Needhams
Dive into the sweet nostalgia of New England with this Needhams recipe, a classic Maine treat that combines unexpected ingredients to create a uniquely luscious dessert. The secret? A smooth and creamy filling made with mashed russet potato, sweetened shredded coconut, and indulgent powdered sugar, perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla. Encased in a silky layer of luscious dark chocolate, these bite-sized confections deliver a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience that's irresistibly decadent. With minimal prep time and easy step-by-step instructions, this homemade candy is perfect for gifts, parties, or an afternoon indulgence. Whether you're craving a taste of tradition or a unique sweet treat, these Maine Needhams are sure to delight!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 medium (about 6 oz) russet potato
- 1 cup (2 sticks, softened) butter
- 2 pounds (about 7.5 cups sifted) powdered sugar
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 0.25 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
Instructions
Peel and dice the russet potato. Place the potato pieces in a small pot, cover with water, and boil over medium-high heat until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Drain the cooked potato and mash it until smooth. Allow the mashed potato to cool completely before proceeding.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potato, softened butter, powdered sugar, sweetened shredded coconut, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients form a cohesive, sticky dough.
Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Press the coconut mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula or your hands.
Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for 1-2 hours, or until the mixture is firm.
Once firm, lift the coconut mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper (if used) and cut it into small squares or rectangles, about 1x1 inches in size.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil (or shortening) in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth and glossy.
Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully dip each coconut square into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess chocolate and place the coated square onto a sheet of parchment paper to set.
Repeat with all the squares, reheating the chocolate as needed if it begins to harden. Allow the chocolates to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator until firm.
Store the Needhams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy this classic Maine confection!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
236 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 10.9 g | 14% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.0 g | 35% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 14 mg | 5% | |
| Sodium | 52 mg | 2% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35.0 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 31.2 g | ||
| Protein | 1.3 g | 3% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 12 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 1.0 mg | 5% | |
| Potassium | 84 mg | 2% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
