coconut-pecan filling studded with bright cherries and wrapped in smooth chocolate, it’s no wonder this recipe has been cherished for generations. While it requires some patience during the chilling steps, the actual hands-on time is minimal, and the results are absolutely worth it. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, these delightful candies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!