Old-Fashioned Potato Candy

If you’re on a quest for a unique, time-honored dessert, look no further than Old-Fashioned Potato Candy. This recipe combines simple ingredients and a touch of nostalgia to create a confection that’s both surprising and delightful. Whether you’re exploring vintage recipes or looking for a new treat to share, potato candy is a must-try!

What is Old-Fashioned Potato Candy?

Potato candy hails from the days of resourceful cooking when families turned basic pantry staples into delicious treats. The base of the candy is made using mashed potatoes, powdered sugar, and often a swirl of peanut butter. Despite its humble beginnings, the end result is a creamy, sweet, and irresistible treat.

Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Potato Candy

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 small potato, peeled and boiled
• 4-5 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup peanut butter

How to Make Old-Fashioned Potato Candy

1. Prepare the Potato Base
   • Boil the potato until fork-tender. Drain and mash until smooth. Allow it to cool completely before proceeding.
2. Mix the Dough
   • Gradually add powdered sugar to the mashed potato, stirring until it forms a thick dough. Add the vanilla extract for flavor. The mixture should no longer be sticky and should roll out easily.
3. Roll and Fill
   • Dust a clean surface with powdered sugar. Roll out the dough into a thin rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
   • Spread the peanut butter evenly over the dough.
4. Roll and Slice
   • Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one of the longer sides.
   • Slice the log into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on parchment paper.
5. Chill and Serve
   • Refrigerate the pieces for at least 1 hour to firm up before serving.

Tips for Perfect Potato Candy

• Use a small potato to avoid excess moisture.
• Add sugar gradually until the dough reaches the desired consistency.
• Get creative with fillings—swap peanut butter for Nutella or add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.

Serving and Storing Potato Candy

Potato candy is best served chilled. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the candy in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, it’s an affordable treat.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, excluding chilling time.
• Family-Friendly: A fun recipe to make with kids, and they’ll love the taste!

Rediscover the charm of Old-Fashioned Potato Candy and enjoy its unique blend of simplicity and sweetness. It’s the perfect addition to any dessert table or holiday celebration!

Serving and Storage Tips for Old-Fashioned Potato Candy

Serving Tips

1. Chilled Perfection: Serve the candy straight from the fridge for the best texture. The cool temperature enhances the creamy, sweet flavors.
2. Presentation Matters: Arrange the slices on a decorative platter, garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra flair.
3. Pairing Suggestions: Pair the candy with a hot beverage like coffee or tea, as its sweetness complements the warm, bitter notes.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store potato candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps it fresh and prevents the peanut butter from becoming too soft. It will stay good for up to one week.
2. Layering: If stacking candy slices in a container, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
3. Freezing for Longevity: To freeze, arrange the candy pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. The candy can be frozen for up to 2 months.
4. Defrosting: When ready to enjoy, let the candy thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours.

These tips ensure your Old-Fashioned Potato Candy stays fresh, delicious, and ready to share whenever the craving strikes!

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes, but ensure they are plain and unsalted. Freshly mashed potatoes are preferred for their natural flavor and smoother texture, which make the candy dough easier to work with.

2. What can I use as a substitute for peanut butter?
If you’re avoiding peanut butter, you can use almond butter, sunflower seed butter, Nutella, or even a layer of cream cheese sweetened with a bit of powdered sugar.

3. Why is my potato candy dough too sticky?
If the dough is sticky, you may need to add more powdered sugar. Sticky dough often happens if the potato base has too much moisture or if the powdered sugar wasn’t added gradually. Chill the dough briefly to make it easier to handle.

4. How long does Old-Fashioned Potato Candy last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the candy stays fresh for up to one week. If frozen, it can last up to 2 months. Ensure it is well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors.

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