Description
Maine Potato Candy, also known as Needhams, is a classic New England treat made with mashed potatoes, coconut, and chocolate. Despite the unusual ingredient, the potato gives a creamy texture without altering the sweet flavor.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1/2 cup mashed potatoes (plain, no seasoning)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 (16 oz) package powdered sugar (about 4 cups)
- 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening or coconut oil (for melting chocolate)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Gradually mix in powdered sugar until a thick, dough-like consistency forms.
- Fold in shredded coconut until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking dish. Flatten evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
- Once set, cut into small squares.
- Melt chocolate chips with shortening or coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth.
- Dip each square into the melted chocolate to coat and place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Let the candies set at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate hardens.
Notes
- Ensure potatoes are completely plain and well-mashed to avoid lumps.
- Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor.
- Store Needhams in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- You can freeze them for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 3mg