If you’re on the hunt for a nostalgic treat that’s equal parts quirky and delicious, you have to try this one — the Potato Candy Pinwheels with Peanut Butter Recipe is an absolute gem. It’s that old-fashioned sweet roll-up that’s made with mashed potatoes, powdered sugar, and creamy peanut butter, all rolled into a beautiful pinwheel that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll get why I keep coming back to it in my family’s recipe box!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unexpected Ingredient: Using mashed potatoes creates a uniquely soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture you won’t find in typical candies.
- Simple & Classic: Just a handful of ingredients, most likely already in your kitchen, come together to make this timeless dessert.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Rolling and slicing the pinwheels is a great hands-on activity that kids adore helping with.
- Make-Ahead Magic: It stores well, so you can prepare it ahead for holidays or special gatherings with zero stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is surprisingly straightforward but the magic is how these ingredients work in harmony. The mashed potatoes lend moisture and softness without adding a potato flavor—just a wonderful, tender structure—while the powdered sugar and peanut butter bring sweetness and richness. A quick tip: When choosing your peanut butter, go for a creamy one for easy spreading!
- Mashed potatoes: Use plain, unsalted mashed potatoes without any milk or butter added; leftover potatoes work perfectly.
- Salted butter: Softened butter gives that rich taste and helps bind the candy dough nicely.
- Powdered sugar: Adding this gradually is key to achieving the right dough consistency—don’t skip the dusting, it keeps things from sticking.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash amps up the flavor with a warm, sweet note.
- Creamy peanut butter: For spreading inside the pinwheels, creamy is best because it glides smoothly and pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
Variations
I love how versatile the Potato Candy Pinwheels with Peanut Butter Recipe can be. While I stick to the classic version most of the time, I’ve played around with a few tweaks to keep things interesting. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!
- Nut-free variation: I swapped the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter once when a guest had allergies — it was just as creamy and delicious.
- Chocolate peanut butter swirl: For a richer treat, try mixing a little cocoa powder right into the peanut butter before spreading.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt: I sometimes sprinkle flaky sea salt on the peanut butter layer for a salty-sweet balance that makes these pinwheels irresistible.
- Mini pinwheels: Rolling smaller logs and slicing into bite-size treats is perfect for parties or lunchbox snacks.
How to Make Potato Candy Pinwheels with Peanut Butter Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Base Ingredients
Start by combining your plain mashed potatoes, softened salted butter, and one cup of powdered sugar in a large bowl. Use an electric mixer to blend until everything is just coming together into a creamy base. This initial step is crucial because it creates the foundation of your candy dough. Pro tip: If your potatoes are a bit warm, let them cool to room temperature so the butter doesn’t melt prematurely.
Step 2: Add Sugar Gradually Until Dough Forms
Next, add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once you’ve added about 6 cups, check the dough’s consistency. It should be firm enough to mold with your hands but not crumbly. If it’s still sticky and won’t hold shape, sprinkle in more sugar bit by bit. Remember, patience here pays off because the right texture means your dough will roll smoothly without falling apart.
Step 3: Stir in Vanilla and Chill
Once your dough is the perfect consistency, stir in the vanilla extract for a burst of flavor. Then, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period firms up the dough so it’s easier to handle. I’ve found that chilling too long makes it brittle, so if that happens, just let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before rolling.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Divide the dough into two. Dust your work surface and the dough with powdered sugar and roll out a piece into a roughly 8×12-inch rectangle about ¼ inch thick. If it starts tearing or sticking, sprinkle a little more sugar and reshape it gently into a ball before trying again. This step takes a bit of finesse but you’ll quickly get the hang of it!
Step 5: Spread the Peanut Butter and Roll
Spread a generous, even layer of creamy peanut butter over your dough rectangle, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. Then, starting with the longer side, roll it up tightly but gently, aiming for a firm, log shape. This rolling part is so satisfying — you’ll feel like a pro by the second round!
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Using a sharp, thin-bladed knife—or a harp knife if you have one—cut the log into ¼ to ½-inch slices. Repeat everything with the second half of the dough. These pinwheels look downright pretty on a plate, and trust me, they disappear fast. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll keep well for about a week.
Pro Tips for Making Potato Candy Pinwheels with Peanut Butter Recipe
- Perfect Dough Texture: If your dough feels too sticky, add powdered sugar tablespoon by tablespoon, but be careful not to over-sweeten.
- Even Rolling: Roll your dough slowly and firmly to avoid cracks in your candy log — a light dusting of sugar helps keep the layers smooth.
- Knife Choice Matters: Using a thin, sharp knife makes slicing clean pinwheels easier and prevents squishing.
- Room Temp Rescue: If the dough becomes too hard in the fridge, let it rest at room temp before rolling; warm hands can also help gently soften it.
How to Serve Potato Candy Pinwheels with Peanut Butter Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep it simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar on top for that classic snowy look, but sometimes I sprinkle a few chopped peanuts or even a drizzle of melted chocolate to amp up the decadence. I find that a little sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a wonderful contrast to the sweetness, too.
Side Dishes
These pinwheels shine as a sweet bite alongside a cup of coffee or tea. For a party, I like pairing them with fresh fruit platters — the freshness balances out the sweetness beautifully. They’re also fantastic alongside simple vanilla ice cream for a fun dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve rolled minis and arranged them in colorful cupcake liners, turning them into perfect bite-size treats for kids’ parties. I also love stacking them in a spiral tower on a decorative platter for a charming holiday centerpiece. Get creative by swirling in different nut butters or adding a splash of crushed candy canes for a festive twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and chewy for up to a week, which makes them great for prepping early for a party or grabbing a sweet snack on a busy day.
Freezing
I’ve frozen potato candy pinwheels before, and they freeze beautifully! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for an hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you want some candy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight — they keep their texture and flavor surprisingly well.
Reheating
Because these are candy pinwheels, I usually just enjoy them cold or at room temperature. But if the dough feels a little firm from chilling, just letting them rest out for 10 minutes softens them perfectly. Avoid microwaving though, as it can make them overly sticky or oily.
FAQs
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Can I use instant mashed potatoes in Potato Candy Pinwheels with Peanut Butter Recipe?
It’s best to use real mashed potatoes made from fresh or boiled potatoes without any added seasonings or dairy. Instant mashed potatoes often have additives that can alter the texture and flavor of the candy dough, making it less pliable or too dry.
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How do I know when the dough is the right consistency?
The dough should be firm but pliable, moldable in your hands without sticking excessively or cracking. If it doesn’t hold together or feels too sticky, add more powdered sugar gradually until it reaches that doughy, manageable texture.
- What if my dough cracks when rolling up the pinwheels?
Cracking usually means the dough is too dry or cold. Let it warm slightly at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, then roll more gently. Adding a tiny bit more powdered sugar and kneading it lightly can help keep it together too.
- Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
While you can use crunchy peanut butter, I recommend creamy for smoother spreading and a consistent texture inside the pinwheels. Crunchy varieties might cause uneven rolling or tearing of the dough.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this Potato Candy Pinwheels with Peanut Butter Recipe brings together simple pantry ingredients into a charming treat that feels like a warm hug from the past. When I first tried it, I was surprised just how tender and sweet it turned out, without being overwhelmingly sugary. Sharing these in my family sparked so many “remember when” stories and smiles. I can’t recommend making these enough — once you give them a whirl, you’ll see why they’re a cherished classic. So, roll up your sleeves, grab those potatoes, and get ready to impress your loved ones with a candy that’s truly one-of-a-kind!
Print
Potato Candy Pinwheels with Peanut Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 170 minutes
- Yield: 40 slices
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Potato Candy is a nostalgic, sweet treat made with a unique dough of mashed potatoes, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla, rolled with a creamy peanut butter filling. This easy-to-make no-bake candy features a soft, pliable dough that is rolled out, spread with peanut butter, and sliced into delightful pinwheel slices, offering a perfect combination of creamy and sweet flavors with a hint of potato richness.
Ingredients
Dough
- ½ cup plain mashed potatoes (see recipe notes for cooking instructions)
- ½ cup salted butter (softened)
- 6-7 cups powdered sugar (plus additional for dusting)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Filling
- Creamy peanut butter (for filling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, softened salted butter, and 1 cup of powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, blend these ingredients together until fully combined and smooth.
- Add Sugar Gradually: Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once 6 cups have been incorporated, check the dough’s consistency. If it is not firm enough to mold or roll into a ball, continue adding powdered sugar until the dough becomes firm and moldable.
- Incorporate Vanilla: Stir in the 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract evenly through the dough to infuse flavor.
- Chill the Dough: Place the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 to 60 minutes to chill. Be cautious not to chill for too long, as it might become too firm and brittle. If that happens, allow it to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to regain pliability.
- Roll Out the Dough: After chilling, divide the dough into two equal pieces. On a clean surface generously dusted with powdered sugar, place one piece of dough. Also dust the dough surface with powdered sugar. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick and approximately 8 by 12 inches in size. If the dough is sticky or crumbling, add more powdered sugar, reshape, and roll again.
- Spread Peanut Butter: Evenly spread creamy peanut butter over the rolled-out dough rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges free of peanut butter.
- Roll Into a Log: Starting from the longer side of the rectangle, carefully but tightly roll the dough into a log shape.
- Slice the Candy: Using a sharp knife or harp knife, slice the rolled log into pinwheel slices about ¼ to ½ inch thick.
- Repeat for Second Half: Repeat steps 5 through 8 with the remaining half of the dough to complete the batch.
- Serve and Store: Serve the potato candy pinwheels immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- This classic family recipe, sometimes called Peanut Butter Pinwheels, is a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of homemade confections.
- For best results, prepare the mashed potatoes without added seasoning or butter to avoid interfering with the dough.
- If the dough becomes too stiff after chilling, let it warm slightly at room temperature to soften before rolling.
- Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to achieve the desired dough consistency; it should be firm but pliable enough to roll without cracking.
- Use a harp knife or very sharp knife to obtain clean, neat slices of candy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel slice
- Calories: 94 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 22 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 6 mg
