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Old-Fashioned 1930s Potato Candy Recipe

This old recipe for potato candy dates back to the 1930s, a time when home cooks turned simple ingredients into sweet treats.
A unique blend of mashed potato and powdered sugar creates a smooth fondant, which is then layered with peanut butter and rolled into a delicious vintage confection.
Prep Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Course Dessert
Servings 24

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small russet potato
  • 6 to 7 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 1 jar (16.3 oz) peanut butter

Instructions
 

  • Peel the potato, cut it into small chunks, and place in a saucepan with enough water to cover. Boil until tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain, mash thoroughly, and measure out ½ cup of the mashed potato. Transfer it to a large mixing bowl and let it cool completely to room temperature.
  • Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, adding one cup at a time. After about six cups, check the consistency—if the dough holds together in a firm ball, stop adding sugar. If it’s still sticky, continue adding more until the dough is firm and can be rolled out easily.
  • Shape the dough into a ball, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate for 40 to 60 minutes. Be careful not to chill it too long, as this could make it brittle.
  • Dust a flat surface liberally with powdered sugar. Divide the chilled dough in half and roll one portion into a rectangle about ⅓ inch thick. Trim any uneven edges.
  • Spread an even layer of peanut butter over the dough, making sure to leave about ½ inch of space around the edges.
  • Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one of the longer sides.
  • Repeat the process with the second half of the dough.
  • Using a sharp knife, slice the logs into ½-inch thick pieces. If the dough feels too soft while cutting, refrigerate the logs for a short time before slicing. Store the finished candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • Since this old-fashioned candy can be quite sticky, dust your work surface generously with powdered sugar before rolling.
  • Lining your counter with parchment paper and dusting it lightly with powdered sugar can make cleanup easier.
  • For a slightly firmer texture, chill the logs before slicing.
Keyword 1930s candy recipe, no-bake candy, classic sweet treats from the past, old recipes, old-fashioned peanut butter candy, potato candy from the Great Depression, simple homemade candy recipe, vintage confection
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