Classic Potato Candy: A Time-Honored Treat

Although it may raise eyebrows, the sight of rolled potato candy is a familiar one during the festive season, particularly around Christmas. Yet, if you’re encountering it for the first time, the notion of potatoes in candy might seem peculiar. Rest assured, it’s a surprising yet delightful combination.

The humble potato serves as a binding agent in this confectionery creation, ensuring a smooth texture without imparting any discernible potato flavor. The result? A decadently sweet, no-bake treat that showcases ingenuity at its finest.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups powdered sugar (plus extra if needed)
• 1/2 cup mashed russet potato (approximately 1 large potato, cooled)
• 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potato, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed for approximately 2 minutes until well blended.
2. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar into the mixture, adding it one cup at a time. Continue mixing until a thick dough forms. If necessary, adjust the consistency by adding additional powdered sugar in small increments. The dough should have a consistency slightly thicker than that of cookie dough.
3. Shape the dough into a ball and dust it lightly with powdered sugar. Place the ball of dough onto a sheet of wax or parchment paper. Roll the dough out into a rectangle approximately 1/8 inch thick, trimming it to a size of 10×12 inches.
4. Sprinkle a generous amount of powdered sugar over the surface of the dough. Place another sheet of parchment paper on top of the sugared dough, then carefully flip the entire assembly over. Peel away the parchment paper that was initially on top (the one used during rolling).
5. Evenly spread the creamy peanut butter over the surface of the dough, ensuring a smooth layer.
6. Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight cylinder, using the parchment paper as a guide. Roll it up jelly-roll style.
7. Wrap the rolled dough in parchment paper and place it in the freezer for approximately 1 hour to firm up.
8. Once chilled, remove the dough from the freezer and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
9. Serve and enjoy! Any leftover candy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Indulge in this delightful rendition of classic potato candy, a nostalgic treat that never fails to impress.