Craving a taste of nostalgia? The Traditional Maine Needhams are a classic New England candy that perfectly balances sweet coconut filling with a touch of earthy potato — yes, potato! — all enrobed in rich, dark chocolate.
These creamy, chewy candies originated in Maine and have been cherished for generations as a homemade treat that’s simple yet irresistibly satisfying. Whether you’re making them for holidays, gifting, or just indulging in a homemade confection, this recipe delivers authentic flavor and texture every time.
Ingredients
Makes about 24 candies
For the Filling
- 1 medium potato (about ½ cup mashed, no lumps)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 (14-ounce) bag sweetened shredded coconut
For the Coating
- 12 ounces (340g) semisweet or dark chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smooth coating)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Chill time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potato
- Peel and cube the potato.
- Boil until tender, then mash thoroughly without adding butter or milk.
- Measure out ½ cup of smooth mashed potato and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Coconut Filling
- In a large bowl, combine mashed potato, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt.
- Mix until smooth, then stir in the shredded coconut until evenly incorporated.
- The mixture should form a thick, slightly sticky dough.
Step 3: Shape and Chill
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the coconut mixture and shape them into rectangles or squares.
- Place the shaped candies on the sheet and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until firm.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Coat the Needhams
- Using a fork or dipping tool, coat each chilled candy in melted chocolate.
- Place them back on the parchment-lined sheet and let them set completely at room temperature or in the fridge.
Step 6: Serve and Store
- Once hardened, transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Needhams as part of a holiday dessert tray with fudge, truffles, and caramels.
- Wrap individually in parchment paper and gift them in decorative boxes.
- Enjoy chilled with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Piece (1 Needham) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Protein | 1.5 grams |
| Total Fat | 8 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 22 grams |
| Sugars | 18 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 55 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Potato adds moisture and texture without extra fat.
- Coconut provides fiber and healthy fats for richness and chew.
- Dark chocolate brings antioxidants and depth of flavor.
- Can be made vegan-friendly by using dairy-free chocolate.
Tips for Perfect Needhams
- Make sure the mashed potato is completely smooth — lumps can affect the filling texture.
- Chill the coconut mixture before dipping to ensure a firm, easy-to-coat shape.
- For a thinner chocolate coating, add a little more coconut oil to the melted chocolate.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and glossy finish.
Variations to Try
- Almond Needhams: Add a whole almond inside each candy before dipping in chocolate.
- Mint Chocolate Needhams: Replace vanilla extract with a few drops of peppermint extract.
- White Chocolate Version: Dip the candies in melted white chocolate for a sweeter twist.
- Extra Dark Chocolate: Use 70% cacao for a rich, less-sweet finish.
The Traditional Maine Needhams are a timeless candy that blends humble ingredients into a truly luxurious bite. The smooth chocolate shell and creamy coconut filling — made extra tender with mashed potato — create a balance of flavors and textures that’s uniquely satisfying.
Perfect for gifting, sharing, or savoring slowly, these Needhams capture the heart of classic homemade candy-making with every delicious bite.