Martha Washington Buttercreams
Martha Washington Buttercreams are rich, smooth candies with a buttery flavor, enhanced by chocolate coating and optional nut or fruit add-ins, perfect for special occasions or gifting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter until smooth, then sift the confectioners sugar and beat into the butter until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing well.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 12 hours to firm up.
- Shape the chilled mixture into desired forms, optionally adding nut meats, Brazil nuts, or crystallized fruits.
- Melt the unsweetened chocolate and paraffin together over boiling water.
- Dip the shaped creams into the melted chocolate and paraffin mixture, then set on a buttered platter to harden.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming. If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the vanilla extract with almond extract. For a richer chocolate flavor, consider adding cocoa powder to the butter mixture. When shaping the creams, wet your hands to prevent sticking. You can also roll them in crushed nuts for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
These buttercreams make an elegant addition to dessert platters, especially during holidays or gatherings. They pair beautifully with coffee or dessert wines. For a delightful treat, serve alongside a slice of Chocolate-Raspberry Torte or include them in a gift box with other homemade sweets like Mom'S Date Cookies for a special touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the finished buttercreams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer them chilled, they can be refrigerated, but allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the consistency of the chocolate coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Martha Washington Buttercreams contains roughly 1234 calories, with 0g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1465mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chocolate chips instead of unsweetened chocolate?
Yes, you can use chocolate chips, but keep in mind that they contain sugar, which may alter the sweetness of the coating. Adjust the amount of confectioners sugar in the filling if needed to balance the flavors.
What can I use instead of paraffin?
If you prefer not to use paraffin, you can substitute it with coconut oil or shortening to achieve a similar consistency for the chocolate coating. Keep in mind this may slightly change the flavor and texture.
How do I make the buttercreams vegan?
To make these buttercreams vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative. For the chocolate coating, use dairy-free chocolate and skip the paraffin, opting for coconut oil instead to help the chocolate set.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).