Martha Washington Cherry Creams
Martha Washington Cherry Creams are rich, creamy confections with a crunchy nut center, dipped in smooth chocolate, perfect for holiday treats or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix margarine, powdered sugar, condensed milk, and vanilla until well combined.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly.
- Divide the mixture in half.
- Stir chopped pecans into one half and coconut into the other half.
- Form each mixture into balls slightly larger than gumballs.
- Place the balls on a tray and freeze for 1 hour.
- Melt chocolate chips with paraffin in a double boiler until smooth.
- Using toothpicks, dip the chilled balls into the melted chocolate.
- Place the coated balls on waxed paper to dry.
- Store the finished candies in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can also experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds if you prefer. If you're short on time, you can skip freezing the balls and instead chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before dipping in chocolate. Ensure the chocolate mixture is smooth to avoid clumps when coating.
Serving Suggestions
These cherry creams make a delightful treat on their own but pair beautifully with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. Consider serving them as part of a dessert platter alongside other sweets like brownies or fudge. They also make a great addition to holiday gift baskets or party favors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the finished candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a month. To enjoy them later, no need to reheat; simply allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Martha Washington Cherry Creams contains roughly 504 calories, with 1g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 22g fat.
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 chocolate for dipping?
Yes, you can use white chocolate or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Just make sure to adjust the melting time as different chocolates can behave differently when heated.
Is it possible to make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These candies can be made several days in advance. Just ensure they are stored properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They actually taste better after a day or two as the flavors meld together.
Can I substitute the condensed milk?
While the condensed milk adds a creamy texture, you can use a homemade version with milk and sugar if needed. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream, which will complement the coconut in the recipe nicely.
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).