Maine Potato Candy

Maine Potato Candy, also known as Needhams, is a delightful confection that hails from Maine, where potatoes were a staple of daily meals. This candy recipe showcases the ingenuity of using leftover mashed potatoes to create a sweet treat. Combining confectioners’ sugar, flaked coconut, mashed potatoes, vanilla extract, and a touch of salt, this candy is then coated in rich dark chocolate for a truly irresistible indulgence.

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 4 cups flaked coconut
• 3/4 cup cold mashed potatoes (without added milk and butter)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 pound dark chocolate candy coating, coarsely chopped

PREPARATION:

1. In a large bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar, flaked coconut, mashed potatoes, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. Line a 9-inch square pan with foil and butter the foil to prevent sticking.
3. Spread the coconut mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Cover the pan and chill it overnight.
4. Once chilled, remove the coconut mixture from the pan and cut it into 2-inch by 1-inch rectangles.
5. Place the cut rectangles on a baking sheet or tray lined with waxed paper. Cover and freeze the rectangles for at least 1 hour to firm them up.
6. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate candy coating in the microwave, stirring at 30-second intervals until smooth and fully melted.
7. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each coconut rectangle into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off.
8. Place the dipped candies back onto the waxed paper-lined tray and let them set until the chocolate coating is firm.
9. Once the chocolate has set, transfer the Maine Potato Candy or Needhams to an airtight container for storage.

YIELD:

This recipe makes approximately 2 pounds of Maine Potato Candy or Needhams.

PREP/TOTAL TIME:

Preparation time: 30 minutes Chilling time: Overnight Freezing time: 1 hour (minimum)

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Be sure to use cold mashed potatoes without any added milk or butter. Leftover mashed potatoes work well for this recipe.
• It’s important to chill the coconut mixture overnight before cutting it into rectangles. This step helps the candy hold its shape during the dipping process.
• Freezing the cut rectangles before dipping them in chocolate ensures they remain firm and easier to handle.
• Use a microwave-safe bowl for melting the chocolate candy coating, and be cautious not to overheat it to prevent burning or seizing.
• If desired, you can decorate the top of each candy with additional coconut flakes or drizzle melted chocolate on top before it sets.

TIPS:

• Store the Maine Potato Candy or Needhams in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for several weeks.
• Enjoy these candies as a delightful sweet treat or share them with friends and family during special occasions or gatherings.
• Consider wrapping individual candies in waxed paper or colorful foil wrappers for a more festive presentation.

In conclusion, Maine Potato Candy, also known as Needhams, is a unique and delicious confection that showcases the resourcefulness of using leftover mashed potatoes to create a sweet treat. This recipe combines confectioners’ sugar, flaked coconut, mashed potatoes, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to form a delightful coconut filling that is then dipped in rich dark chocolate. The result is an irresistible candy with a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

To make Maine Potato Candy, simply mix the ingredients together, spread the mixture in a pan, chill it overnight, and cut it into rectangles. After freezing the cut rectangles, dip them in melted dark chocolate and allow them to set before storing them in an airtight container.

These candies can be enjoyed as a delightful treat on their own or shared with loved ones during special occasions or gatherings. Their unique combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth. Feel free to wrap individual candies in waxed paper or colorful foil wrappers for an extra special touch.

Store the Maine Potato Candy or Needhams in an airtight container at room temperature, and they should stay fresh for several weeks. Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Maine classic candy and savor the sweet memories it brings.