Needhams
Needhams are sweet, creamy coconut candies with a hint of vanilla, perfect for satisfying a nostalgic craving or sharing as homemade treats with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine and add mashed potatoes, shredded coconut, salt, and vanilla. Mix well.
- Pack the mixture into a buttered cookie sheet.
- Place in the refrigerator and let harden overnight.
- Cut into small pieces and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure your mashed potatoes are smooth and free of lumps. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, consider using coconut oil instead of margarine. For a flavor twist, add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon. If you don't have shredded coconut, finely chopped nuts can be a great substitute, though the texture will change.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the Needhams into bite-sized squares and serve them on a decorative platter for a delightful presentation. They pair wonderfully with a cup of Spice Or Holiday Tea Mix for a cozy treat. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside slow cooked B.B.Q. Pork Or Beef for a unique flavor contrast during gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Needhams in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They can last up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap. To serve, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the fridge for a couple of hours.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Needhams contains roughly 1467 calories, with 5g protein, 271g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (24% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1168mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of mashed?
Using fresh potatoes is possible, but you'll need to cook and mash them first. Be sure to let them cool completely before mixing with other ingredients to prevent the margarine from melting. This could alter the texture slightly, so stick to well-mashed potatoes for the best results.
Can I make Needhams vegan?
Absolutely! To make vegan Needhams, substitute the margarine with a vegan butter alternative or coconut oil. Ensure that the powdered sugar you use is vegan-friendly. The recipe will still yield delicious results while accommodating a vegan diet.
How can I add more flavor to the Needhams?
You can enhance the flavor by adding ingredients like almond extract or lemon zest to the mixture. Chopped dried fruits or nuts can also introduce a delightful texture and taste. Experiment with different extracts to find your perfect flavor combination!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).