Potato candy is a classic, old fashioned, depression era candy recipe that has been around for a long time. Mashed potato is used to make a sweet dough that’s wrapped up with peanut butter. 

Pinwheels can be sweet or savory like these vegetable pinwheels, sausage pinwheels and roast beef roll ups. 

Potato and sugar might seem like an unlikely combination but I am here to tell you it works and it’s delicious!

Mashed potato is used to hold this sweet dough together to form these amazing pinwheel confections.  

What is old fashioned potato candy?

This candy gained popularity in the United States during the Great Depression. People used ingredients that were cheap and available like potatoes, to make everything from dinner to dessert. 

Is it the same as Irish potato candy?

They are not the same. Old fashioned potato candy calls for mashed potatoes, powdered sugar and peanut butter. 

Irish potato candy usually doesn’t even contain potato. They are made with coconut cream and cinnamon and just look like potatoes. 

Ingredients needed

The ingredients you need are staples you might already have in your pantry. 

Potato – I recommend using a large, russet potato.

Powdered sugar – This can also be called confectioners sugar. 

Milk – You could also substitute with half and half. 

Vanilla – Vanilla extract adds a little sweetness and warmth.

Peanut butter – Use creamy peanut butter, nut butter, or a nut-free butter. You can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.

How to make potato candy

Scroll to the bottom to watch video and for printable recipe and ingredients. 

1. Prepare: Cook the potato using your preferred method. For this recipe I like to air fry potatoes, or cook them in the oven because it makes for a nice, drier potato. You can peel and boil the potato in water but I have found it can cause the dough to be too wet. ***Let the mashed potato completely cool before using. 
2. Dough: Place cold mashed potatoes in large bowl. Mix in 4 cups of powdered sugar. Mix in vanilla and milk. Keep mixing in powdered sugar, one cup at a time until you reach a total of 6 cups. Dough should be formed. You might need to add an additional cup to get the right consistency.
3. Roll dough: Spread out a piece of wax paper or piece parchment paper on flat surface. Sprinkle heavily with powdered sugar to prevent the potato mixture from sticking. Divide dough into 2 or 3 balls. Roll each dough ball flat, about 1/4 inch thick. Trim off sides to form a rectangle. 
4. Filling: Spread a thin layer of peanut butter over top of rolled out dough. Carefully roll into a log or jelly roll shape, lengthwise or long side, as tight as possible without breaking the dough. 
5. Chill: Wrap up roll in wax paper or parchment and then in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. The longer the better. 
6. Slice: Slice into 1/2 inch circles before serving. 

Recipe tips

• I prefer baking my potato so it’s more dry. You can boil it if you prefer, just be sure to make sure to remove as much water as possible. 
• Be sure to let the potato completely cool. This helps achieve the perfect dough consistency.
• When rolling the dough, sprinkle powdered sugar over wax paper and also over rolling pin to help the dough not stick. Keep sprinkling it on the rolling pin as needed. 
• The dough does dry quickly, so don’t let it sit for too long.
• Make sure to give the rolls long enough in the refrigerator to chill before slicing. If you are in a hurry, place in the freezer for 10-15 minutes. 
• This old-school candy is a great sweet treat to give away at Christmas time or anytime for that matter. 

Variations

You can substitute a few different fillings to replace the peanut butter. 

My son is actually allergic to peanuts so I use Sun butter or Wow butter. 

You could also substitute with any nut butters or a hazelnut spread like Nutella.  

Cookie butter is another great option for a filling.

How to store

Store: This candy stays good for up to two weeks in an airtight container in the refrigerator. 

Freeze: To freeze old fashioned potato candy, Place in a freezer safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Let thaw at room temperature. 

Is old fashioned potato candy the same thing as Irish potato candy?

No, they are two different candy recipes. Old fashioned potato candy is made with mashed potatoes, powdered sugar, and a nut butter. Irish potato candies are a sugary treat with a coconut cream center and a cinnamon exterior that makes them look like small potatoes. 

More delicious dessert recipes

• Blonde brownies – Blondies with white chocolate chips. 
• Cake mix brownies -Delicious, chewy brownies made with cake mix. 
• Cake mix cookie bars – Cookie bars made easy with a cake mix. 
• Bread pudding – Classic bread pudding. 
• Banana pudding – A family favorite dessert. 

*** Did you make this nostalgic dessert? Feel free to leave a comment and rating below if you make this recipe. Enjoy!