Martha Washington Candy(French Bonbons)

Prep: 30 min Cuisine: French

Delicious French Bonbons with coconut, pecans, and vanilla, dipped in chocolate. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet homemade gift, offering rich flavors and creamy textures.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup oleo (margarine or butter)
  • 7 ounces flaked coconut
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 can Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk
  • 5 cups chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Melt the oleo (margarine or butter).
  2. Pour the melted oleo over the flaked coconut.
  3. Add vanilla and Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk; mix well.
  4. Add chopped pecans and mix thoroughly.
  5. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well half a box at a time.
  6. Pat the mixture out on a cookie sheet about 1 inch thick.
  7. Set in the refrigerator overnight to firm.
  8. Cut into squares, stick a toothpick into each, and dip into chocolate dip.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut instead of flaked coconut. If you're looking to reduce the sweetness, you can substitute some of the powdered sugar with cocoa powder. Ensure that your pecans are finely chopped to mix well with the other ingredients. If you want to experiment, try adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors, or even a splash of almond extract for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

These candies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside your coffee. Serve them on a festive platter or pair them with a glass of cold milk. They also make excellent homemade gifts, especially during the holiday season. For an extra festive touch, consider presenting them alongside treats from recipes like Make Your Own Christmas Ornaments.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Martha Washington candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you're planning to keep them longer, consider freezing the squares. To reheat, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, so they soften slightly and regain their texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Martha Washington Candy(French Bonbons) contains roughly 2177 calories, with 19g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 167g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (83% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 23g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

2177 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 19.3g 39% DV
Total Fat 167.1g 100% DV
Carbs 146.6g 53% DV
Fiber 23.1g 83% DV
Sugar 13.9g 28% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 64.5mg 3% DV
Potassium 1455.5mg 31% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3mcg
Vitamin C 1.1mg 1% DV
Calcium 117.5mg 9% DV
Iron 8.1mg 45% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Tree nuts

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 a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! While pecans provide a unique flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts if you prefer. Just be sure to chop them finely to ensure they mix well with the other ingredients and maintain the candy's texture.

What type of chocolate is best for dipping?

For dipping, semi-sweet or dark chocolate works beautifully, offering a rich contrast to the sweetness of the candy. You can also use milk chocolate for a sweeter profile, or even white chocolate for a different flavor experience. Just melt the chocolate gently to avoid burning it, and dip the squares while the chocolate is still warm.

Can I make these candies vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version by substituting the oleo with a plant-based butter and using a non-dairy sweetened condensed milk. Additionally, ensure that the chocolate you use for dipping is dairy-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious treat that fits a vegan diet without compromising on flavor.

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).

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