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Old Amish Potato Candy: A Sweet Surprise from Humble Roots

There’s something magical about discovering a dessert that seems almost too simple, too humble, to be truly extraordinary. For me, that enchantment arrived in the form of Old Amish Potato Candy. I remember the first time I encountered it, not in a grand bakery, but on a simple farmhouse table, nestled amongst jars of preserves and loaves of hearty bread. Its unassuming appearance belied a depth of flavor and a delightful chewiness that immediately captivated my palate. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of simple ingredients, proving that even the most basic pantry staples can be transformed into something truly special, a sweet secret passed down through generations.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required for the candy itself)
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Servings: 20 (estimated, depending on ball size)
Yield: Approximately 20-25 candies
Dietary Type: Vegetarian (can be made Vegan with modifications)

Ingredients

This recipe, like many traditional Amish confections, relies on a few pantry staples to create something truly unique. The beauty lies in its simplicity, transforming everyday ingredients into a delightful sweet treat.

1⁄2 cup mashed potatoes: It’s crucial that these are plain mashed potatoes, free from butter, milk, or seasoning. Leftovers from a simple boiled and mashed potato are perfect. Ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
2 teaspoons butter, softened: Using softened butter ensures it incorporates smoothly into the potato mixture without creating lumps.
4 tablespoons cocoa: Unsweetened cocoa powder is key here for that rich, chocolatey base.
1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that rounds out the sweetness and chocolate notes.
4 1⁄2 cups confectioners’ sugar: Also known as powdered sugar or icing sugar, this provides the sweetness and helps bind the ingredients together.
2 1⁄2 cups flaked coconut: Sweetened or unsweetened flaked coconut will work, though sweetened will add a touch more sweetness to the final candy.
3⁄4 cup whole pecans: These are pressed into the center of each candy, providing a delightful crunch and nutty contrast.

Equipment Needed

While this recipe doesn’t require a long list of specialized equipment, a few basic kitchen tools will make the process smoother:

Large mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurement.
Spatula or wooden spoon: For mixing and kneading the dough.
Parchment paper or wax paper: For lining a baking sheet or serving platter.
Airtight container: For storing the finished candies.

Instructions

This Old Amish Potato Candy is remarkably straightforward to prepare, relying on simple mixing and shaping rather than any baking or cooking. The magic happens as the ingredients come together to form a pliable, sweet dough.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, softened butter, cocoa, and vanilla extract.
Begin to gradually blend these initial ingredients together. You can use a spatula or your hands for this initial stage.
Gradually blend in the confectioners’ sugar, incorporating it a little at a time. As you add the sugar, the mixture will begin to thicken and transform into a dough-like consistency.
Next, blend in the flaked coconut. Continue mixing until everything is well incorporated and you have a cohesive, pliable mixture.
Once the ingredients are thoroughly combined, it’s time to knead the mixture until it’s completely smooth and uniform. This ensures all the ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a consistent texture throughout the candies. You may find it easier to do this on a clean countertop, lightly dusted with a little extra confectioners’ sugar if the dough is too sticky.
Take portions of the dough and shape them into one-inch balls. Aim for consistent sizing so that the candies are uniform.
Gently press one whole pecan into the center of each ball. The pecan should be partially embedded, creating a visually appealing and texturally interesting candy.
For optimal flavor and texture development, it’s best to wrap each candy individually in foil. This helps keep them fresh and prevents them from drying out.
Finally, store the wrapped candies in an airtight container. For the best results, allow them to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the candy to firm up nicely.

Expert Tips & Tricks

The simplicity of this recipe allows for a few subtle enhancements and considerations to elevate your potato candy experience.

Potato Perfection: The key to good potato candy is the quality of your mashed potatoes. Ensure they are made from starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds, boiled until tender and mashed without any added milk, butter, or seasonings. Any extra moisture can lead to a sticky, unmanageable dough. If your mashed potatoes seem a bit wet, you can gently press them through a fine-mesh sieve or spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them air dry slightly before measuring.
Cocoa Quality Matters: While any unsweetened cocoa powder will work, using a high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa will yield a richer, smoother chocolate flavor.
Kneading Nuances: Don’t over-knead the dough. You’re looking for a smooth, cohesive mass, not a tough dough. Over-kneading can develop gluten if there’s any residual flour in your potatoes, leading to a chewier, less tender candy.
The Coconut Factor: If you find the texture of flaked coconut too pronounced, you can pulse it a few times in a food processor before adding it to the mixture. This will create finer pieces that integrate more seamlessly.
Pecan Placement: Pressing the pecan in gently ensures it stays put without squishing the candy ball too much. A slight dimple is all you need.
Chilling is Key: Don’t skip the chilling step. It’s not just about firming the candy; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The subtle potato base, the chocolate, and the coconut all become more harmonious after a good chill.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These charming potato candies are wonderfully versatile and make a delightful addition to any dessert spread.

Serve your Old Amish Potato Candies chilled, directly from the refrigerator. They are a perfect after-dinner treat, a welcome addition to a cookie platter, or a unique sweet offering for potlucks and gatherings. Their nostalgic charm makes them a hit with all ages.

For storage, keep the wrapped candies in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, though they are best enjoyed chilled. In the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent them from absorbing odors. While freezing is an option for long-term storage, the texture might change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil, and they should last for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for Old Amish Potato Candy. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and exact measurements.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	187 kcal	9%
Total Fat	6.2 g	8%
Saturated Fat	3.1 g	15%
Trans Fat	0 g
Cholesterol	1.1 mg	0%
Sodium	42.5 mg	2%
Total Carbohydrate	33.3 g	12%
Dietary Fiber	1 g	4%
Total Sugars	30.7 g	61%
Added Sugars	29.7 g	59%
Protein	0.9 g	2%
Vitamin D	0 mcg	0%
Calcium	10 mg	1%
Iron	0.3 mg	2%
Potassium	65 mg	1%

Nutritional values calculated using an online recipe analyzer based on the provided ingredients and quantities. Actual values may vary.

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic Old Amish Potato Candy is a beloved tradition, there’s always room for a touch of personal flair.

For a Vegan Twist: To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the butter with vegan butter or a neutral-flavored oil like coconut oil (solidified at room temperature). Ensure your mashed potatoes are prepared without dairy.
Nut-Free Option: If you have nut allergies, you can omit the pecans entirely. Alternatively, you could press a large chocolate chip or a candied cherry into the center for a different visual and flavor profile.
Spice it Up: For a hint of warmth, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a tiny amount of nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra touch of decadence, once the candies are fully formed and chilled, you can drizzle them with melted chocolate (dark, milk, or white) before they are wrapped.

FAQs

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
A: It’s best to use plain, homemade mashed potatoes. Instant mashed potatoes often contain additives that can affect the texture and flavor of the candy.

Q: My candy mixture is too sticky. What can I do?
A: Gradually add more confectioners’ sugar, a tablespoon at a time, and continue kneading until the dough is manageable. You can also lightly dust your hands and the work surface with confectioners’ sugar.

Q: How long do these candies need to chill?
A: Chilling for at least an hour is recommended to allow the flavors to meld and the candy to firm up. You can chill them for longer if needed.

Q: Can I add more than one pecan to each candy?
A: While the traditional recipe calls for one, feel free to experiment with how you incorporate nuts or other additions to your liking.

Q: What kind of potatoes are best for this recipe?
A: Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal for achieving the right mashed texture without excess moisture.

Final Thoughts

The enduring charm of Old Amish Potato Candy lies in its beautiful simplicity and its ability to transform the humble into the extraordinary. It’s a recipe that whispers tales of resourcefulness and comfort, a sweet legacy passed down through generations. Whether you’re revisiting a childhood favorite or discovering this unique confection for the first time, I encourage you to embrace the process, savor the delightful results, and perhaps even share this little piece of culinary history with those you cherish. These candies are a perfect accompaniment to a strong cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk, a reminder that the most delightful surprises often come from the most unexpected places.

Old Amish Potato Candy Recipe