Old-Fashioned Potato Candy

There’s a certain magic in rediscovering classic treats, and this Old-Fashioned Potato Candy is a prime example. It’s a surprisingly simple yet utterly delightful confection that brings a touch of nostalgic charm to any occasion. The smooth, slightly chewy texture of the potato base, perfectly complemented by the creamy peanut butter filling, creates a flavor combination that’s both comforting and uniquely satisfying.

This recipe is a wonderful way to connect with simpler times, and it’s perfect for those moments when you crave a sweet indulgence without a lot of fuss. It’s also a fantastic treat to share with family, often sparking fond memories for those who remember it from their childhood.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore this Old-Fashioned Potato Candy recipe for so many reasons.

• Incredibly Easy: You only need a few pantry staples, and best of all, there’s no baking involved!
• Nostalgic Flavor: It’s a genuine taste of simpler times, evoking happy childhood memories.
• Quick to Make: This recipe is a lifesaver when a sweet craving hits unexpectedly.
• Surprisingly Delicious: The humble potato base is a secret weapon for a wonderful confection.

Old-Fashioned Potato Candy Ingredients

The beauty of this Old-Fashioned Potato Candy lies in its humble yet effective ingredient list. It creates a delightful sweet experience from simple pantry staples. The combination of mashed potato and powdered sugar forms the unique, pliable base. Creamy peanut butter provides a rich, satisfying center. You’ll find exact quantities in the recipe card below.

• Russet Potato: This is our star ingredient. When mashed, it creates a smooth, slightly moist texture for the candy base.
• Powdered Sugar: This is essential for sweetening. It also helps bind the potato into a workable dough.
• Vanilla Extract (Optional): A touch of vanilla adds a subtle depth of flavor. It’s a simple addition that really elevates the taste.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: This creates the luscious filling. It pairs perfectly with the sweet potato exterior for a classic flavor.

Substitutions and Tips:

Feel free to swap peanut butter for other spreads. Almond butter or sunflower seed butter are great choices. Even a smooth chocolate hazelnut spread like Nutella works wonderfully. These swaps offer different flavor profiles for your Old-Fashioned Potato Candy. For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of salt to the peanut butter filling. Ensure your potato is mashed very smoothly. A potato ricer works wonders here. It truly helps to avoid any lumps in your final candy.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Potato Candy

Step 1: Prepare the Potato Base

Cook your peeled and chopped potato until very tender. Drain all the water thoroughly. Transfer the potato to a large bowl. Mash it until perfectly smooth, absolutely no lumps allowed. Using a potato ricer is highly recommended for the smoothest texture. Let the mashed potato cool just a bit. It should still be warm when you proceed.

Step 2: Create the Dough

Add about 2 to 4 cups of powdered sugar to the warm mashed potato. Mix it well. The mixture might seem quite loose, even liquidy. Stir in the vanilla extract if you are using it. This adds a lovely flavor. Continue adding the remaining powdered sugar. Add it about one cup at a time. Mix after each addition. You want a thick, putty-like dough. It should be a bit stiffer than cookie dough. An electric mixer can help a lot. This is true if the dough gets difficult to mix by hand.

Step 3: Assemble the Candy Log

Lay out a large sheet of wax paper. It should be about 18×12 inches. Dust it generously with powdered sugar. Place the Old-Fashioned Potato Candy dough onto the sugared wax paper. Sprinkle the top with more powdered sugar. Use a rolling pin to flatten the dough. Aim for a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Trim the edges for nice, straight lines. Evenly spread your creamy peanut butter over the entire surface of the dough. Leave a small border of about 1/4 inch along the edges.

Step 4: Roll and Chill

Starting from one of the long edges, begin to roll the dough tightly into a log. Use the wax paper to help guide the roll. Ensure it stays compact. Once rolled, wrap the log securely in the wax paper. You can cut the log in half crosswise if you prefer. Place the wrapped log or halves into a large resealable bag. Or, put it on a cookie sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. Wait until it is firm enough to slice.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Unwrap your firm Old-Fashioned Potato Candy. Slice it into pieces. Aim for about 1/2 to 1 inch thick. These vintage treats are best enjoyed chilled. They are absolutely perfect for sharing with loved ones.

How to Store Old-Fashioned Potato Candy

Keep your delightful Old-Fashioned Potato Candy fresh. Store it in an airtight container. Use your refrigerator for this. It stays wonderful for up to two weeks. This candy keeps its texture and flavor well. Freezing is generally not advised. The texture can change after thawing. Always make sure the candy is properly chilled. Chill it before slicing and serving it.

Tips for Success

Here are a few little tricks I’ve learned for making this Old-Fashioned Potato Candy. They help ensure a perfect result every time!

• Always mash the potato thoroughly. This avoids any lumps in the final treat.
• A potato ricer is your best friend. It yields the smoothest possible texture.
• If the dough feels too sticky, don’t worry! Just add a little more powdered sugar.
• Spread the peanut butter evenly. This ensures a consistent filling in every bite.
• Chill the log sufficiently. It needs to be firm enough to slice cleanly.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Gathering the right tools makes making Old-Fashioned Potato Candy a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A small pot for cooking the potato.
• A large bowl for mixing your ingredients.
• A potato masher is fine. A potato ricer is even better for smoothness.
• Use a rolling pin to flatten the dough.
• Wax paper is essential for rolling and chilling.
• A sharp knife for slicing the finished candy.

Serving Suggestions

These delightful Old-Fashioned Potato Candy pieces are wonderful on their own. Consider these tasty ideas:

• Serve them chilled as a perfect after-dinner treat.
• They pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk. A warm cup of tea is also lovely.
• Arrange them on a festive platter for parties. They look beautiful during holidays too.
• Offer this unique homemade candy as a thoughtful gift. Anyone would appreciate them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Old-Fashioned Potato Candy ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! This vintage candy is perfect for making ahead. Once it is rolled, chilled, and sliced, store your Old-Fashioned Potato Candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks. This makes it a fantastic option for preparing for parties or special occasions.

What kind of potato is best for potato candy?

A starchy potato, like a Russet, is ideal for this Old-Fashioned Potato Candy recipe. Its texture when mashed helps create the smooth, pliable dough needed for the candy. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they may result in a less desirable consistency for your sweet treat.

Can I use something other than peanut butter for the filling?

Certainly! Feel free to get creative with the filling for your Old-Fashioned Potato Candy. Creamy almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or even a rich chocolate-hazelnut spread like Nutella are wonderful alternatives. These offer delicious variations on the classic flavor, making your potato candy uniquely yours.

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