If you’re looking for a nostalgic treat that’s both sweet and delightfully unique, this Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe is just the thing to brighten your day. Combining the unexpected ingredient of potato with creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar, it creates a soft, melt-in-your-mouth candy roll that’s been a beloved classic for generations. Simple to make yet full of rich flavors and charming texture, this recipe brings a comforting old-world charm right to your kitchen. Trust me, once you try this, it’s bound to become a new favorite for sharing with family and friends during cozy afternoons or festive occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is crucial, but you’ll be happy to know this Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe calls for straightforward pantry staples. Each one plays its part to deliver that creamy texture, sweet flavor, and subtle earthy richness that sets this candy apart from ordinary sweets.
- Medium potato, peeled and sliced: Provides a smooth, starchy base that gives the candy its soft, pliable texture without overpowering flavor.
- Real butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and a luscious mouthfeel to the candy mixture.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the overall flavor.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, inviting aroma and subtle sweetness that complements both potato and peanut butter.
- Powdered sugar (2 pounds, plus more for rolling): The key sweetener and thickening agent that transforms the mashed potato base into candy dough.
- Jar of creamy peanut butter (16 ounces): The luscious filling that pairs perfectly with the sweet potato dough, bringing creamy, nutty contrast.
How to Make Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potato Until Tender
Start by peeling and slicing your potato into even pieces to ensure it cooks uniformly. Place them in a small pan filled with water and boil gently until the potato is very tender and easily mashed. This step is essential because the potato needs to be soft enough to blend smoothly without lumps. Once cooked, drain off the water completely to avoid adding unwanted moisture to your candy dough.
Step 2: Mash the Potato with Butter, Vanilla, and Salt
While the potato is still warm, mash it thoroughly with the butter, vanilla extract, and just a pinch of salt. The warmth helps the butter melt into the mixture, creating a silky base that will hold together beautifully when you add the powdered sugar. This combination adds subtle richness and depth to your candy, ensuring it’s never bland or dry.
Step 3: Gradually Add Powdered Sugar
Begin adding the powdered sugar bit by bit, mixing on a low speed or stirring by hand if you prefer. This slow incorporation helps you achieve the perfect consistency — thick, slightly sticky, and workable without being crumbly. If you add the sugar too quickly, the mixture might become too stiff, so patience is key here to get that ideal candy texture.
Step 4: Roll Out the Candy Mixture
Sprinkle a clean surface generously with powdered sugar and roll out your candy dough to about a quarter-inch thickness. This thin, even layer is crucial because it allows the candy to hold its shape while still being tender and easy to slice. Use a rolling pin dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and keep the candy smooth.
Step 5: Spread the Peanut Butter Layer
It’s time to add the creamy peanut butter! Spread a thin layer evenly over the rolled-out dough, making sure to leave a small border at the edges so the candy can seal properly when rolled. Peanut butter adds that irresistible flavor and a luxurious texture contrast that turns this candy from simple to sensational.
Step 6: Roll, Chill, and Slice
Carefully roll up the candy starting from one edge, creating a tight spiral with the peanut butter nestled inside. Once rolled, place it in the freezer for a short chill — this firms up the candy and makes it much easier to slice neatly. Finally, cut the roll into small pieces, each a perfect bite-size treat that reveals the pretty swirl of peanut butter and candy dough inside.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe
Garnishes
This candy is naturally charming with its creamy texture and swirled look, but you can elevate it with simple garnishes. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate adds a touch of sweetness and elegance that’s great for special occasions. Crushed peanuts sprinkled on top can add appealing crunch and nutty flair.
Side Dishes
While this Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe is a stand-alone delight, it pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee. The mild sweetness of the candy balances beverages’ bitterness, creating a heartwarming combo perfect for afternoon treats or dessert boards.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, slice the candy into uniform pieces and arrange them on a rustic wooden platter or decorative dish, perhaps with some colorful napkins for a vibrant touch. Wrapping individual slices in parchment or wax paper turns them into charming little gifts or party favors that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once prepared, this candy keeps best when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge. It should stay fresh and soft for up to one week, making it a great make-ahead treat to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to store your Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe for longer periods, freezing is the way to go. Wrap the candy roll well in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to three months without losing texture or flavor. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.
Reheating
This candy is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t typically necessary. However, if the candy feels too firm straight from the fridge or freezer, simply leave it out for 10 to 15 minutes to soften naturally before slicing.
FAQs
Why is potato used in this candy recipe?
The potato acts as a soft, moist base that helps bind the powdered sugar and other ingredients into a pliable dough. It adds a subtle earthiness but mostly contributes a creamy texture, making the candy smooth and tender without any potato flavor noticeable.
Can I substitute peanut butter with another filling?
Absolutely! While creamy peanut butter is traditional and offers a perfect balance of flavor and texture, you can experiment with other nut butters, chocolate spreads, or even fruit preserves for a unique twist on this classic Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe.
Is it necessary to use real butter?
Real butter adds richness and depth to the candy, enhancing both flavor and texture. While margarine can be used in a pinch, butter is recommended for the best, authentic taste that complements the sweetness and starchiness beautifully.
How thin should I roll the candy dough?
Rolling the dough to about a quarter-inch thickness is ideal. Too thin, and it might tear when spreading peanut butter or rolling up. Too thick, and the candy can become overly dense and lose its delicate chewiness.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil and use a dairy-free peanut butter variety. Just make sure the powdered sugar is vegan-friendly to keep everything aligned with your dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe is truly a little slice of sweet history that brings warmth and nostalgia to any kitchen. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps invite you to slow down and savor the magic of homemade candy. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll enjoy sharing this charming, creamy treat with everyone lucky enough to have a taste. It’s a delightful reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected combinations turn out to be the best.
Print
Old Fashioned Potato Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Old Fashioned Potato Candy is a nostalgic, sweet treat made from mashed potatoes, powdered sugar, butter, vanilla, and creamy peanut butter, rolled into a candy log and sliced into bite-sized pieces. This unique recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and yields a soft, sweet candy perfect for holiday gifting or a cozy homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Potato Candy Base
- 1 medium potato, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons real butter
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 pounds powdered sugar (more for rolling out candy)
Filling
- 1 jar creamy peanut butter (16 ounces, may not use all)
Instructions
- Cook the Potato: Peel and slice the potato. Cook in a small pan of water until very tender. Drain off the water completely to avoid excess moisture.
- Mash and Flavor: Mash the cooked potato with butter, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth and free of lumps, creating a creamy base for the candy.
- Add Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Continue until the mixture becomes thick, slightly sticky, and workable.
- Roll Out the Candy: On a surface dusted generously with powdered sugar, roll the candy mixture out to about 1/4 inch thickness to prepare for filling.
- Spread Peanut Butter: Spread a thin, even layer of creamy peanut butter over the rolled out candy, leaving a small border all around to prevent overflow when rolling.
- Roll and Chill: Carefully roll the candy into a log shape starting at one edge. Place the candy roll in the freezer to chill and firm up for easier slicing.
- Slice and Serve: Once chilled, slice the candy into 24 pieces. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the potato thoroughly after cooking to avoid a runny candy mixture.
- If mixture is too sticky to work with, add a little more powdered sugar to achieve desired consistency.
- You can substitute smooth peanut butter with any creamy nut butter of choice.
- Store the candy in the refrigerator to keep it firm and fresh for up to 1 week.
- This candy is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature for a soft texture.
