Potato candy facts for kids
| Alternative names | Potato candy, peanut butter pinwheel, potato log |
|---|---|
| Type | Candy |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Region or state | Appalachia |
| Main ingredients | Potato, powdered sugar |
| Variations | Sweet potato candy |
The potato candy pinwheel, often called just potato candy, is a sweet treat that doesn't need baking! It's made by mixing mashed potatoes with lots of powdered sugar. This creates a soft, dough-like mixture. Then, a filling, usually peanut butter, is spread on it. The candy is then rolled up into a log shape.
Even though potatoes are a main ingredient, the candy doesn't taste like potatoes at all. Its flavor comes mostly from the powdered sugar and the yummy filling you choose.
Potato candy doesn't go into an oven. Instead, it's chilled in the fridge to make it firm. Once it's hard, you can keep it at room temperature. Most people say potato candy stays fresh for about one to two weeks.
Contents
What is Potato Candy?
Potato candy is a unique type of candy. It gets its name because mashed potatoes are a key part of the recipe. However, the potatoes are mostly there to help create the right texture. They make the candy soft and easy to roll.
How is it Made?
Making potato candy is quite simple. First, mashed potatoes are mixed with a lot of powdered sugar. This creates a sweet, soft "dough." Next, a layer of filling is spread evenly over the dough. The most common filling is creamy peanut butter. Finally, the candy is carefully rolled up tightly. This gives it a spiral, or "pinwheel," look when sliced.
Does it Taste Like Potatoes?
This is a common question! The answer is no, potato candy does not taste like potatoes. The strong flavor of the powdered sugar and the filling, like peanut butter, covers any potato taste. It's a sweet, rich treat that surprises many people.
How Long Does it Last?
After you make potato candy, it needs to be refrigerated to become firm. Once it's ready, you can store it in the fridge or at room temperature. It usually stays fresh and delicious for about one to two weeks. This makes it a great treat to make ahead of time.
Where Did Potato Candy Come From?
The exact beginning of potato candy is a bit of a mystery. Many believe it started with European immigrants who settled in the Appalachian region of the United States. This area includes parts of states like West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
A Treat from Tough Times
Potato candy became very popular during the Great Depression. This was a time in the 1930s when many people faced economic hardship. The candy was a perfect treat because it used simple and inexpensive ingredients. Potatoes and sugar were easy to find and affordable. This made it a sweet comfort food for families during difficult times. While similar recipes might have come from countries like Russia, Ireland, or Germany, potato candy is mostly known in the United States.
Different Kinds of Potato Candy
Even though the classic potato candy uses peanut butter, there are many ways to change the recipe. Some people like to add a little vanilla extract to the potato and sugar mixture. This can give the candy an extra sweet smell and taste.
You can also change the main ingredient. Some recipes use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. This can give the candy a slightly different color and a hint of a sweeter, earthier flavor. For the filling, while peanut butter is traditional, you can try other spreads. Nutella is a popular choice for a chocolate-hazelnut twist!
