Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Utilizing basic pantry staples like potatoes, powdered sugar, and peanut butter, this recipe is both economical and accessible.
No-Bake Preparation: Ideal for those who prefer to avoid using an oven, this candy comes together without any baking required.
Nostalgic Appeal: This old-fashioned treat carries a rich history and offers a taste of traditional American confections.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 small russet potato, peeled and cut into chunks
6 to 8 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Creamy peanut butter

Directions

Cook the Potato: Place the peeled and chopped potato into a pot of water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potato pieces are tender, then drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Mash the Potato: Using a fork or potato masher, mash the potato until smooth and free of lumps.
Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Begin by adding 4 cups of powdered sugar to the mashed potato, mixing thoroughly. The mixture will become liquefied initially. Continue adding powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until a stiff, dough-like consistency is achieved. This typically requires between 6 to 8 cups of powdered sugar.
Add Vanilla Extract: If using, stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Roll Out the Dough: On a surface dusted with powdered sugar, roll the dough into a large rectangular shape, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
Spread the Peanut Butter: Evenly spread a layer of creamy peanut butter over the surface of the dough, ensuring full coverage.
Roll and Chill: Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one of the longer edges. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Slice and Serve: Once chilled, unwrap the log and slice into 1/2-inch thick pinwheel pieces. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes approximately 20-24 pieces.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the sliced pieces for an extra indulgent touch.
Nutty Addition: Swap the peanut butter for almond butter, hazelnut spread, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.
Cinnamon Twist: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the powdered sugar dough for a subtle spiced flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freezing: Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.
Reheating: No reheating is required, as this is a no-bake candy best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

What does potato candy taste like?

Potato candy has a sweet, fudge-like consistency with a creamy peanut butter filling. It doesn’t taste like potatoes, as the sugar overpowers the potato flavor.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

No, it’s best to use real mashed potatoes for this recipe, as instant potatoes can contain additives that affect the texture and consistency.

My dough is too sticky—what should I do?

If the dough is too sticky to roll out, add more powdered sugar, a little at a time, until it becomes firm enough to handle.

Can I use a different filling?

Yes! Instead of peanut butter, you can use Nutella, cookie butter, or even a fruit jam for a unique twist.

How do I prevent the dough from cracking?

Ensure you don’t add too much powdered sugar, as this can dry out the dough. Rolling it gently and refrigerating before slicing will also help prevent cracking.

Do I have to chill the candy before slicing?

Yes, chilling helps firm up the dough and makes slicing much easier without smearing the filling.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, potato candy stores well in the refrigerator and can be made a day or two in advance.

How thin should I roll the dough?

Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness to ensure it holds the filling well and rolls easily without breaking.

What type of peanut butter works best?

Creamy peanut butter is the best option for a smooth filling, but you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture.

Can I make a smaller batch?

Yes, simply halve the ingredients to make a smaller portion of potato candy.

Conclusion

Potato Candy from Ohio is a nostalgic and delightful treat that proves simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a no-bake dessert, a fun recipe to try with kids, or a piece of old-fashioned candy history, this recipe delivers on flavor and tradition. Give it a try and enjoy the sweet, peanut buttery goodness!

Potato Candy from Ohio

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Potato Candy is a classic confection from Ohio and the Appalachian region, known for its unique use of mashed potatoes combined with powdered sugar to create a sweet, dough-like base. This no-bake treat is traditionally filled with creamy peanut butter, rolled into a log, and sliced into pinwheel-shaped pieces. A nostalgic dessert with roots in the Great Depression, it remains a beloved homemade candy today.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Approximately 20-24 pieces
Category: Dessert / Candy
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 small russet potato, peeled and cut into chunks
6 to 8 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Creamy peanut butter

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Instructions

Cook the Potato: Boil the potato pieces until tender. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Mash the Potato: Mash until smooth and lump-free.
Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Start with 4 cups of powdered sugar, mixing thoroughly. Add more sugar, one cup at a time, until the mixture forms a stiff, dough-like consistency (typically 6-8 cups).
Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract, if using.
Roll Out the Dough: On a powdered sugar-dusted surface, roll the dough into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle.
Spread the Peanut Butter: Evenly spread a layer of creamy peanut butter over the dough.
Roll and Chill: Roll the dough into a tight log, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Slice and Serve: Unwrap and slice into 1/2-inch thick pinwheel pieces. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted chocolate for extra indulgence.
Nutty Addition: Swap peanut butter for almond butter, Nutella, or sunflower seed butter.
Cinnamon Twist: Mix a pinch of cinnamon into the powdered sugar dough.