I’m excited to share my special Potato Candy recipe with you. This sweet treat combines cool, smooth mashed potatoes with a sweet, powdered sugar dough and a creamy peanut butter center for a delightful surprise in every bite.
Level: Easy
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12–16 pieces
At first, it may seem odd to use potatoes in candy, but this recipe turns an everyday ingredient into an irresistible dessert. I love making Potato Candy because it’s simple and fun—no baking is required! Just mix, roll, chill, and slice to create a candy that’s both unique and tasty.
Description
In this recipe, plain, cooled mashed potatoes are mixed with sifted powdered sugar and a hint of vanilla extract to create a soft, pliable dough. I then spread a layer of smooth peanut butter on the dough before rolling it up like a jelly roll. After a good chill in the fridge, slicing the roll reveals individual pieces of candy that are both sweet and slightly nutty. It’s a creative treat that is sure to spark curiosity and delight among your guests!
Ingredients
• For the Dough:
o 1 cup plain, cooled mashed potatoes (leftovers work great or make your own by boiling or steaming potatoes without added fat or salt)
o 3 to 3½ cups powdered (confectioners’) sugar, sifted (plus extra for dusting)
o 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• For the Filling:
o ½ cup smooth peanut butter (or your favorite nut butter)
Directions
- Prepare the Potato Base:
o Ensure your mashed potatoes are plain and completely cool. They should be smooth without any lumps. - Make the Dough:
o In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes with 3 cups of sifted powdered sugar and the vanilla extract.
o Stir and knead the mixture until you form a smooth, non-sticky dough. If it feels too soft, gradually add more powdered sugar (up to 3½ cups total) until the dough holds its shape. - Shape and Fill:
o Lightly dust your work surface with extra powdered sugar.
o Roll the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
o Evenly spread the peanut butter over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges if desired. - Roll and Chill:
o Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, much like a jelly roll.
o Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling firms up the candy, making it easier to slice. - Slice and Serve:
o Unwrap the chilled log and cut it into ½ inch thick slices.
o Optionally, dust the slices lightly with extra powdered sugar before serving.
Process Details
• Mixing the Dough: I take care to blend the mashed potatoes and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth. This step is key to getting a dough that isn’t sticky and holds together well.
• Filling and Rolling: Spreading the peanut butter evenly and rolling the dough tightly ensures that each slice has a perfect balance of flavors and a neat appearance.
Tips for Success
• Keep It Cool: Always use mashed potatoes that are completely cool. Warm potatoes can make the dough too soft and difficult to handle.
• Add Sugar Gradually: If the dough feels sticky, add extra powdered sugar slowly until you achieve the right consistency.
• Chill Thoroughly: Don’t rush the chilling step. A good hour in the fridge will firm up the candy and make slicing much easier.
Serving Ideas
• Solo Snack: Enjoy Potato Candy as a unique treat on its own during snack time.
• Party Dessert: Serve it at parties as a surprising and fun dessert that will surely spark conversation.
• Gifting: Its charming appearance and delightful taste make it a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
Nutrition Info (Approximate per piece)
• Calories: 90–110
• Fat: 3–4 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15–18 grams
• Protein: 1–2 grams
I love making Potato Candy because it turns simple, everyday ingredients into a fun and unexpected dessert. With its smooth, sweet dough and rich peanut butter center, this treat is sure to become a favorite in your household. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and that it brings a little extra sweetness to your day!
