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This beloved old-fashioned candy transforms humble mashed potatoes into a sweet, creamy confection that's sure to spark memories or create new ones. With its striking pinwheel design and perfect balance of sweet dough and nutty peanut butter, this nostalgic treat proves that sometimes the simplest recipes hold the most magic.
I learned this recipe from my grandmother, who told stories of making it during the Depression when ingredients were scarce. Now it's become a treasured part of our family's holiday traditions.
Essential Ingredients
- Russet potatoes: Their starchy texture creates the perfect candy base.
- Powdered sugar: Creates the structure and sweetness.
- Peanut butter: Use creamy for the smoothest rolls.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps with texture.
- Vanilla: Pure extract enhances the sweetness.
Creating Candy Magic
- Step 1:
- Start with completely cooled mashed potatoes to prevent melting the sugar.
- Step 2:
- Mash potatoes until absolutely smooth - lumps will show in the final candy.
- Step 3:
- Add powdered sugar gradually to feel the texture changing.
- Step 4:
- Keep your work surface well-dusted with powdered sugar.
- Step 5:
- Roll the dough to an even thickness for uniform slices.
- Step 6:
- Spread peanut butter thinly and evenly.
- Step 7:
- Use the paper to help you roll tightly.
- Step 8:
- Keep tension consistent while rolling.
- Step 9:
- Wrap immediately to maintain moisture.
- Step 10:
- Chill just until firm for clean cuts.
- Step 11:
- Use a sharp knife for slicing.
- Step 12:
- Clean the knife between cuts.
- Step 13:
- Let slices sit briefly at room temperature before serving.
Every time I make these, the simple process of rolling and slicing reveals those perfect swirls that never fail to delight everyone who sees them.
Perfect Presentation Ideas
- Arrange in paper candy cups.
- Layer between wax paper in decorative tins.
- Package in clear cellophane bags with ribbon.
- Create a candy platter with various sizes.
This candy reminds us that sometimes the most memorable treats come from creative use of simple ingredients.
Every batch of these Potato Candy Pinwheels carries on a sweet tradition that proves good recipes never go out of style. The joy on people's faces when they learn it's made with potatoes makes sharing this treat extra special.