Martha Washingtons
Martha Washingtons are sweet, coconut-pecan confections with a rich, chewy texture, perfect for those who enjoy nutty, sugary treats. Great for holidays and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients well.
- Chill the mixture.
- Form into small balls and chill again.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider toasting the pecans lightly before chopping them. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute the margarine with coconut oil. For a bit of extra sweetness, try adding a handful of mini chocolate chips. If you prefer a different nut, chopped walnuts work well too. These treats are similar to Coconut Pineapple Pies in flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet treats are delightful on their own but can also be served alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They also make a great addition to holiday dessert platters, complementing other favorites like Devil'S Food Pound Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once solid. Thaw them in the fridge before serving to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Martha Washingtons contains roughly 1096 calories, with 10g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 14g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?
Yes, sweetened coconut can be used, but it may make the treats overly sweet. If you choose to use sweetened coconut, consider reducing the amount of powdered sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.
How do I ensure the balls hold their shape?
Chilling the mixture thoroughly before shaping the balls is key to ensuring they hold their shape. If the mixture is too soft, you can chill it longer or add a bit more powdered sugar to firm it up.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe does not contain any gluten ingredients. Just ensure that the powdered sugar you use is certified gluten-free, and you can enjoy these treats as part of your gluten-free diet.
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).