Old-Fashioned Potato Candy: My Grandma’s Secret Recipe

Sharing is caring!

Hello friend, do I have a treat to share with you today! Remember those recipes that instantly transport you back to your grandmother’s kitchen? This is one of those magical treats that’ll make you feel like you’ve discovered a sweet piece of history.
You know what’s funny? Every time I mention potato candy to someone new, they give me this look like I’ve lost my mind. “Potatoes? In candy?” But let me tell you – one bite of this creamy, sweet, peanut buttery goodness and they’re always begging for the recipe! It’s been my secret weapon at bake sales and holiday gatherings for years.
What makes this candy extra special is how ridiculously simple it is. We’re talking three main ingredients that transform into these adorable little pinwheels that look like you spent hours in the kitchen (when really, it’s easier than making cookies!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Only needs 3 simple ingredients
• No baking required
• Perfect for making with kids
• Great for gift-giving
• Tastes like old-fashioned candy shop treats

My candy dough is way too sticky – what am I doing wrong?

This is the most common issue, but don’t worry! Here’s your sticky situation fix:

• First, make sure your potato is COMPLETELY cool – even slightly warm potato will make the dough sticky
• Start with exactly ¼ cup mashed potato – too much potato is often the culprit
• Add powdered sugar gradually until the dough feels like play-dough
• If it’s still sticky after 4 cups of sugar, keep adding more, ¼ cup at a time
• Remember: Different potatoes have different moisture levels, so you might need more or less sugar

Why does my candy fall apart when I try to slice it?

The secret to perfect slices lies in these key factors:

• Chill time is non-negotiable – minimum 1 hour, but 2 hours is even better
• Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts
• Don’t slice too thin – aim for ½ inch pieces
• If your roll gets too soft while cutting, pop it back in the fridge for 15 minutes
• Make sure you rolled it tight enough – loose rolls tend to fall apart

Can I use different types of potatoes or instant mashed potatoes?

This is a crucial detail for success:

• Always use russet potatoes – they have the right starch content
• Avoid waxy potatoes (red, gold, new potatoes) as they’re too moist
• Never use instant mashed potatoes – they contain additives that affect texture
• Make sure to boil the potato until very tender – undercooked potatoes create lumpy candy
• Always peel the potato – the skin will affect the smooth texture you want

How long does potato candy last and what’s the best way to store it?

Storage is key to maintaining freshness:

• Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week
• Layer pieces between parchment paper to prevent sticking
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months
• Let frozen candy thaw in the fridge overnight
• Bring to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for best texture

Let’s Make Some Candy!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: About 24 pieces

What You’ll Need:

• 1 small russet potato (to make ¼ cup mashed)
• 4-5 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. First, peel and cut your potato into chunks, then boil until tender. Drain really well and mash until super smooth – no lumps allowed! Let it cool completely.
2. In a large bowl, measure out exactly ¼ cup of your mashed potato. Add vanilla if using. Start adding powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Keep going until you have a smooth, rollable dough – it should feel like play-dough.
3. Dust your surface with powdered sugar and roll the dough into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick. Spread peanut butter in a thin layer all over. Starting from the long edge, roll it up tight like a jelly roll.
4. Wrap your roll in plastic wrap and chill for at least an hour. Slice into ½-inch pieces and prepare for candy magic!

My Top 6 Tips for Perfect Potato Candy

• Cold potato = better candy
• Don’t skimp on the powdered sugar
• Roll dough between parchment paper
• Use room temp peanut butter for easy spreading
• Chill before slicing for clean cuts
• Keep slices small – this candy is sweet!

Storage & Serving Ideas:

Keep It Fresh:

Fridge: Up to 1 week
Freezer: Up to 3 months
Room temp: 2-3 hours max

Serving Suggestions:

Holiday cookie platters
Homemade gift boxes
After-school treats
Coffee break snacks

Sharing is caring!