Soft, sweet, and delightfully nostalgic, Easy Potato Candy is one of those old-fashioned treats that continues to charm each new generation. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a candy that tastes like childhood memories wrapped in creamy, melt-in-your-mouth layers.

It might sound surprising, but mashed potatoes are the star of this recipe. They give the dough its silky texture and help balance the sweetness of the powdered sugar. Paired with a swirl of creamy peanut butter, each bite becomes an indulgent little treasure. No candy thermometer required!

What Kind of Potato Should I Use?

Stick to starchy potatoes like russets for best results. Their dry texture means they won’t water down the dough. Avoid waxy varieties like red or fingerling potatoes—they contain more moisture and can make the candy mixture sticky or too soft.

Ingredients for the Easy Potato Candy

Russet Potato: Provides a starchy, dry base that gives structure to the candy.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the dough and firms it up as it absorbs moisture from the potato.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the overall flavor.
Creamy Peanut Butter: Brings a salty, rich contrast to the sugary potato dough.
Salt (Optional): A pinch can help enhance the balance of flavors.

How To Make the Easy Potato Candy

Step 1: Cook and Mash the Potato

Peel one medium russet potato and boil it until fork-tender. Drain and mash completely until smooth—lumps will affect the texture of your candy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, gradually add powdered sugar to the mashed potato, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if using. The mixture will transform into a thick, pliable dough.

Step 3: Roll It Out

Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper or wax paper. Roll it into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle. If it’s sticky, sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar.

Step 4: Add the Peanut Butter

Spread a thin, even layer of creamy peanut butter over the dough. Be gentle to avoid tearing it.

Step 5: Roll and Chill

Using the parchment paper to guide you, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, jelly-roll style. Wrap it in the paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, unwrap the log and slice into 1/2-inch pieces. Enjoy immediately or store for later.

How to Serve and Store Easy Potato Candy

This candy is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature for a soft bite. It’s a hit on dessert trays, at holiday parties, or tucked into lunch boxes for a sweet surprise.

To store, place the slices in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Keep in the fridge for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to a month—just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

It’s best to use plain, freshly mashed potatoes. Leftovers often contain butter, milk, and salt, which can throw off the texture and flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the base ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your powdered sugar and peanut butter labels.

Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Absolutely. Almond butter or any other nut or seed butter works great if you want a twist or need a peanut-free version.

My dough is too sticky. What should I do?

Add more powdered sugar a little at a time until the dough becomes firm and workable.

Can I make this candy ahead of time?

Yes, this candy is great for prepping ahead. You can make it up to a week in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer.

Do I need to refrigerate the candy?

Yes, refrigeration helps it firm up and keeps it fresh longer.

Want More Dessert Ideas?

If you loved this Easy Potato Candy, you’ll probably enjoy these sweet treats too:

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats for a crunchy, no-bake classic.
Homemade Caramel Marshmallows if you’re craving something gooey and sweet.
Condensed Milk Chocolate Truffles for a rich, creamy bite-size indulgence.
Sweet Cream Pancake Bites when you want dessert for breakfast.
No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Bars if you need something zesty and fresh.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with peanut butter or try something new? Maybe Nutella? I love seeing all the ways you make these treats your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other out in the kitchen.

Easy Potato Candy

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: About 30 pieces

Print Recipe

Description

A nostalgic no-bake treat made with mashed potatoes, powdered sugar, and a swirl of creamy peanut butter. This old-fashioned candy is soft, sweet, and incredibly simple to make—perfect for holidays, gift boxes, or a retro dessert tray.

Ingredients

1 medium russet potato, peeled and cubed

6 to 8 cups powdered sugar (as needed)

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

Boil the cubed potato until fork-tender, then mash until completely smooth.
In a mixing bowl, gradually add powdered sugar to the mashed potato, stirring after each addition, until a dough forms.
Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if using.
Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle.
Spread the peanut butter evenly over the dough.
Carefully roll the dough into a log, jelly-roll style, using the paper to guide you.
Wrap the log in parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Slice into 1/2-inch rounds and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Desserts