Description
Maine Potato Candy, also known as Needhams, is a traditional New England treat made with mashed potatoes, coconut, and chocolate. Despite the unusual inclusion of potatoes, these candies are sweet, rich, and deliciously smooth.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1/2 cup mashed potatoes (plain, no butter or seasoning)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 lb (about 4 cups) powdered sugar
- 14 oz sweetened shredded coconut
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate coating)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and thick.
- Stir in shredded coconut until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan. Smooth the top and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
- Once chilled, cut the mixture into small squares or rectangles.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with shortening (if using), stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Dip each piece into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place on wax paper or parchment to set.
- Refrigerate until chocolate is set. Store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Use plain mashed potatoes without any seasoning or butter.
- For best results, chill the coconut mixture well before cutting and dipping.
- You can freeze Needhams for longer storage.
- Vegetable shortening helps the chocolate coating become smoother and shinier.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg