Potato Candies

Prep: 20 min Serves: 16 Cuisine: American

Sweet potato candies with coconut and chocolate offer a rich, chewy treat perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or sharing at gatherings, combining tropical flavors and smooth chocolate.

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Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup cold unseasoned mashed potatoes
  • 4 cups confectioners sugar
  • 4 cups shredded coconut
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Mash the cold unseasoned mashed potatoes with the confectioners sugar until well combined.
  2. Work in the shredded coconut, vanilla, and salt (if using). Press the mixture into a shallow baking pan.
  3. In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the semi-sweet chocolate chips on High until just melted, about 2 minutes. Stir until smooth.
  4. Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the potato mixture in the pan.
  5. Allow the mixture to cool completely, then cut into squares.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, ensure the mashed potatoes are completely cold and free of lumps. You can substitute shredded coconut with finely chopped nuts for a different flavor. If you want a richer chocolate layer, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. This recipe is inspired by classic American recipes that bring a unique twist to traditional sweets.

Serving Suggestions

Cut the potato candies into bite-sized squares for easy serving. They make a delightful dessert alongside a cup of coffee or hot tea, especially when paired with a warm drink like Hot Cran-Apple Glogg. These treats can also be served at parties or holiday gatherings for a sweet surprise that guests will love.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover potato candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Avoid freezing, as the chocolate may not maintain its quality when thawed. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Potato Candies contains roughly 246 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

246 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2g 4% DV
Total Fat 20.1g 26% DV
Carbs 10.9g 4% DV
Fiber 5.4g 19% DV
Sugar 5.5g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 449.1mg 20% DV
Potassium 230.4mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 2mg 2% DV
Calcium 9.9mg 1% DV
Iron 1.5mg 8% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly High-fiber Under 400 cal

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 sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?

Yes, you can use sweetened coconut, but it will increase the overall sweetness of the candies. If you choose sweetened coconut, consider reducing the amount of confectioners sugar slightly to balance the flavors.

What can I use instead of chocolate chips?

If you don't have chocolate chips on hand, you can melt any chocolate bar or use white chocolate for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that whatever chocolate you use is suitable for melting.

How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when cutting?

To prevent the chocolate from cracking when cutting, allow the candies to cool completely at room temperature before slicing. Using a sharp knife and warming it slightly under hot water can also help make cleaner cuts.

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).

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