Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy Recipe Everyone Will Love

Old-fashioned candies have a charm that modern sweets can’t replicate—and Martha Washington Candy is a shining example. Loaded with coconut, cherries, and crunchy pecans, then dipped in rich chocolate, this vintage treat is the definition of indulgence. Whether you’re making them for Christmas trays, Valentine’s Day gifts, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this nostalgic recipe deserves a permanent place in your dessert collection.

If you’re looking for festive inspiration, don’t miss our Cherry Snowball Cookies Recipe—a perfect pairing with these delightful candy balls.

Let’s explore what makes this candy so memorable, how to make it at home, and why it’s been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations.

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What Is Martha Washington Candy?

Origins and Old-Fashioned Charm

Martha Washington Candy dates back to early 20th-century confections, often associated with the Martha Washington Candies Company, a famous American chocolate brand. Though the company is long gone, this homemade version carries on the tradition. Popular throughout the Southern U.S., these candies were—and still are—a cherished addition to holiday dessert trays.

They gained popularity for being easy to make, using shelf-stable ingredients, and offering a rich texture that’s both chewy and crunchy. The candy’s legacy continues thanks to generations of home bakers who keep it alive through handwritten recipe cards and holiday traditions.

What Makes It Unique From Other Holiday Candies

Unlike simple chocolate truffles or peanut butter balls, this candy is a blend of multiple textures and flavors. You get:

• The tropical chew of sweetened coconut
• The nutty crunch from finely chopped pecans
• The bright pop of maraschino cherries
• All wrapped in smooth chocolate coating

It’s this combination that elevates it beyond typical no-bake treats. And while many candy recipes rely on heavy-duty kitchen gear, Martha Washington Candy is famously simple to make—no stand mixer required.

Why It’s a Must-Try Treat for the Holidays

During the holiday season, everyone’s looking for that perfect bite-sized indulgence. These candies check every box: rich, festive, colorful, and perfect for gifting. Whether displayed on a dessert tray or packed in holiday tins, they make a sweet impression.

More than just delicious, they carry the warmth of tradition. If you grew up enjoying old-fashioned candies at your grandma’s house, this treat will feel like a hug from the past.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups for another crowd-pleasing addition to your holiday spread.

Key Ingredients That Make This Candy Irresistible

The Role of Coconut, Pecans, and Cherries

At the heart of Martha Washington Candy are three unforgettable flavors:

Ingredient	Purpose in Candy
Shredded Coconut	Adds chewiness and subtle sweetness
Maraschino Cherries	Brings color, tang, and a nostalgic holiday vibe
Chopped Pecans	Contributes crunch and a rich, buttery taste

Coconut offers texture and pairs beautifully with the other components, while cherries and pecans turn each bite into a flavor-packed experience. Make sure to blot the cherries dry—excess moisture will ruin the consistency.

Choosing the Best Candy Coating

Chocolate coating is what seals in all the goodness. You can use Ghirardelli melting wafers, almond bark, or even high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips.

Tip: If using real chocolate instead of candy coating, temper it to avoid dull or streaky finishes.

Don’t miss our White Chocolate Dipped Maple Cookies if you love chocolate-covered treats with a twist.

Substitutions and Flavor Variations

Want to customize your batch?

• Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds
• Use dried cranberries instead of cherries for a tarter bite
• Add a splash of rum or almond extract for an adult version
• Coat in white chocolate for a snowy winter look

These little switches allow you to make this vintage candy your own while keeping the classic feel intact.

Discover great ideas like our Easy Strawberry Santa Treats for playful, kid-friendly holiday snacks.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Martha Washington Candy

Prep Work: Chopping, Draining, and Chilling

Before diving into the mixing bowl, prep your ingredients carefully:

• Chop the maraschino cherries finely—no large chunks.
• Blot them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This prevents your candy mixture from becoming too wet.
• Use sweetened shredded coconut, and if it’s clumped, fluff it up with a fork.
• Measure your ingredients precisely and melt the butter completely before mixing.

Once everything’s prepped, it’s time to bring the magic together.

Mixing and Forming the Balls

Here’s how to build the perfect filling:

1. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, chopped cherries, and pecans.
2. Stir until fully combined. The mixture will be thick and sticky—this is normal.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. The filling needs to firm up before shaping.

Once chilled:

4. Scoop out portions about the size of a walnut and roll them into 1-inch balls.
5. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Refrigerate again for 20 more minutes to set the shape.

Want more festive fun? Check out our Christmas Tree Focaccia Recipe—a savory hit on any holiday table.

Dipping and Setting for the Perfect Finish

Now for the most satisfying part: the dip!

1. Melt your candy coating or chocolate as directed on the package.
2. Using a fork or candy-dipping tool, lower each chilled ball into the chocolate.
3. Tap off the excess and place it back on the lined baking sheet.
4. Let the coating harden at room temperature or pop them in the fridge for quicker setting.

Tip: If you’re making a large batch, melt the chocolate in small batches to avoid it cooling and hardening midway.

Expert Tips for Success

How to Keep Your Candies from Melting

Avoid touching the candies too much during the dipping process. Always start with well-chilled balls and let the chocolate cool slightly before dipping—too hot and it may melt the filling.

When storing, keep in a cool, dry place or refrigerate—especially in warm climates.

Making Them Uniform in Size

For consistent results:

• Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the filling.
• Roll gently to form even balls—avoid pressing too hard or they’ll crack later.
• Want picture-perfect edges? Chill balls longer before dipping.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Santa Claus Macarons Recipe to add whimsy to your dessert table.

How to Package for Gifting or Storing

Martha Washington Candies are perfect for:

• Holiday tins with festive liners
• Cellophane treat bags tied with ribbons
• Mason jars for a rustic look

Layer with parchment between stacks to avoid sticking. Don’t forget to add a handwritten tag—this vintage treat deserves a personal touch.

Don’t miss our Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing for the perfect holiday menu balance.

Best Occasions to Serve or Gift This Candy

Holiday Trays and Cookie Swaps

These candies are a holiday MVP. Arrange them alongside cookies, bars, and fudge for a dessert platter that screams “grandma’s kitchen.” They hold up well at room temp and look beautiful on a table.

Hosting a cookie exchange? Martha Washington Candy makes a standout entry with minimal effort.

Valentine’s Day and Special Occasions

With those pretty pink cherry flecks inside, these candies are Valentine-ready. Place them in mini cupcake wrappers and serve with red ribbon accents. They’re romantic without being over-the-top.

They also shine at anniversaries, showers, or homemade wedding favors. Pure old-fashioned charm!

Year-Round Gifting and Celebrations

These treats aren’t just for winter.

Make a batch for:

• Mother’s Day dessert tables
• Birthday party gift bags
• Care packages or teacher gifts

The best part? You can freeze them and always have something sweet ready to go.

Check out our Holiday Jamaican Eggnog Recipe for a cozy drink to pair with these candies.

Storing and Freezing Martha Washington Candy

Room Temperature vs. Refrigeration

Once your candies have fully set, you can store them:

• At room temperature: in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Ideal if your kitchen is cool and dry.
• In the fridge: they’ll stay fresh a little longer—up to 3 weeks—and hold their shape even better.

Just be sure to place parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezer Storage Tips

Freezing is a great option for making this candy ahead of time:

1. Flash-freeze the chocolate-coated candies on a baking sheet for 20 minutes.
2. Transfer to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
3. Store for up to 3 months.

To thaw, place in the refrigerator or at room temperature (uncovered) for 1–2 hours. Avoid microwaving or placing near heat—chocolate may bloom or melt.

How Long Do They Last?

Here’s a quick guide:

Storage Method	Shelf Life
Room Temperature	Up to 2 weeks
Refrigerator	2–3 weeks
Freezer	Up to 3 months

Don’t miss our Jello Divinity Recipe for another retro candy with staying power!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion + Related Recipes You’ll Love

There’s a reason Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy has stood the test of time. It’s nostalgic, easy to make, and loved by kids and adults alike. With coconut, cherries, pecans, and a smooth chocolate shell, this candy is everything you want in a festive bite.

Whether you’re recreating grandma’s recipe or starting a new tradition, you’ll be glad you made a batch (or two). It’s a must-try for holiday trays, special gifts, or anytime you crave a vintage-style treat.

Don’t miss our festive Christmas Apple Cranberry Spritzer for the perfect holiday pairing!

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