Maine Potato Candy – Simple, Sweet, and Decadent

Also called Needhams, Maine Potato Candy is a common Christmas time tradition in the Northeast US. Part of the appeal of this holiday treat is the simplicity of its creation. The inner mix has a sweet coconut flavor that when solidified is dipped in a rich dark chocolate coating. Though called potato candy, the potato flavor does not permeate through, making this a unique and tasty method of using up leftover potatoes. Often given as gifts, this candy contains no peanuts or other nuts, making it ideal for friends and family who are unable to eat these foods.

Potato Candy Ingredients

¾ cup mashed potatoes (no butter, salt, or milk)
½ tsp salt
2 packages confectioner’s sugar (1 lb each)
1 stick butter
½ lb coconut (flaked)
2 tsp vanilla extract
12 oz semi sweet chocolate
4 oz unsweetened chocolate
½ cake paraffin wax

Instructions

1. Add salt to mashed potatoes, making sure it is well mixed in. Melt butter and mix with mashed potatoes, confectioner’s sugar, coconut, and vanilla. Again, mix well. Spread mixture evenly into a buttered jelly roll pan. Allow mixture to cool and harden.

2. Once candy is cool, melt paraffin wax in a double boiler. Add chocolate, stirring to ensure even melting and mixing.

3. Cut candy into squares or bars. Dip candy into chocolate mixture and allow the chocolate to drip from the candy before placing it on wax paper to harden. A toothpick may make dipping easier and less messy.
Yield: Approx. 66 candies.

Potato Candy Recipe Tips and tricks

1. If the candy does not seem to harden enough, place the candies in the freezer once cool. Continue as instructed once candy is frozen.

2. Other flavors of extract may be substituted for the vanilla, however measurements may vary. Use caution when making substitutions.

3. The entire block of paraffin may not be necessary. Less may be used if the mixture seems too thin. It can also be omitted, though this will cause the chocolate to take longer to harden.

4. Though a traditional Christmastime recipe, potato candy can be a sweet treat any time of year as it does not contain traditional holiday flavors.