This old-fashioned potato candy is a unique treat that stretches simple ingredients to make a deliciously sweet, creamy, peanut-buttery dessert. Popular during the Great Depression, it’s a nostalgic recipe that requires only a few pantry staples.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium to large potato, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla or maple syrup
- 6–8 cups powdered sugar (add as needed to reach a dough consistency)
- Peanut butter (smooth or chunky, depending on preference)
Instructions:
- Cook the Potato:
- Boil the peeled and chopped potato in a pot of water until tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth (no lumps).
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the mashed potato and vanilla or maple syrup. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture will transform from a sticky paste to a dough-like consistency as more powdered sugar is added.
- Keep adding powdered sugar until the dough is smooth, thick, and no longer sticky.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Place the dough on a piece of wax paper or parchment paper lightly dusted with powdered sugar. Roll it out into a rectangular shape, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Add the Peanut Butter:
- Spread a layer of peanut butter over the rolled-out dough. You can make it as thick or thin as you like.
- Roll and Chill:
- Starting from one of the shorter edges, carefully roll the dough into a log, using the wax paper to help guide and keep it tight.
- Wrap the log tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, until firm.
- Slice and Serve:
- Once chilled, remove the candy log from the refrigerator, unwrap, and slice into 1/4-inch pieces.
Tips:
- Texture Control: If the dough gets too sticky to work with, add a little extra powdered sugar.
- Flavor Twist: Add a dash of cinnamon or cocoa powder to the dough for a flavor twist.
This nostalgic candy brings back memories of simpler times, and a little goes a long way with its rich, sweet flavor! Enjoy.