Potato Candy(Or Poor Man'S Candy)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Potato Candy is a nostalgic treat featuring sweet mashed potatoes combined with sugar and vanilla, spread with peanut butter, rolled into a delightful, bite-sized confection perfect for sharing.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large potato
  • 3 to 5 boxes confectioners sugar
  • peanut butter
  • 1 Tbsp vanilla

Instructions

  1. Boil the potato until tender.
  2. Remove the skin from the potato.
  3. Add vanilla to the mashed potato.
  4. Gradually add confectioners sugar until a dough forms, adjusting based on water content.
  5. Roll out the dough on a sugared surface with a rolling pin.
  6. Spread peanut butter evenly over the rolled dough.
  7. Roll the dough into a jelly roll shape about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
  8. Slice the rolled candy into 1/4-inch thick bars.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, ensure the potato is completely mashed without lumps before adding the confectioners sugar. If the mixture is too sticky, add more sugar gradually. You can substitute the peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a twist. Make sure to work on a sugared surface to prevent sticking while rolling out the dough.

Serving Suggestions

These potato candies make a great treat for gatherings or as a sweet snack with coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with Ernestine's Drop Biscuits for a delightful brunch spread. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty contrast that elevates the flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover potato candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a warmer climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain their texture. To enjoy them later, simply take them out and allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Potato Candy(Or Poor Man'S Candy) contains roughly 280 calories, with 9g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

280 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.2g 18% DV
Total Fat 19.1g 25% DV
Carbs 21.9g 8% DV
Fiber 3.1g 11% DV
Sugar 15.5g 31% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 182.7mg 8% DV
Potassium 313.3mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 0.5mg 1% DV
Calcium 17.5mg 1% DV
Iron 0.8mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Peanut

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for regular potatoes. They will add a natural sweetness and a different flavor profile to the candy. Just ensure they are cooked until tender, and adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste preference.

How do I know how much confectioners sugar to add?

Start by adding 3 boxes of confectioners sugar and mix well. The goal is to achieve a dough-like consistency that is not too sticky. If the dough is still too wet, gradually add more sugar until it reaches the desired texture.

Can I freeze potato candy for later use?

Yes, you can freeze potato candy. Wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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