There’s a special kind of magic in recreating those comforting flavors from childhood, and this Potato Candy Recipe is a perfect example. This delightful treat offers a surprisingly tender texture with a sweet, creamy peanut butter filling that’s simply irresistible. It’s a no-bake wonder that brings a touch of old-fashioned charm right into your kitchen, making it a joy to prepare and share.
I often find myself reaching for this recipe when I need a quick, nostalgic treat that feels both special and incredibly easy to whip up. It’s the kind of candy that brings back fond memories and is always a hit with family and friends, especially during holidays or when that sweet craving hits unexpectedly.
Why I Love This Recipe
This Potato Candy Recipe is a winner for so many reasons! Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make. You only need a few simple ingredients, and best of all, there’s no oven involved. The nostalgic flavor is a huge draw for me; it truly tastes like a sweet memory. Plus, it’s so quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for everyone!
Potato Candy Recipe Ingredients
The beauty of this Potato Candy Recipe lies in its simple, accessible ingredients that come together to create something truly special. The humble potato provides a surprisingly tender base, while creamy peanut butter adds that classic, beloved flavor.
- Mashed Potatoes: The star ingredient that gives the candy its unique, soft texture. Ensure they are completely cooled before you begin.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together for a smooth consistency.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the candy and provides the structure for rolling and shaping.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a warm aroma.
- Creamy Peanut Butter: The luscious filling that makes these candies so delightful.
Substitutions and Tips
For the mashed potatoes, you can use leftover mashed potatoes, but make sure they are plain and unsalted. If you don’t have russet, any starchy potato will work. For a flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of salt to the potato mixture or a touch of cinnamon. If your dough feels too sticky, don’t be afraid to add a little more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s moldable. Exact quantities for all ingredients are in the recipe card below.
How to Make Potato Candy
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Base
First, let’s get those potatoes ready. Pierce a medium russet potato all over with a fork. Pop it in the microwave. Rotate it every few minutes until it feels nice and tender when you poke it.
Carefully scoop out the soft potato inside. Discard the skin. Mash the potato until it’s perfectly smooth. It’s really important that the mashed potatoes are completely cooled before you start mixing. This prevents the butter from melting and ruining the candy’s texture.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Grab a big mixing bowl. Combine the cooled mashed potatoes. Add the softened butter. Stir in about 1 cup of powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer on a low speed. Mix until everything is just combined.
Now, add the rest of the powdered sugar. Do this about one cup at a time. Mix well after each addition. Keep adding sugar until the dough gets firm. It should be easy to roll. This usually takes about 6 to 7 cups total. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Once the dough feels just right, it’s time for a chill. Cover the bowl. Put it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 to 60 minutes. This step firms up the dough. It really helps when you roll it out.
Step 4: Roll and Fill
Get a clean surface ready. Wax paper or parchment paper works great. Dust it well with powdered sugar. Take half of the chilled dough. Place it on the dusted surface. Roll the dough out flat. Aim for a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread a smooth layer of creamy peanut butter over the dough. Leave a small border around the edges.
Step 5: Roll into a Log and Slice
Starting with one of the long sides, gently roll the dough up. Make sure it’s a tight log. This helps keep the filling inside. Use a sharp knife. Carefully slice the log into pieces. Aim for slices about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Repeat this process with the other half of the dough. You will have more delicious homemade candy.
How to Store Potato Candy
To keep your wonderful Potato Candy tasting its best, store any extras in an airtight container. Pop that container into the refrigerator. Your yummy homemade candy should stay delicious for up to a whole week. Keeping it cool helps it keep its shape. It also prevents the candy from getting too soft. This makes it a super convenient treat you can make ahead of time.
Tips for Success
- Make sure your mashed potatoes are totally cooled. This gives the best texture.
- Never skip the chilling step. It makes rolling so much easier.
- Dust your surface well with powdered sugar. This stops the dough from sticking.
- Roll the log nice and tight. This creates neat slices.
- Add more powdered sugar if the dough is sticky. Or slightly more butter if it feels dry.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need a fancy kitchen for this Potato Candy Recipe. Here are the basics:
- A simple fork works for piercing the potato.
- Your microwave is key for cooking the potato quickly.
- A large mixing bowl is perfect for combining ingredients.
- An electric mixer makes dough prep super easy.
- Wax paper or parchment paper prevents sticking.
- A rolling pin helps flatten the dough evenly.
- A sharp knife ensures clean cuts on your candy log.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful Potato Candy pieces are perfect for sharing. Try serving them with a cold glass of milk. A warm cup of tea also pairs wonderfully. Arrange them on a festive platter. This makes them look extra special for parties. Enjoy one with your afternoon coffee. You can even package them in small tins. They make super thoughtful homemade gifts too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this Potato Candy Recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use leftover mashed potatoes! Just ensure they are plain, unsalted, and have cooled completely before incorporating them into the candy mixture. Avoid any mashed potatoes with added butter, milk, or seasonings, as this can alter the final taste and texture.
How do I get the right consistency for the dough?
The key to the right dough consistency is the powdered sugar. Start with the recommended amount and add more gradually, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough is firm enough to handle and roll without being overly sticky. If it feels too dry, a tiny bit more butter can help, but it’s usually an issue of not enough powdered sugar.
Can I use a different nut butter for the filling?
While creamy peanut butter is traditional for this Potato Candy Recipe, you can experiment with other smooth nut butters like almond butter or cashew butter. Just be aware that different nut butters might have slightly different consistencies and flavors, which could subtly change the final taste of your homemade candy.
How long does this candy last?
Stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this Potato Candy will stay fresh and delicious for about a week. The cooling process helps maintain its structure, making it a great option for preparing a few days in advance for any upcoming events or cravings.
Print
Potato Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: Approximately 24-30 pieces
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A nostalgic and easy-to-make candy recipe using mashed potatoes, butter, powdered sugar, and peanut butter.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (105 g) plain mashed potatoes, cooled completely (from 1 medium russet potato)
- 1/2 cup (113 g) salted butter, softened
- 6–7 cups (800–910 g) powdered sugar, plus additional for dusting
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Creamy peanut butter for filling
Instructions
- To prepare mashed potatoes: Pierce a russet potato all over with a fork. Microwave, rotating every few minutes, until tender. Remove potato filling from skin and mash until smooth. Cool completely before proceeding.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, softened butter, and 1 cup of powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer to stir until combined.
- Add remaining powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, stirring until combined after each addition. Once 6 cups are added, check consistency. If the dough is not moldable and can’t be rolled into a ball, continue to add sugar until firm.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 30-60 minutes.
- Dust a clean surface (like wax paper) with powdered sugar. Place half of the dough on the prepared surface and roll it into a rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Spread an even layer of creamy peanut butter over the dough, leaving a small border peanut butter-free around the perimeter.
- Starting with the longer side of the rectangle, gently but tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the log into slices about 1/4-1/2 inch thick.
- Repeat with the remaining half of the dough.
- Store leftover candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
- Ensure mashed potatoes are completely cooled before mixing to prevent the butter from melting.
- Adjust the amount of powdered sugar as needed to reach a moldable consistency.
- For a smoother log, ensure the peanut butter layer is even and the rolling is tight.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
