Potato Candy & Potato Joys – Nostalgic Treats from Grandma’s Kitchen
Potato Candy & Potato Joys – Nostalgic Treats from Grandma’s Kitchen
Some recipes carry a story with them. They aren’t just desserts—they’re memories of holidays, family gatherings, and childhood kitchens dusted with flour and sugar. Potato candy and its variation, Potato Joys, are exactly that kind of treat. Simple, unusual, and surprisingly delicious, these candies are proof that sometimes the most unexpected ingredients create the most memorable sweets.
Potato candy might sound odd at first. Using mashed potatoes in a dessert? But once you taste it, the skepticism disappears. The potatoes act as a soft, neutral base that blends beautifully with sugar and peanut butter, creating a smooth, pliable dough that becomes sweet, creamy pinwheels. It’s nostalgic, it’s chewy, and it’s entirely addicting.
Potato Joys take the concept one step further, turning the humble potato into a candy that tastes just like an Almond Joy—without the almonds. Coconut, sugar, and chocolate combine with mashed potato to create a dessert that’s rich, sweet, and indulgent, yet soft and approachable. These treats are easy to make, fun to slice, and perfect for sharing—or hiding in the fridge for yourself.
Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday tray, a family gathering, or just a quiet afternoon treat, both recipes have that old-fashioned charm. They’re the kind of candies that spark conversation and make people ask, “Wait…potatoes in candy? Really?” And when they taste them, they’ll understand immediately.
Potato Candy
Ingredients
1/4 cup unseasoned mashed potatoes
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
1 (16 ounce) package confectioners’ sugar
1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar for dusting
1/3 cup peanut butter, or as needed
Directions
Combine mashed potatoes, milk, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl. Stir confectioners’ sugar into potato mixture until a dough consistency is reached. Refrigerate dough until chilled, about 1 hour. Sprinkle confectioners’ sugar on a cutting board or waxed paper.
Roll dough into a large rectangular shape on prepared surface. Spread enough peanut butter on top layer of dough to cover. Roll dough into a jelly roll shape; refrigerate roll for 1 hour. Slice dough into pinwheels to serve.
Potato Joys – Almond Joy Inspired
Ingredients
1/2 cup unseasoned, well-mashed cooked potato
3 cups powdered (confectioners) sugar
1 cup flaked or shredded coconut
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
3 tablespoons butter
Directions
Bake or microwave the potato until a fork pierces it easily. While the mashed potatoes are still hot, beat in the powdered sugar and coconut; then add the vanilla extract. Press into a lightly greased 8-inch square pan; set aside.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate and butter, stirring occasionally. When melted, pour over top of the potato mixture. Refrigerate until set and then cut into squares. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Tips for Perfect Potato Candy & Potato Joys
For potato candy, use starchy potatoes like Russets. They blend smoothly and provide the right texture for the dough. Make sure the potato is fully mashed and free of lumps before adding sugar for a uniform, pliable dough.
When rolling the dough, lightly dusting the surface with confectioners’ sugar prevents sticking. Spread the peanut butter evenly, but don’t skimp—you want that sweet, salty contrast in every bite. Refrigerating before slicing ensures clean pinwheel shapes.
For Potato Joys, warm mashed potatoes are easier to work with and incorporate better with sugar and coconut. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate topping; melting on low heat prevents it from seizing and keeps it glossy.
Serving Ideas and Occasions
Both Potato Candy and Potato Joys are perfect for holiday trays, potlucks, or gift boxes. They’re bite-sized, portable, and easy to enjoy at any gathering. Potato candy pinwheels are fun for kids to help slice and serve, while Potato Joys offer a more decadent option for chocolate lovers.
Pair them with coffee or tea for a nostalgic afternoon treat, or wrap them individually as small gifts for friends and family. Their unique ingredients and charming appearance make them conversation starters, too.
Storage Tips
Store potato candy and Potato Joys in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Both maintain their texture and flavor for several days. Potato Joys, with their chocolate topping, may also be frozen for longer storage; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, but it will slightly alter the flavor and color. Regular starchy potatoes are recommended for a neutral taste.
Do I have to chill the potato candy dough before rolling?
Yes. Chilling makes it easier to handle and helps the pinwheels hold their shape.
Can I substitute almond butter for peanut butter?
Absolutely. It will change the flavor slightly but works just as well for the rolling step.
Will Potato Joys work without coconut?
Coconut is essential for the Almond Joy flavor, but you could experiment with finely chopped nuts for a different texture.
