Maine Potato Candy (Needhams) Recipe

Maine Potato Candy, also known as Needhams, is a beloved regional treat that’s both rich in history and taste. This simple yet indulgent candy, with its creamy, coconut center and smooth chocolate coating, is surprisingly easy to make. The beauty of this recipe lies in its unexpected use of mashed potatoes, which makes for a perfectly smooth texture while keeping the sweetness just right. Ideal for any time you want to impress with a homemade candy, this recipe is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or even as a sweet snack for yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet & Creamy: The mashed potato filling makes for a velvety smooth center that pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate coating.
• Surprisingly Easy: Despite its fancy appearance, this recipe comes together with just a few simple ingredients and is beginner-friendly.
• Fun to Make: If you’ve never made candy before, Needhams are a great place to start! The process is fun and creative, and they’ll surely impress friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Maine Potato Candy are basic, but together they create a magical treat:

• Mashed Potatoes: This is the base of the candy. You don’t need a lot—just enough to form a creamy, thick consistency. It adds texture and helps the candy stick together.
• Powdered Sugar: For sweetness and structure. This helps bind everything together while adding the perfect sugary touch.
• Coconut: Shredded coconut gives the filling that wonderful chewy texture and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
• Chocolate: Use good quality milk or dark chocolate for the coating. The chocolate acts as the perfect outer layer, adding richness and depth to the sweetness of the coconut-filled center.
• Vanilla Extract: A little bit of vanilla adds depth to the flavor, bringing the candy’s sweetness into balance.
• Salt: A pinch of salt brings out the sweetness of the candy and enhances the overall flavor.

Variations

If you’d like to experiment with this classic Maine treat, there are plenty of ways to make it your own!

• Flavored Potatoes: Instead of plain mashed potatoes, try adding a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a little cocoa powder to the filling for an extra burst of flavor.
• Chocolate Coating: While milk chocolate is traditional, you can switch it up with dark chocolate for a richer taste, or even white chocolate for a completely different look and flavor profile.
• Add Nuts: If you love a little crunch, try adding chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the filling. They’ll add texture and make the candy even more special.

How to Make Maine Potato Candy (Needhams)

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Begin by boiling your potatoes until tender. Once cooked, mash them thoroughly, making sure there are no lumps. You only need a small amount of mashed potatoes—just enough to make the filling soft and smooth.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes with the powdered sugar. Gradually add the sugar until the mixture becomes stiff but moldable. Stir in the shredded coconut and vanilla extract until everything is evenly combined. The consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape but still soft and pliable.

Step 3: Shape the Candies

Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls or shape them into small logs. The size is up to you, but smaller candies are easier to dip into the chocolate coating.

Step 4: Chill the Filling

Place the shaped filling onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until firm. This helps the filling keep its shape when you dip it in the chocolate.

Step 5: Coat with Chocolate

While the filling is chilling, melt your chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts. Once the chocolate is smooth and melted, dip each potato candy into the chocolate, making sure to coat it completely. You can use a fork or toothpick to help with dipping.

Step 6: Let the Chocolate Set

Place the coated candies back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet and let the chocolate harden. You can speed up this process by refrigerating them for a few minutes.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Once the chocolate is set, your Maine Potato Candy (Needhams) is ready to enjoy! The result is a sweet, creamy, coconut-filled candy with a rich chocolate coating that will surely be a hit.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: You want the potatoes soft but not waterlogged. Overcooked potatoes can make the candy filling too wet, which may affect its texture and ability to hold together.
• Chill the Filling: Make sure to chill the mashed potato mixture before dipping it in chocolate. This will make the dipping process easier and prevent the filling from falling apart.
• Coating Consistency: Be sure the chocolate is smooth and not too thick, as this will ensure an even coat over the filling. If the chocolate seems too thick, add a small amount of vegetable oil to thin it out.
• Experiment with Toppings: After coating the candies in chocolate, sprinkle some extra shredded coconut on top or drizzle with extra melted chocolate for added flair.

How to Serve

Maine Potato Candy (Needhams) is best served chilled. You can display them in small candy cups or arrange them nicely on a platter for a festive touch. They make a great treat for holiday gatherings, family get-togethers, or just as an afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of tea or coffee. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve them alongside other homemade treats for a delightful dessert spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Maine Potato Candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks. The cool temperature helps the chocolate keep its crisp texture and prevents the candies from becoming too soft.

Freezing

Needhams can also be frozen for long-term storage. Just arrange the candies on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.

Reheating

These candies are best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat. However, if the chocolate coating feels a little soft after freezing, you can pop them in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up.

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly for this candy. Just make sure they are plain and free of butter or seasoning, as this can affect the flavor.

2. Can I make these candies with sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will give the candies a different, slightly sweeter flavor. Keep in mind that sweet potatoes have more moisture, so you might need a bit more powdered sugar to get the right consistency.

3. How do I know when the filling is firm enough to dip?
The filling should hold its shape when you press it gently. If it feels too soft, just refrigerate it for a bit longer until it firms up.

4. Can I make these candies without coconut?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of coconut, you can omit it entirely or replace it with chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for a different texture.

Final Thoughts

Maine Potato Candy (Needhams) is a fantastic and surprisingly simple treat to make, with a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and chocolatey flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned candy maker or trying it for the first time, these delightful confections will surely win over your taste buds. Try this recipe today and enjoy a little slice of Maine wherever you are!

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