Description

Maine Potato Candy, also known as Needhams, is a traditional New England treat made with mashed potatoes, coconut, and coated in chocolate. Despite the unusual ingredient, the potato adds moisture without altering the sweet flavor.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1/2 cup mashed potatoes (plain, no seasoning)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 lb (about 4 cups) powdered sugar
2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
12 oz semisweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
Gradually stir in powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined and thick.
Fold in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed.
Press the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan and smooth the top. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until firm.
Once firm, cut the mixture into small squares and return to the fridge while preparing the chocolate coating.
In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt chocolate chips with shortening until smooth and glossy.
Dip each square into the melted chocolate using a fork, allowing excess chocolate to drip off.
Place the coated candies on wax paper or a cooling rack and allow them to set completely.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

Make sure the mashed potatoes are plain and not seasoned.
Chilling before cutting helps keep clean edges.
You can use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
These candies can be frozen for longer storage.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 120
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 30mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg