Potato Candy: A Surprising and Sweet Treat That’s Perfect for Any Occasion
Potato Candy: A Surprising and Sweet Treat That’s Perfect for Any Occasion
If you love trying new and unexpected sweets, then Potato Candy is about to become your new favorite go-to treat. Yes, you read that right—this candy is made with mashed potatoes! While it may sound unusual at first, trust me, the combination of creamy peanut butter and smooth mashed potatoes results in a deliciously unique dessert that’s both indulgent and satisfying. It’s a nostalgic recipe that many of us remember from childhood, often shared by family members during the holidays or as a special homemade snack.
I first came across Potato Candy during a family get-together, and it’s been a part of my recipe repertoire ever since. The unexpected base of mashed potato gives this candy a smooth, dough-like consistency that pairs perfectly with the rich peanut butter filling. It’s an old-fashioned treat that’s simple to make and sure to surprise everyone who tries it.
There’s something comforting about these sweet little rolls—almost like a family secret passed down through the generations. It’s a recipe that feels both timeless and fresh, with just a few basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. If you’ve been craving a sweet treat that’s both nostalgic and satisfying, then look no further than Potato Candy. Let’s dive into how you can make this fun and surprising candy at home!
Potato Candy Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 large potato (about 1 cup mashed)
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2 to 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup creamy peanut butter
Directions:
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Boil the potato in its skin until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain and let cool completely.
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Peel the potato and mash it thoroughly until smooth with no lumps.
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Add vanilla extract to the mashed potato and mix well.
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Gradually add powdered sugar to the mashed potato, mixing continuously until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be firm but pliable.
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Roll the potato dough out between two sheets of parchment paper into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
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Spread the peanut butter evenly over the dough.
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Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough up into a tight log, using the parchment paper to help lift and roll.
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Wrap the log in parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
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Once firm, unwrap and slice into ½-inch thick pieces before serving.
Tips for Making Perfect Potato Candy
While Potato Candy is a pretty straightforward recipe, there are a few tricks to ensure it turns out perfectly every time. Here are my top tips to help you make the most of this sweet treat.
Use a Starchy Potato for Best Results
For the smoothest texture and the best dough consistency, opt for a starchy potato like a Russet. These potatoes mash easily and create a dough that’s firm yet pliable—ideal for rolling out into a neat log. Waxy potatoes, on the other hand, may create a dough that’s too sticky or difficult to work with.
Let the Potato Cool Completely
Once you’ve boiled and drained the potato, it’s essential to let it cool completely before mashing. Hot potatoes can be tricky to work with and may result in a dough that’s too soft or sticky. Give it enough time to cool so you can achieve the perfect texture for your candy.
Roll the Dough Gently
Rolling the dough out between sheets of parchment paper helps to prevent it from sticking to your rolling surface or your hands. Take your time and roll the dough into a nice even layer. The thinner you can roll the dough, the easier it will be to slice after you’ve added the peanut butter filling.
Chill Before Slicing
The most important tip to ensure your candy comes out looking beautiful is to refrigerate the roll before slicing. Chilling it for at least two hours allows the dough to firm up, which prevents cracking and makes for clean, neat slices when you cut through it.
Serving Suggestions: When and How to Enjoy Potato Candy
Now that you’ve made your Potato Candy, you might be wondering when the best time to enjoy it is. The great thing about this candy is that it’s perfect for any occasion! Here are a few ideas for when to serve it:
Ideal for Holiday Celebrations
Many families make Potato Candy during the holiday season, especially around Christmas and Easter. The sweet, peanut buttery flavor is a welcome treat after a big meal, and its rustic appearance makes it a fun and unique addition to any dessert table. It’s easy to make ahead and store in the fridge, so you can have it ready to serve when guests arrive.
Perfect for Afternoon Snacks
Looking for a mid-afternoon snack that’s not too heavy? Potato Candy is a great option. Its balance of sweetness and richness pairs well with a hot cup of coffee or tea. It’s just the right treat to satisfy your sweet tooth without being overly indulgent.
A Fun Dessert for Potlucks
If you’re heading to a potluck, make a batch of this candy to share! Its unusual base of mashed potato is sure to spark some conversation, and it’s a treat that both kids and adults will love. Plus, it’s easy to transport and can be made ahead of time.
How to Store and Freeze Potato Candy
If you happen to have any leftover Potato Candy (though I doubt that will happen!), here are some simple storage tips to keep it fresh:
Storing in the Refrigerator
Once the candy has been sliced, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. The cold helps the candy maintain its shape and texture, keeping it firm but still soft and delicious.
Freezing Potato Candy
For longer storage, you can freeze slices of Potato Candy. Just wrap the slices tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, simply place them in the fridge overnight or leave them at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make Potato Candy ahead of time?
Absolutely! Potato Candy actually benefits from sitting in the fridge for a couple of hours (or even overnight) to set. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to slice and serve.
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can. While creamy peanut butter gives the candy a smooth, rich filling, using chunky peanut butter will add extra texture and a more pronounced peanut flavor. It’s all about your personal preference!
Can I make this recipe without sugar?
If you’re looking for a lower-sugar version, you could experiment with using sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit. However, the taste and texture may differ slightly, so be sure to test it out before making a large batch.
How do I prevent the candy from cracking when slicing?
To prevent cracking, make sure to chill the rolled-up dough for the full 2 hours (or longer, if possible). The colder it is, the less likely it is to crack when sliced.
