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Discover the old-fashioned candy made with potatoes, peanut butter, and powdered sugar!
If you’ve never heard of Potato Candy, prepare to be surprised! This no-bake dessert is a nostalgic, old-fashioned treat that has been passed down for generations. Despite its name, Potato Candy doesn’t taste like potatoes at all! Instead, it features a sweet, creamy, peanut butter filling wrapped inside a soft, sugary dough made from potatoes.
This homemade candy became popular during the Great Depression, when families had to get creative with inexpensive, readily available ingredients. Today, it remains a holiday favorite in many households, especially in the Southern United States and among Pennsylvania Dutch communities.
What makes Potato Candy special is its simplicity—it requires only a handful of ingredients and comes together in just a few easy steps. Whether you’re looking for a unique Christmas treat, a fun kitchen project with kids, or a nostalgic recipe from the past, Potato Candy is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
For those who love exploring historical cooking traditions, Smithsonian Magazine offers an excellent deep dive into Depression-era recipes and how they shaped American cuisine.
And if you want to take your Potato Candy to the next level, consider making your own peanut butter for a richer, creamier flavor!
What is Potato Candy?
A Simple, Old-Fashioned Treat with a Surprising Ingredient!
Potato Candy is a unique, no-bake dessert that has been cherished for generations. While the name might raise eyebrows, this candy is known for its soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich, creamy peanut butter filling. It’s a perfect example of a resourceful, old-fashioned treat that turns simple ingredients into something delightfully sweet.
At its core, Potato Candy consists of a dough made from mashed potatoes and powdered sugar, which is then rolled with peanut butter to form pinwheel-shaped slices. Despite potatoes being the main ingredient, they don’t contribute much to the flavor—their purpose is to bind the dough together, resulting in a smooth and pliable texture that’s easy to roll.
This candy has been a holiday tradition for many families, especially around Christmas and Easter, when homemade sweets take center stage. It’s a staple in Southern and Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, where it has been passed down through generations as a nostalgic and budget-friendly confection.
Why Use Potatoes in Candy?
At first glance, the idea of adding potatoes to a candy recipe might seem odd. After all, potatoes are usually associated with savory dishes like mashed potatoes, fries, and casseroles. However, when mixed with powdered sugar, they create a smooth, pliable dough that is perfect for rolling and shaping.
Here’s why potatoes work so well in Potato Candy:
✅ Neutral Flavor: Mashed potatoes have little taste on their own, allowing the sweetness of the powdered sugar and the richness of the peanut butter to shine through.
✅ Smooth, Dough-Like Texture: The natural starch in potatoes helps create a moldable, non-sticky dough that holds its shape without needing flour or cornstarch.
✅ A Smart Substitute for Flour: During the Great Depression, when flour was scarce or expensive, potatoes were a creative alternative for making sweets.
✅ Moisture Retention: Potatoes help keep the candy soft and prevent it from drying out, unlike some traditional sugar-based confections.
✅ Historical Significance: Potato Candy is a testament to the ingenuity of home cooks who had to make do with what they had. Instead of relying on expensive ingredients, they found a way to turn simple pantry staples into a delicious dessert.
Although Potato Candy may not be as widely known as other classic sweets, it remains a beloved homemade treat, passed down through generations. If you’ve never tried it before, don’t let the name fool you—one bite, and you’ll understand why it has stood the test of time!
The History of Potato Candy
From the Great Depression to modern-day kitchens!
The origins of Potato Candy are tied to economic hardship and resourceful cooking. During the Great Depression, when traditional baking ingredients were scarce, home cooks found creative ways to make sweet treats with simple pantry staples.
The Pennsylvania Dutch and Southern families were among the first to embrace this unique candy, making it a Christmas tradition that has endured for decades.
While the classic version remains the most popular, many families have put their own spin on the recipe, leading to fun regional variations and unique flavors over time.
How to Make Traditional Potato Candy
A simple, step-by-step guide to making this classic treat!
Ingredients:
- ½ cup mashed potatoes (completely cooled)
- 6-7 cups powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- ½ cup salted butter (softened)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (for filling)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Use plain, unsalted mashed potatoes with no added milk or butter.
- Ensure they are smooth and lump-free before using.
- Let the potatoes cool completely to avoid melting the sugar.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, softened butter, and 1 cup of powdered sugar.
- Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth.
- Gradually add more powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until a moldable dough forms.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes.
- This helps it firm up, making it easier to roll.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
- Lightly dust a clean surface with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Roll the dough into a ¼-inch thick rectangle (about 8×12 inches).
Step 5: Add the Peanut Butter Filling
- Spread a thin, even layer of peanut butter over the rolled-out dough.
- Leave a ½-inch border around the edges to prevent overflow.
Step 6: Roll the Candy Log
- Starting from the longer side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log.
- If the dough cracks, let it warm slightly at room temperature before continuing.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
- Use a sharp knife to cut the log into ¼-inch pinwheel slices.
- Arrange on a serving plate and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for later!
For even more holiday treat ideas, be sure to check out Food Network’s collection of festive sweets!
Potato Candy Variations & Customizations
Make it your own with these creative twists!
✅ Nut-Free Option – Substitute cookie butter, chocolate spread, or cream cheese frosting for peanut butter.
✅ Chocolate Potato Candy – Mix cocoa powder into the dough for a rich chocolate flavor.
✅ Cinnamon Sugar Version – Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar over the peanut butter before rolling.
✅ Coconut Delight – Add shredded coconut to the dough for extra texture.
Common Problems & How to Fix Them
Dough is Too Sticky or Runny
✅ Cause: The mashed potatoes were too warm.
✅ Fix: Let the potatoes cool completely before adding sugar.
Candy is Falling Apart When Rolling
✅ Cause: The dough is too dry or the peanut butter layer is too thick.
✅ Fix: Let the dough sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling.
Best Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freeze slices between parchment paper for up to 3 months.
Health & Nutrition
While Potato Candy is a delicious holiday indulgence, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Slice):
- Calories: ~94 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~19g
- Sugar: ~18g
- Fat: ~2g
- Protein: ~1g
Healthier Alternatives:
✅ Use almond butter or sunflower butter instead of peanut butter.
✅ Reduce powdered sugar and replace some with coconut flour.
FAQs About Potato Candy
1. Can I Make Potato Candy Without Peanut Butter?
Yes! While peanut butter is the classic filling, there are plenty of delicious alternatives. Try using:
- Nutella for a chocolate-hazelnut twist.
- Cookie butter for a rich, spiced flavor.
- Cream cheese frosting for a tangy, creamy variation.
- Almond butter or sunflower butter as nut-free alternatives.
2. Can I Use Instant Mashed Potatoes?
It’s not recommended to use instant mashed potatoes because they often contain added preservatives, milk, or butter, which can alter the consistency of the dough. Freshly mashed, plain russet potatoes work best for the smoothest texture.
3. Why Did My Dough Turn Watery?
If your dough becomes too wet or sticky, it’s likely due to:
- Warm potatoes—always let them cool completely before adding powdered sugar.
- Excess moisture in the mashed potatoes. If this happens, gradually mix in more powdered sugar (1 tablespoon at a time) until the dough firms up.
4. Can I Make Potato Candy Ahead of Time?
Yes! Potato Candy can be made in advance and stored:
- In the refrigerator for up to 1 week in an airtight container.
- In the freezer for up to 3 months, with slices separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
5. How Long Does Potato Candy Last?
- At room temperature: Best enjoyed within 24 hours to maintain freshness.
- In the fridge: Stays fresh for 5-7 days when stored properly.
- In the freezer: Can be stored for up to 3 months and thawed before serving.
6. Can I Add Chocolate to Potato Candy?
Absolutely! Chocolate lovers can enjoy variations like:
- Drizzling melted chocolate over the candy for extra richness.
- Mixing cocoa powder into the dough for a chocolate-flavored base.
- Spreading chocolate hazelnut spread instead of peanut butter for a double chocolate effect.
7. Is Potato Candy Vegan?
Traditional Potato Candy contains butter, but it can be made vegan by:
- Replacing butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Using plant-based fillings like almond butter or dairy-free chocolate spread.
8. Can I Make This Recipe Without Powdered Sugar?
Powdered sugar is essential to the structure of the candy. However, if you want to reduce sugar, try substituting coconut flour or almond flour for a lower-carb version, but expect a different texture.
9. What Can I Serve with Potato Candy?
Potato Candy pairs well with:
- Hot coffee or spiced tea for a warm, cozy treat.
- Hot chocolate for an extra indulgent pairing.
- Holiday dessert platters, alongside other homemade sweets like Homemade Peanut Brittle or Chocolate Covered Pretzels.
10. Is Potato Candy a Southern Tradition?
Yes! Potato Candy is a popular Southern and Pennsylvania Dutch treat that has been passed down for generations, often enjoyed during Christmas and Easter.
Final Thoughts: A Classic Treat Worth Trying!
Potato Candy is a fun, simple, and nostalgic dessert that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re recreating a family tradition or trying it for the first time, this sweet, peanut butter-filled treat is sure to impress!
If you enjoy no-bake desserts, you might also love trying this No-Bake Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake, a creamy and crunchy delight that’s perfect for any occasion.
For those who love experimenting with potato-based dishes, check out this delicious and savory Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe, a comforting dish packed with flavor.
And if you’re a fan of old-fashioned candy, you won’t want to miss this Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe—a crunchy, caramelized classic that pairs perfectly with your homemade Potato Candy!
Have you made Potato Candy before? Share your experience in the comments below! C