Martha Washington Candy

Name: Martha Washington Candy
Prep time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: about 5-1/2 dozen
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, softened; 4 cups confectioners' sugar; 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut; 2 cups chopped pecans, toasted; 6 cups semisweet chocolate chips; 1/4 cup shortening

Total Time Prep: 45 min. + chilling

Yield about 5-1/2 dozen

Test Kitchen Approved

Martha Washington candy is a nostalgic confection that’s been passed down for generations. Don’t let the word “candy” intimidate you! This confection is very easy to make, with zero fancy tools required.

Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened
4 cups confectioners' sugar
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
2 cups chopped pecans, toasted
6 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup shortening

Directions

In a large bowl, beat butter, confectioners' sugar, milk and vanilla until blended. Stir in coconut and pecans. Divide dough in half; refrigerate, covered, 1 hour.
Working with half the dough at a time, shape mixture into 1-in. balls; place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Refrigerate 30 minutes longer.
In top of a double boiler or a metal bowl over barely simmering water, melt chocolate chips and shortening; stir until smooth. Dip balls in melted chocolate; allow excess to drip off. Return to waxed paper. Top with additional coconut if desired. Refrigerate until set.
To Make Ahead: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts

1 piece: 196 calories, 13g fat (7g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 43mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.

Passed down by my grandmother and mother, this Martha Washington candy recipe is a cherished family tradition. We've even had each grandchild and great-grandchild take a turn stirring the candy mixture! —Cindi Boger, Ardmore, Alabama

Recipe Creator