Potato Candy

Name: Potato Candy
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 20 pieces
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 1/2 cup mashed potatoes (completely cooled); 4 1/2 cups icing sugar (sifted); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter

75 min 20 pieces Easy

All Recipes

Potato Candy

Sweet and nostalgic potato candy made with mashed potatoes and icing sugar, perfect for a unique dessert that evokes childhood memories.

Prep

15 min

Total

75 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Potato candy is a unique and nostalgic treat that hails from Québec. While it might seem unusual to mix potatoes with sweets, this recipe yields a deliciously sweet and creamy candy that will surprise your taste buds. The combination of mashed potatoes and icing sugar creates a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs beautifully with the rich flavour of peanut butter. This traditional recipe is a fun way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and is perfect for those who enjoy trying vintage desserts. The origins of potato candy are rooted in resourcefulness, making it a testament to inventive cooking during times when ingredients were scarce. Today, it remains a beloved treat in many households, especially during the holidays.

Ingredients

Servings

Potato Candy Base

Instructions

Prepare the base

In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the icing sugar until you form a stiff dough.

Pro tip: Add the icing sugar slowly to prevent the dough from becoming too sticky.

Roll out the dough

Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick on a surface dusted with icing sugar.

Pro tip: Keep the rolling pin and surface lightly dusted with icing sugar to prevent sticking.

Spread the peanut butter

Evenly spread the peanut butter over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Pro tip: For a different flavour, try using almond butter or any nut butter of your choice.

Roll into a log

Carefully roll the dough from one long side to the other to form a log. Wrap the log in plastic wrap.

Pro tip: Wrap tightly and chill to help maintain the shape.

Chill the log

Refrigerate the candy log for at least 1 hour or until firm.

Pro tip: Chilling makes the candy easier to slice cleanly.

Slice and serve

Unwrap the log and slice it into 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) pieces. Serve immediately or store as needed.

Pro tip: For an extra decorative touch, roll slices in icing sugar before serving.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use leftover mashed potatoes for extra convenience and flavour.</li><li>Ensure the mashed potatoes are completely cooled before starting.</li><li>Experiment with different flavoured extracts for a unique twist.</li><li>Chill the rolled candy log before slicing for cleaner cuts.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Potato candy is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its shelf life up to two weeks. Serve this candy as a sweet end to a meal or as a delightful snack with a cup of tea or coffee. For a fun twist, try rolling your potato candy in crushed nuts or shredded coconut before slicing. This adds a delightful crunch and additional flavour that pairs well with the sweet, creamy base.