Needhams(Candy)
Needhams are rich, coconut-filled candies with a creamy potato base, offering a delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture. Their sweet, coconut flavor is complemented by a hint of vanilla, making them perfect for those who enjoy nostalgic, homemade confections or a unique treat for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare and cook potatoes to make 3/4 cup.
- Drain the cooked potatoes.
- Add salt and mash the potatoes.
- Melt oleo (butter); add mashed potatoes, shredded coconut, and confectioners sugar, and mix well.
- Turn the mixture into a buttered jelly roll pan.
- Spread evenly and refrigerate until the mixture hardens.
- Cut into squares and dip in coating (e.g., chocolate or confectioners coating).
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your mashed potatoes are completely free of lumps before mixing. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, consider using a dairy-free butter substitute and coconut cream instead of traditional butter. You can also experiment with flavored extracts like almond or coconut to enhance the taste. Additionally, for a more colorful presentation, try mixing in some finely chopped dried fruit.
Serving Suggestions
These Needhams make a delightful treat for gatherings or as a sweet addition to a dessert platter. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee and can be served alongside a fresh fruit salad like Instant Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider drizzling them with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch or serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Needhams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the squares separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator, and they will regain their texture without losing flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Needhams(Candy) contains roughly 1324 calories, with 11g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (83% of the Daily Value), potassium (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1022mg per serving (44% 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 instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes in this recipe for convenience. Just prepare them according to the package instructions to yield 3/4 cup before proceeding with the rest of the recipe. However, the texture may differ slightly from using fresh potatoes.
How do I make these Needhams gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour. Just ensure that the confectioners sugar you use is labeled gluten-free, as some brands may have cross-contamination. Enjoy this sweet treat without worry.
What can I dip the Needhams in besides chocolate?
Besides traditional chocolate, you can dip the Needhams in white chocolate or even a coconut-flavored confectioner's coating for a different twist. Sprinkles or crushed nuts can also be added on top before the coating sets for added texture and flavor.
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).