Family celebrations always spark cravings for certain treats. For us, it’s Martha Washington Candy. Every year, someone asks if I’m making it. It’s become a tradition, and honestly, the holidays wouldn’t be the same without it. What makes this Martha Washington Candy so special? It’s the creamy, sweet coconut filling, often enriched with bourbon, encased in a smooth chocolate shell.
It wasn’t always smooth sailing. I remember one year, the filling was too soft. The chocolate coating cracked. But I learned from my mistakes. Now, I make sure the filling is firm enough to hold its shape. The chocolate is tempered perfectly. This Martha Washington Candy has earned its place in our holiday rotation.
This recipe has been tweaked and perfected over the years to become a family favorite. The mix of textures and flavors is amazing. The subtle hint of bourbon takes it to the next level. It’s a simple enough candy to whip up, yet impressive enough to gift.
This Martha Washington Candy is more than just a sweet treat. It brings us together. It creates memories. It reminds us of family traditions. It is a staple in our home. I’m excited to share this recipe with you so you can bring joy to your family.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing Martha Washington Candy. Trust me, this ingredient list keeps things simple without sacrificing flavor!

- 4 cups powdered sugar: This is the base for our creamy filling. Don’t pack it when measuring!
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Real butter is best for that rich flavor. Make sure it’s softened, not melted, so it mixes well.
- 1/4 cup milk: Whole milk gives the best richness, but you can use 2% if that’s what you have.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and sweetness.
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut: Adds a delightful texture and flavor. My family prefers unsweetened.
- 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional): This adds a subtle kick! If you’re not a bourbon fan, you can substitute with a tablespoon of vanilla extract.
- 12 ounces chocolate, melted: Use your favorite chocolate for coating. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best.
- 1 tablespoon shortening: Adding this to the melting chocolate will give a smoother and glossier finish.
For the best Martha Washington Candy, I recommend using high-quality chocolate. It makes a big difference in the final taste.
You’ll find everything for this Martha Washington Candy at your regular grocery store. I usually stock up on the ingredients before the holiday rush.
This Martha Washington Candy is forgiving if you need to swap out an ingredient. For example, you can use almond extract instead of vanilla.
Here’s a Martha Washington Candy secret that makes all the difference: Make sure all your ingredients are fresh!
My family prefers when I use dark chocolate in our Martha Washington Candy. They say it balances the sweetness perfectly.
How to Make It
Here’s how to make Martha Washington Candy, step by step. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think!
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. This is the foundation of our creamy filling. Take your time to ensure it’s well combined.
- Gradually add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well incorporated. Be careful not to add the milk all at once. You want to avoid making the mixture too liquidy.
- Stir in the shredded coconut and bourbon (if using). Mix until evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens! The coconut adds a lovely texture. The bourbon adds a little warmth.
While your Martha Washington Candy is cooking, you’ll have time to clean up. This is a good way to make candy making less stressful.
- Shape the mixture into small balls or squares. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Aim for about 1-inch in size. This makes them easy to handle and coat with chocolate.
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This step is crucial. It prevents the filling from melting when you dip it in chocolate.
- Melt the chocolate with shortening in a double boiler or microwave. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. This ensures the chocolate melts evenly.
Here’s where I used to mess up my Martha Washington Candy – now I always remember to watch the chocolate carefully so it doesn’t burn!
- Dip each coconut ball into the melted chocolate. Use a fork or dipping tools to coat them completely. Tap off any excess chocolate. This is where the magic truly happens. The creamy filling meets the rich chocolate!
- Place the dipped candies back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Refrigerate for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
You’ll know your Martha Washington Candy is ready when the chocolate is firm to the touch.
This Martha Washington Candy typically takes me about an hour to make. This includes chilling time. It’s a great activity to do with the kids.
Don’t worry if your Martha Washington Candy looks a little imperfect. Homemade treats are always charming, and taste is what matters most!
Serving Ideas
Here are some serving ideas for your delicious Martha Washington Candy!
Everyone reaches for seconds when this Martha Washington Candy comes out with a cup of coffee after dinner. The creamy coconut filling and rich chocolate are the perfect complement.
This Martha Washington Candy is perfect for those nights when you want something really satisfying!
My family loves to have this Martha Washington Candy during the holidays. It’s a must-have on our dessert table. They also make a great gift for friends and neighbors.
For a festive touch, sprinkle some crushed peppermint or sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets. This adds a pop of color and flavor.
If there are any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about a week.
I’ve tried making this with different types of chocolate. Milk chocolate is sweeter. Dark chocolate offers a richer, more intense flavor. Semi-sweet is a good middle ground.
One year, I added a touch of almond extract to the filling. It was a hit! Feel free to experiment with different flavors.
Here is more about Holiday candy and cookie recipes to share.
I often get asked for the recipe when I bring this Martha Washington Candy to parties. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
This Martha Washington Candy reminds me of another family favorite, Magic Candy Recipe.
Your Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions about Martha Washington Candy! I hope these answers help you feel confident in the kitchen.
Can I make this Martha Washington Candy ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I often make it a day or two in advance. This gives the flavors time to meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What if I don’t have bourbon for my Martha Washington Candy?
No problem! You can easily substitute with an equal amount of vanilla extract or almond extract. The bourbon adds a unique flavor. The candy will still be delicious without it.
How do I store leftover Martha Washington Candy?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh for up to a week. The cool temperature helps the chocolate stay firm.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes! I’ve tried milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and semi-sweet chocolate. Each one offers a unique flavor profile. Choose your favorite!
What if my chocolate is too thick for dipping?
Add a little more shortening, a teaspoon at a time. Stir until smooth. This will thin out the chocolate and make it easier to dip.
Can I freeze Martha Washington Candy?
I don’t recommend freezing it. The texture of the coconut filling may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
My filling is too soft. What did I do wrong?
Make sure your butter is softened, not melted. Also, chill the filling in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before shaping it into balls.
For more recipe ideas, check out Pineapple Cowboy Candy.
The chocolate cracked after dipping. What happened?
This can happen if the filling is too cold. Allow the filling to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before dipping it in chocolate.
I’ve learned a lot from making this Martha Washington Candy over the years. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you!
If your family loves this, they’ll also enjoy Old Fashioned Gumdrop Nougat Candy.
Here is more information on what kind of holiday treats will you be making this year?
The Final Word
This Martha Washington Candy has earned its place in our family recipe collection because it’s simple, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s more than just a candy. It’s a tradition. It’s a memory. I truly hope your family cherishes it.
- Use high-quality chocolate: It makes a big difference in the taste.
- Don’t skip the chilling time: It prevents the filling from melting.
- Experiment with flavors: Add a touch of almond extract or peppermint.
I’ve tried several variations of this Martha Washington Candy with success. One year, I added chopped pecans to the filling. It added a nice crunch. Another time, I used white chocolate for the coating. It was a fun twist.
My son loves the classic version with semi-sweet chocolate. My daughter prefers it with dark chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt. My husband enjoys it with a shot of bourbon.
Martha Washington Candy is a treat that’s stood the test of time. This version is similar to this Old Fashioned Martha Washington Candy – Deep South Dish.

Don’t hesitate to make it your own. Add your own personal touch. Try different flavors. Experiment with different coatings. Most importantly, have fun!
I hope your family loves this Martha Washington Candy as much as mine does! I hope it becomes a cherished tradition in your home. Remember, the best meals and treats are the ones shared with loved ones. Don’t be intimidated by candy making. Dive in and create memories!
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Martha Washington Candy
These classic Martha Washington Candies are creamy, melt-in-your-mouth treats perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe combines simple ingredients for a delightful confection that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 36 candies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon shortening
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine powdered sugar, butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts, if using.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and shortening together in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Dip each candy ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely. Use a fork to lift the candy out of the chocolate and tap off any excess.
- Place the dipped candies back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
For a festive touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the dipped candies before they set.

