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Martha Washington Candy Recipe

Martha Washington Candy Recipe


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4.6 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Sweet martha washington candy offers a nostalgic journey through classic southern confectionery. Creamy coconut centers dipped in rich chocolate create a delightful treat you can savor with memories of grandma’s kitchen.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cups powdered sugar

Nuts and Flavoring:

  • 2 cups chopped pecans
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Coating Ingredients:

  • 16 oz semisweet chocolate chips
  • 2 tbsp vegetable shortening

Instructions

  1. Prepare a large mixing bowl and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy candy removal and cleanup.
  2. Combine sweetened condensed milk and unsalted butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melting together over medium heat while stirring constantly until smooth and fully integrated.
  3. Remove the mixture from heat and gradually fold in powdered sugar, stirring vigorously until a thick, uniform dough forms with no visible sugar granules.
  4. Incorporate chopped pecans and vanilla extract into the mixture, kneading thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly throughout the candy base.
  5. Using clean hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into uniform bite-sized balls, placing them carefully on the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Chill the formed candies in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes to firm up and make dipping easier.
  7. Create a double boiler by placing semisweet chocolate chips and vegetable shortening in a heat-safe bowl set over simmering water, stirring until completely melted and glossy.
  8. Using a dipping fork or skewer, carefully submerge each chilled candy ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring complete coverage and allowing excess chocolate to drip off.
  9. Return chocolate-coated candies to the parchment-lined sheet and refrigerate for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chocolate sets completely.
  10. Store the finished Martha Washington Candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Notes

  • Keep ingredients at room temperature before mixing to ensure smooth, even blending and prevent lumpy texture.
  • Use a silicone spatula for easier mixing and scraping down sides of the bowl, reducing waste and achieving consistent candy texture.
  • Experiment with alternative nuts like almonds or walnuts for different flavor profiles and personalized taste experiences.
  • For gluten-free version, verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially powdered sugar and chocolate chips.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 168
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 20 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg