Old-Fashioned Potato Candy is a nostalgic treat that proves simple ingredients can create magic. Despite its name, you won’t taste the potato—just a soft, sweet, melt-in-your-mouth candy filled with creamy peanut butter. This no-bake confection dates back to the Depression era when people made the most of what they had, turning humble ingredients into a delightful dessert. It’s smooth, rich, and perfect for sharing around the holidays or any time you crave a sweet bite of tradition.
Servings: 24 pieces
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
2. Ingredients
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1 small russet potato, peeled and diced (about ½ cup mashed)
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4–5 cups powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ cup creamy peanut butter
3. Instructions
Step 1: Cook and Mash the Potato
Boil the diced potato in a small saucepan until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain well and mash until smooth. Let it cool completely before using.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Place the mashed potato in a large bowl and stir in vanilla extract. Add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, stirring until a dough forms. It should be soft but not sticky. You may not need all the sugar.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Dust a sheet of parchment paper with powdered sugar. Roll the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
Step 4: Add the Peanut Butter
Spread a thin, even layer of peanut butter over the entire surface. Leave a small border around the edges.
Step 5: Roll and Chill
Starting from one long side, roll the dough into a tight log using the parchment to help guide it. Wrap it and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, slice the candy into ½-inch rounds. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
4. Nutrition (Per Piece)
Calories: 110
Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 2g
Sugar: 18g
Fiber: 0.5g
5. Tips
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Make sure the mashed potato is completely cool before adding sugar; warm potato can make the dough runny.
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If the dough gets too sticky, add a bit more powdered sugar until it firms up.
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Swap the peanut butter for Nutella or almond butter for a different twist.
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These candies keep well in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for up to a month.
