Print

Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy

OLD-FASHIONED MARTHA WASHINGTON CANDY coated in chocolate with a colorful nut and cherry filling inside a red polka-dot wrapper.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Old-Fashioned Martha Washington Candy is a classic no-bake holiday treat filled with sweet coconut, cherries, pecans, and coated in smooth chocolate. Perfect for gifting or sharing year-round.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup butter, melted
  • 1 pound powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 14 ounces sweetened shredded coconut
  • 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
  • 10 ounces maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
  • 3 cups finely chopped pecans
  • 16 ounces candy coating (e.g., Ghirardelli melting wafers or almond bark)

Instructions

  1. Chop maraschino cherries into small pieces and blot dry using paper towels.
  2. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, chopped cherries, and pecans.
  3. Mix thoroughly until fully combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  4. Once chilled, form mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Refrigerate the balls again for 20 minutes to firm up.
  6. Melt the candy coating according to package instructions.
  7. Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, tap off excess, and place back on the lined tray.
  8. Let candies set at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate hardens.
  9. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.

Notes

  • Be sure to blot cherries dry thoroughly to avoid soggy filling.
  • Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized candy balls.
  • Chill the mixture before forming and dipping to ensure proper texture.
  • Can be stored in freezer for up to 3 months.
  • Layer candies with parchment when storing to avoid sticking.

Nutrition