Old Fashioned Potato Candy: A Sweet Nostalgic Treat
When you think of candy, images of chocolate bars and gummy bears likely come to mind. But have you ever heard of Old Fashioned Potato Candy? This delightful treat combines the unexpected ingredient of potato with creamy peanut butter and a sprinkle of vanilla. The result? A sweet, chewy candy that evokes memories of childhood and simpler times. Did you know that this unique candy hails from the era of the Great Depression? It was a clever way to stretch limited resources into something truly special. Not only is this candy easy to make, but it’s also a wonderful way to involve the whole family in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- Key Ingredients for Old Fashioned Potato Candy
- 1 small potato peeled and chopped
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 2 lb bag powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter or more, as needed
Instructions
- Cook the Potato: Start by boiling the peeled and chopped potato in a small pot of water until it’s tender. Drain the potato and mash it until it’s smooth and lump-free.
- Mix in Vanilla and Sugar: While the mashed potato is still warm, stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the mixture forms a stiff dough that holds together.
- Roll Out Dough: Place the dough on a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper. Using a rolling pin, roll it out into a rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Spread Peanut Butter: Take the creamy peanut butter and spread a thin, even layer over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough.
- Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the dough into a log, using the parchment paper to help roll it tightly. Once you’ve formed the log, slice it into 1/4-inch thick pieces.
- Set: Finally, place the slices on a plate or baking sheet and allow them to sit at room temperature until they firm up.
- What to Serve Old Fashioned Potato Candy With
- This sweet treat is perfect on its own, but if you’re looking to enhance your dessert spread, consider serving it alongside a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee. For a fun twist, pair it with some vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience!
- Top Tips for Perfecting Old Fashioned Potato Candy
- To make your Old Fashioned Potato Candy even better, consider these top tips:
- Potato Options: While using a small potato works well, feel free to experiment with sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
- Texture Control: If you prefer a firmer candy, simply add more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Flavor Variations: Want to switch things up? Try adding chopped nuts or your favorite candy sprinkles for added texture and flavor!
- Storing and Reheating Tips
- Once you’ve made your Old Fashioned Potato Candy, proper storage is key! Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it to keep it fresh for up to two weeks, though allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste. If you have leftovers and wish to enjoy them later, consider freezing the sliced candy. Wrap each piece in wax paper, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw them at room temperature and enjoy your sweet creation!
- In conclusion, Old Fashioned Potato Candy is a delightful treat that brings a touch of nostalgia and a burst of flavor to your dessert table. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or simply for yourself, this easy recipe is bound to become a favorite. So gather those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to whip up a batch of this delicious candy. Happy cooking!