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Martha Washington Candy

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Martha Washington Candy is a rich, layered homemade treat featuring creamy nougat, chewy caramel, and a smooth chocolate topping with nuts. A festive, nostalgic dessert perfect for gifting or holiday platters.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (optional)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows or 1 cup marshmallow cream
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2–3/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
  2. Nougat Layer: In a large saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup corn syrup, and half the can of sweetened condensed milk. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Add 1/4 cup butter, vanilla, and peanut butter (if using). Stir in marshmallows or marshmallow cream until smooth. Pour into prepared pan and spread evenly. Let cool slightly.
  3. Caramel Layer: In the same saucepan, combine remaining sugar, corn syrup, and condensed milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture turns a deep golden color (soft ball stage, ~235–240°F if using a thermometer). Stir in 1/4 cup butter and salt. Pour caramel over nougat and spread evenly. Cool until just firm.
  4. Chocolate Layer: Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until smooth. Pour over caramel layer and spread evenly.
  5. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top and press gently into chocolate.
  6. Refrigerate 2–3 hours or until fully set. Use parchment overhang to lift candy out and slice into squares.

Notes

  • Use store-bought soft caramels melted with a splash of cream to simplify the caramel layer.
  • Add sea salt flakes on top for a sweet-salty finish.
  • Store layered pieces between sheets of parchment to prevent sticking.
  • Use a hot knife to slice for clean cuts.
  • Peanut butter is optional and can be replaced with other nut butters or omitted.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/martha-washington-candy/