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Vintage Peanut Butter Potato Candy

  • Author: Grandma's Kitchen

Description

A nostalgic Depression-era treat that combines mashed potatoes, peanut butter, and powdered sugar for a surprisingly delicious candy. These sweet rolls are sliced to reveal a beautiful swirl pattern.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • For the dough:
  • 1/2 cup mashed potatoes (cooled, no butter/milk added)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
  • For the filling:
  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

  1. 1. Prepare mashed potatoes (ensure they’re completely cooled and free of any butter/milk).
  2. 2. In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
  3. 3. Gradually add powdered sugar 1 cup at a time, mixing until a stiff dough forms (about 4 cups total).
  4. 4. On a powdered sugar-dusted surface, roll dough into a 12×10 inch rectangle.
  5. 5. Mix peanut butter, 2 tbsp powdered sugar, and cinnamon (if using) until smooth.
  6. 6. Spread peanut butter mixture evenly over dough rectangle.
  7. 7. Tightly roll dough lengthwise into a log, using parchment to help if sticky.
  8. 8. Wrap log in wax paper and chill for 2+ hours until firm.
  9. 9. Slice into 1/2-inch pieces with a sharp knife, cleaning between cuts.
  10. 10. Store between wax paper in an airtight container at room temperature.

Notes

For best results, use russet potatoes. The dough should be play-doh consistency – add more powdered sugar if too sticky. Vintage recipes suggest letting slices ‘cure’ 24 hours for optimal texture.