Coconut Mashed Potato Candy #SP5: A Sweet Family Tradition

The scent of vanilla and coconut always takes me back to Christmases at Grandma’s house. Tucked away in a tin amongst the peanut brittle and fudge were these little treasures – Coconut Mashed Potato Candies. I remember being utterly convinced that anything containing potatoes had to be savory, but one bite of these transformed me into a believer. The melt-in-your-mouth sweetness, the subtle tang of the potato, and that satisfying chocolate dip – pure holiday magic. It’s a recipe passed down through generations, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 12-24
• Yields: 24-36 candies
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 3⁄4 cup Simply Potatoes Traditional Mashed Potatoes, cold
• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
• 4 cups shredded coconut
• 1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla
• 4 ounces semisweet chocolate or 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped

Equipment Needed

• Large Bowl
• Waxed paper
• Cookie Sheet
• Double Boiler or Microwave-Safe Bowl

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes and confectioners’ sugar.
2. Thoroughly combine the mashed potatoes and sugar. Initially, the mixture will resemble a stiff dough. As the sugar incorporates with the potatoes, it will gradually loosen and become more pliable. This step requires a bit of elbow grease, but the end result is worth it!
3. Add the shredded coconut and vanilla to the potato-sugar mixture.
4. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be uniform in texture and color.
5. Using about 1 rounded teaspoon of the mixture for each candy, form the mixture into triangular peaks. You can also create small balls or other shapes if you prefer.
6. Place the formed candies on a cookie sheet lined with waxed paper. This prevents sticking and makes for easy removal later.
7. Let the candies dry for 20 minutes at room temperature. This allows them to firm up slightly before dipping in chocolate.
8. Melt the chocolate in a bowl set over simmering water, creating a double boiler. Ensure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until completely smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize up.
9. Dip the base of each candy in the melted chocolate. Gently tap off any excess chocolate.
10. Place the chocolate-dipped candies back on the waxed paper-lined cookie sheet.
11. Let the candies stand until the chocolate is set. This may take approximately 30 minutes at room temperature or less if you chill them in the refrigerator.
12. Store in a covered tin in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and texture.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Potato Perfection: Using cold mashed potatoes is crucial for the right consistency. If your potatoes are even slightly warm, the candy will be too soft.
• Sugar Selection: Always sift the confectioners’ sugar to prevent lumps in your candy. Lumpy sugar will make it harder to achieve a smooth, uniform texture.
• Chocolate Tempering (Optional): For a professional-looking shine and snap to your chocolate, temper it before dipping. Look up a guide to properly temper chocolate. It can be a little tricky, but well worth the effort.
• Flavor Boost: Experiment with adding a pinch of salt to the mashed potato mixture to enhance the sweetness. You can also infuse the vanilla extract with a cinnamon stick or a few drops of almond extract for a unique flavor profile.
• Troubleshooting: If your candy mixture is too wet, add a little more confectioners’ sugar. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of milk or cream, one at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
• Shape Shifting: Feel free to get creative with the shapes of your candies. Use cookie cutters to make festive shapes for holidays.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Coconut Mashed Potato Candies are best served chilled. Arrange them on a festive platter for a delightful holiday treat or package them in small gift boxes to share with friends and family.

To store, place the candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

These candies do not hold up well at room temperature for extended periods, as the chocolate may soften and the candy can become sticky.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	359.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	144 g	40%
Total Fat	16.1 g	24%
Saturated Fat	12.9 g	64%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	84.4 mg	3%
Total Carbohydrate	57.6 g	19%
Dietary Fiber	3 g	12%
Sugars	52.6 g	210%
Protein	2.1 g	4%

Variations & Substitutions

• Chocolate Variety: Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate. You can also add a swirl of peanut butter to the melted chocolate for a peanut butter cup effect.
• Coconut Toasting: Toast the shredded coconut lightly in a dry skillet before adding it to the mixture for a richer, nuttier flavor. Watch it carefully to prevent burning.
• Extract Exploration: Try different extracts in place of vanilla, such as almond extract, peppermint extract, or coconut extract.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts, to the candy mixture for added crunch and flavor.
• Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the candy mixture for a bright, citrusy twist.
• Vegan Option: Ensure your chocolate is dairy-free to make this a completely vegan treat.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use homemade mashed potatoes instead of Simply Potatoes?

A: While Simply Potatoes are recommended for their consistent texture and moisture content, you can use homemade mashed potatoes. Ensure they are very smooth, cold, and not overly wet.

Q: Can I use a stand mixer to combine the ingredients?

A: Yes, you can use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the candy tough.

Q: The mixture is too sticky. What should I do?

A: Gradually add more sifted confectioners’ sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture reaches the desired consistency.

Q: My chocolate seized up while melting. Can I fix it?

A: Sometimes, adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening to the chocolate while stirring vigorously can help to smooth it out. However, prevention is key – avoid getting any water in the chocolate.

Q: How long will these candies last?

A: Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these candies will last up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to a month.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. These Coconut Mashed Potato Candies are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a taste of nostalgia, a connection to family, and a reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected combinations create the most delightful results. Gather your ingredients, put on some holiday music, and create memories that will last a lifetime. And please, let me know what you think! I love hearing how these candies are enjoyed in your own homes.