Potato Candy
Ingredients
- ½ cup plain mashed potatoes*
see recipe notes for cooking instructions
- ½ cup salted butter
softened
- 6-7 cups powdered sugar
plus additional for dusting
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Creamy peanut butter
for filling
Directions
- 1
Combine mashed potatoes, butter, and one cup of sugar in a large bowl and use an electric mixer to stir until combined.
- 2
Add remaining sugar, 1 cup at a time and stirring until combined after each addition. Once you've added 6 cups of powdered sugar, check the consistency. If the dough is not moldable in your hands and can't be rolled into a ball, continue to add sugar until it is firm.
- 3
Stir in vanilla extract.
- 4
Refrigerate for at least 30-60 minutes (if you chill longer it may become too firm and brittle and will just need to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes until it is pliable).
- 5
Once chilled, divide dough into two pieces and place one piece on a clean surface that you've generously dusted with powdered sugar. Dust the surface of the dough with additional sugar, and use a rolling pin to roll dough out into a rectangle about ¼" thick (about 8x12"). If your dough is too sticky or falling apart, you may need to add more sugar, re-shape it into a ball, and start over.
- 6
Once dough has been rolled into a rectangle, spread evenly with peanut butter, leaving a small amount of space peanut butter-free around the perimeter of the dough.
- 7
Starting with the longer side of your rectangle, gently but tightly roll into a log.
- 8
Use a harp knife to cut into slices about ¼-½" thick.
- 9
Repeat steps 5-8 with remaining half of dough.
- 10
Serve and enjoy. Store leftover candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Potato Candy
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About this Recipe
Looking for a truly unique and delicious homemade treat that conjures up memories of simpler times? This classic Potato Candy, often called Peanut Butter Pinwheels, is a delightful surprise that blends old-fashioned charm with irresistible flavor. It's an unexpectedly elegant candy that's easier to make than you might think, making it perfect for sharing.
What makes this recipe truly special is the ingenious use of plain mashed potatoes. This humble ingredient is the secret to an incredibly smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture that forms the perfect canvas for a rich, creamy peanut butter filling. It's a cherished family recipe, passed down through generations, ensuring a nostalgic taste that stands out from typical store-bought sweets.
When you bite into these Potato Candy pinwheels, expect a wonderfully soft, slightly dense, yet surprisingly light texture that literally dissolves on your tongue. The outside delivers a sweet, vanilla-infused flavor, perfectly balanced by the luscious, savory creaminess of the peanut butter swirling within. The combination is both comforting and captivating, creating a beautiful contrast that's hard to resist. Despite its secret ingredient, the candy doesn't taste like potatoes at all; instead, it's a sweet, rich confectionery with a distinct homemade touch.
Customization & Variations
While the classic creamy peanut butter is a winner, feel free to experiment. You can swap creamy peanut butter for crunchy peanut butter to add a delightful textural contrast. For a different flavor profile, consider adding a hint of almond extract to the potato base alongside the vanilla, or even a touch of cocoa powder to the peanut butter for a chocolatey twist. If you're feeling adventurous, a thin layer of Nutella could also make an exciting substitute for the peanut butter.
This Potato Candy is ideal for holiday platters, potlucks, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Its elegant pinwheel design makes it a visually appealing treat that's sure to impress friends and family, perfect alongside a cup of coffee or tea.