Old Fashioned Martha Washington Candy

If you’re craving a sweet treat that feels like a cozy hug from the past, Old Fashioned Martha Washington Candy is the answer. This classic candy is a perfect blend of smooth, creamy filling wrapped in a rich chocolate coating—an irresistible combination that transports you back to simpler times. Every bite offers the perfect balance of sweet and nutty, with a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth. Trust me, this candy is a showstopper, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll find yourself whipping up batch after batch. Whether for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because you deserve a sweet moment, this recipe will have everyone asking for more.

Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Martha Washington Candy

• Nostalgic Flavor: This candy has a rich history, and every bite takes you back to a simpler time when candy-making was an art. It’s not just a treat; it’s a memory in the making.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your own twist! Love coconut? Add it! Prefer crunchy nuts? Toss them in. The recipe is flexible and perfect for making your own version of this sweet classic.
• Perfect for Gifting: Whether you’re packing it up for a friend, family member, or coworker, Martha Washington candy makes an incredibly thoughtful gift. It’s personal, homemade, and just plain delicious.
• No-Bake Recipe: Yes, you read that right! No oven required. Simply mix, chill, coat, and enjoy. It’s as easy as that!
• Decadent Yet Simple: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create something rich, indulgent, and seriously satisfying.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delectable candy:

• Powdered Sugar: This creates the smooth, soft texture for the candy’s filling.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: The sweet, creamy base of the filling that binds everything together.
• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: For a bit of crunch and nutty flavor. Feel free to use your favorite nuts or skip them entirely.
• Coconut Flakes: Sweetened shredded coconut brings that familiar coconutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavor, giving the filling a warm, comforting note.
• Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips work best for coating the candy. You’ll melt these to create that decadent chocolate layer.
• Crisco or Vegetable Shortening: To help the chocolate coating set perfectly and achieve a smooth texture.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into how to make this delightful candy!

Step 1: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, chopped nuts, coconut flakes, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined. It should be thick and sticky but still easy to shape. If the mixture feels too soft, you can add a little more powdered sugar until you reach the right consistency.

Step 2: Shape the Candy

Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out small portions of the filling and roll them into small balls (about the size of a walnut). Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray. If you want a more uniform shape, you can also form them into squares or oval shapes—whatever feels right!

Step 3: Chill the Filling

Once all the candy shapes are rolled out, pop the tray into the fridge and chill for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the filling firm up and makes it easier to dip in chocolate.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

While the filling chills, melt the chocolate chips and Crisco (or vegetable shortening) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Step 5: Dip the Candies

Once the filling has chilled and firmed up, dip each candy into the melted chocolate, making sure it’s completely coated. Use a fork or toothpick to lift the candy out of the chocolate, tapping it lightly on the edge of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate. Place the dipped candies back on the parchment-lined tray.

Step 6: Let the Chocolate Set

Allow the chocolate to set by placing the candies back in the fridge for another 30-60 minutes. This will help the chocolate harden and give the candies a smooth, glossy finish.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chocolate is firm, your Old Fashioned Martha Washington Candies are ready to enjoy! Serve them at room temperature or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for later indulgence.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 20
Calories per serving: 160
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 5mg
Sodium: 10mg
Total Carbohydrate: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 16g
Protein: 1g
Vitamin A: 2%
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 2%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve Old Fashioned Martha Washington Candy

• On Its Own: These little bites are perfect for enjoying on their own as a sweet treat.
• With Coffee or Tea: Pair them with your favorite hot drink. Their rich, sweet flavor is a perfect match for a warm cup of coffee or tea.
• Gift Them: Package them in cute little boxes or bags for a thoughtful homemade gift. Everyone loves a gift that’s made with love!
• Holiday Platters: These candies make an excellent addition to a holiday candy platter, alongside fudge, caramels, or truffles.

Additional Tips

• Nut-Free Version: If you have nut allergies or simply don’t love nuts, feel free to skip them entirely. The candy will still taste amazing!
• Coconut Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can leave it out or try substituting with chopped dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a different twist.
• Chocolate Coating: If you’re a true chocolate lover, you can dip these candies in dark chocolate for a richer flavor, or go for white chocolate for a sweeter, lighter option.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these candies ahead of time?
A1: Absolutely! These candies keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks, so they’re perfect for making ahead.

Q2: Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
A2: Yes! You can substitute the pecans or walnuts with almonds, cashews, or even hazelnuts. It’s a great way to customize the flavor.

Q3: Can I use non-sweetened coconut?
A3: It’s best to use sweetened shredded coconut for this recipe, as it helps to balance the sweetness of the candy. However, you can use unsweetened coconut if you prefer a less sweet candy.

Q4: Can I freeze these candies?
A4: Yes, these candies freeze beautifully. Store them in an airtight container, and they’ll last for up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Q5: Can I use a different type of chocolate for coating?
A5: You can definitely experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change depending on your choice.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Be sure to let them come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Q7: Can I skip the chilling step?
A7: It’s best to chill the filling to help it firm up, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it—just note that the filling may be a bit more difficult to work with.

Q8: Can I use a different sweetener instead of powdered sugar?
A8: Powdered sugar is key to achieving the smooth texture of the candy, so it’s not recommended to substitute it. However, if you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, you can try powdered monk fruit sweetener.

Q9: Do I need to use shortening in the chocolate coating?
A9: While the shortening helps the chocolate set perfectly, you can skip it if you prefer. Just know that the chocolate may harden a bit differently.

Q10: Can I double this recipe?
A10: Yes! Simply double the ingredients to make more candy. Just ensure you have enough space in the fridge for chilling, as you’ll need extra room for the larger batch.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Martha Washington Candy is one of those timeless recipes that brings joy with every bite. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy filling, and crunchy nuts is irresistible—and with its easy preparation, you’ll be whipping up these nostalgic treats in no time. Perfect for gifting, snacking, or simply indulging in something sweet, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves classic, homemade candy.

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