old fashioned martha washington candy 

ingredients:

– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

– 2 lbs powdered sugar (about 8 cups)

– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

– 1 cup shredded coconut

– 1 cup dried cherries or maraschino cherries (drained and chopped)

– 16 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, melted (for coating)

instructions:

– in a large bowl, cream softened butter and sweetened condensed milk.

– gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until a thick, workable dough forms.

– fold in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, and cherries.

– roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

– freeze or refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.

– using a fork or candy dipper, dip each chilled candy ball in melted chocolate.

– let excess chocolate drip off, then place candies on parchment paper to set.

– allow the chocolate to firm up completely before serving.

– keep candies in an airtight container, refrigerated if your kitchen is warm.