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Print / PDFMartha Washington Candy
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- Prep Time
- 15 mins
- Cook Time
- 20 mins
- cooling
- 30 mins
- Total Time
- 1 hr 5 mins
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar (The base sweetness for our candy.)
- 2/3 cup light corn syrup (Adds a smooth texture.)
- 1/2 cup water (Helps in cooking the sugar mixture.)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (Provides creaminess and rich flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (Enhances the flavor and richness.)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Brings warmth and sweetness.)
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (For a delicious chocolate coating.)
- 1 cup roasted peanuts (Adds crunch and flavor contrast.)
Equipment
- 1 Heavy saucepan — For cooking the sugar mixture.
- 1 Candy thermometer — To check the temperature of the sugar mixture.
- 1 Double boiler — For melting the chocolate.
- 1 Parchment paper — For lining the baking sheet.
Method
- 1
In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- 2
Attach a candy thermometer and continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 238°F (soft ball stage).
- 3
Remove from heat and slowly stir in sweetened condensed milk, butter, and vanilla.
- 4
Beat the mixture until it begins to thicken and lose its gloss.
- 5
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, forming small rounds.
- 6
In a double boiler, melt chocolate chips, then stir in peanuts.
- 7
Spoon a little of the chocolate-peanut mixture onto each candy, allowing it to set.
- 8
Let the candies cool completely before serving.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Fat | 7g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Sugar | 15g |
Why You’ll Love This Martha Washington Candy
- It’s a delightful blend of creamy coconut and rich chocolate.
- Perfect for sharing during holidays or special occasions.
- Easy to make, even for beginner bakers.
- A nostalgic treat that brings back sweet memories.
- Customizable with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
Ingredients
Gather these delicious ingredients to create your own Martha Washington Candy, a treat that will delight your family and friends!

- 2 cups granulated sugar – the base sweetness for our candy
- 2/3 cup light corn syrup – adds a smooth texture
- 1/2 cup water – helps in cooking the sugar mixture
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – provides creaminess and rich flavor
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – enhances the flavor and richness
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – brings warmth and sweetness
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips – for a delicious chocolate coating
- 1 cup roasted peanuts – adds crunch and flavor contrast
How to Make Martha Washington Candy
Making Martha Washington Candy is a delightful experience that brings a touch of tradition to your kitchen. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes, cooking time of 20 minutes, and an additional cooling time of 30 minutes, you’ll be enjoying these sweet treats in no time!

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Step 2: Cook to Soft Ball Stage
Attach a candy thermometer and continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 238°F (soft ball stage).
Step 3: Add Creamy Ingredients
Remove from heat and slowly stir in sweetened condensed milk, butter, and vanilla.
Step 4: Beat the Mixture
Beat the mixture until it begins to thicken and lose its gloss.
Step 5: Form the Candies
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, forming small rounds.
Step 6: Melt Chocolate
In a double boiler, melt chocolate chips, then stir in peanuts.
Step 7: Top the Candies
Spoon a little of the chocolate-peanut mixture onto each candy, allowing it to set.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the candies cool completely before serving.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Extra Time | 30 minutes (cooling) |
| Total Time | 65 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 24 |
| Best Served | Chilled and enjoyed with family! |
Pro Tips for Making Martha Washington Candy
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Chill the mixture before rolling for easier handling.
- Experiment with different nut varieties for added texture.
- Coat the candies in chocolate while it’s still warm for a smooth finish.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.
How to Serve this Martha Washington Candy
- Enjoy as a delightful after-dinner treat with coffee or tea.
- Package in decorative boxes for thoughtful homemade gifts.
- Serve on a festive platter during holiday gatherings.
- Pair with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
- Use as a topping for vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can prepare and store Martha Washington Candy with ease:
Storing Martha Washington Candy Leftovers
- Place leftovers in an airtight container.
- Store in a cool, dry place or refrigerate.
- Consume within 1-2 weeks for best flavor.
Freezing Martha Washington Candy
- Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place wrapped candies in a freezer-safe bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Martha Washington Candy
- Let frozen candy thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- For a warm treat, microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- Enjoy at room temperature for the best texture.
Explore more easy breakfast recipes, quick lunch ideas, cozy dinner meals, tasty snacks, and delightful dessert.
Final Thoughts
Making Martha Washington Candy is not just about the delicious taste; it’s about creating sweet memories! This simple recipe is a delightful way to share love and joy with family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, get those hands a little sticky, and enjoy every bite of this nostalgic treat. Happy candy-making!
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers from the kitchen — storage, swaps, and common sticking points for this recipe.
Why are they called Martha Washington candy?
Does Martha Washington candy need to be refrigerated?
What is Washington state’s favorite candy?
Kitchen notes
Nutrition & sources
Calorie and nutrition figures on this page are estimates meant for general home-cooking guidance. Actual values vary with brands, portion size, and how the recipe is prepared.
Estimates draw on typical ingredient data from public nutrition databases such as the USDA FoodData Central. They are not a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice.
For how recipes are tested and when pages are updated, see How we test recipes. Full legal context lives in our disclaimers and affiliate disclosure.






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