3 Simple Steps to Make Martha Washington Candy

In the heart of American confections lies a sweet, creamy delight known as Martha Washington Candy. Named after the first First Lady of the United States, this treat encapsulates nostalgia, elegance, and simplicity. Whether you're looking to surprise your family with a dessert, indulge in a homemade candy, or simply engage in a fun kitchen project, this recipe is perfect for you. Here, we'll guide you through 3 Simple Steps to Make Martha Washington Candy, ensuring you create a batch of sweets that could have graced the tables of Mount Vernon.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into the candy-making process, gather your ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 pound of confectioner’s sugar
• 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups of finely chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds work best)
• 2 cups of shredded, sweetened coconut
• 3 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¹⁄₂ bar of paraffin wax or 1 tablespoon of vegetable shortening

Additionally, you’ll need:

• A double boiler or a heatproof bowl that fits over a pot
• A candy thermometer
• Parchment paper
• Airtight containers for storage

Step 1: Preparing the Candy Filling

Creating the creamy filling is the heart of this recipe:

1. Cream Together Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add the confectioner’s sugar, beating well after each addition.
2. Incorporate Liquid Ingredients: Slowly mix in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until a smooth mixture forms.
3. Fold in Solid Ingredients: Stir in the nuts and coconut, ensuring everything is well distributed. This mixture will be quite thick.
4. Chill the Filling: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the mixture into small balls, roughly the size of a walnut, and place them on the sheet. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

🍬 Note: This step can be quite messy, so be prepared to get your hands involved. If the mixture becomes too sticky, chilling it for a short while before rolling can help.

Step 2: Dipping in Chocolate

This is where your candies transform from filling to full-fledged confections:

1. Melt the Chocolate: Set up a double boiler with water in the bottom pot and place the chocolate chips in the top. If using paraffin wax, add it now to help the chocolate set; otherwise, use shortening. Melt gently, stirring occasionally until smooth.
2. Coat the Balls: Once the chocolate is melted, use a fork or a dipping tool to dip each ball into the chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl.
3. Set the Candies: Place the chocolate-coated balls back on the parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle them with additional chopped nuts or coconut before the chocolate hardens.
4. Cooling: Allow the candies to set at room temperature or in the fridge for a quicker set.

Step 3: Storing and Serving

Once your candies are firm, they’re ready for the final stage:

1. Storage: Store your Martha Washington Candy in airtight containers, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last in the refrigerator for several weeks.
2. Serving: Present them at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy as a dessert, a sweet snack, or even as a thoughtful gift.

Your journey through making Martha Washington Candy not only offers a glimpse into historical American sweets but also a chance to bond over the joy of homemade treats. These candies are a testament to the simplicity and elegance of traditional recipes, providing a rich, creamy experience that melts in your mouth.

By following these three simple steps, you've crafted something timeless, something that would make even Martha Washington herself proud. Whether it's for a holiday, a special occasion, or just a treat for yourself, these candies are a versatile addition to any dessert spread. Their allure lies in their nostalgic charm and the joy they bring to those who taste them.

Can I make these candies without nuts?

+

Absolutely! While nuts add a delightful crunch, you can substitute them with extra coconut or another dried fruit like cranberries or raisins. The flavor profile will change, but the base recipe remains unchanged.

How can I store Martha Washington Candies?

+

Store these candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to several weeks. If you prefer to store them at room temperature, ensure the container is airtight to prevent the candy from becoming too soft or absorbing other flavors from the pantry.

What can I use instead of paraffin wax?

+

Paraffin wax helps the chocolate set with a glossy finish. If you’re avoiding it, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of vegetable shortening or coconut oil. It will change the mouthfeel slightly but still yield a great result.