Potato candy was my mother’s signature Christmas treat.  She used food coloring to create 1 red and 1 green roll each year. Fun to make and even more fun to eat.  Don’t let the curious combination be off putting, it’s amazing.  

Ingredients:

• 1 medium-sized potato (about 1 cup mashed)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch of salt
• Approximately 4 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
• 1 cup smooth peanut butter

Instructions:

• Prepare the Potato:
  • Peel and boil the potato until it’s soft.
  • Mash the potato thoroughly, ensuring there are no lumps.
• Mix Ingredients:
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potato, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
  • Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until you achieve a dough-like consistency. Mix well after each addition.
• Roll Out the Candy:
  • Sprinkle a clean surface or a piece of wax paper with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
  • Roll out the potato mixture into a rectangle or square shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
• Spread Peanut Butter:
  • Spread a layer of smooth peanut butter evenly over the rolled-out potato mixture.
• Roll Up the Candy:
  • Carefully roll the potato candy into a log, starting from one end. You can use the wax paper to help with the rolling.
• Chill and Slice:
  • Wrap the rolled candy in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to firm up.
  • Once chilled, unwrap and slice the candy log into bite-sized pieces.
• Serve:
  • Arrange the sliced potato candy on a plate and serve. Enjoy your sweet and unique treat!

This potato candy recipe is a simple and fun way to make a delicious treat. Feel free to experiment with the filling or add a dusting of powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1 gallon (about 4 liters) apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 10-12 whole cloves
• 4-6 cinnamon sticks
• 1-2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1-2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1-2 cups dark rum or brandy (optional)
• Sliced oranges and cinnamon sticks for garnish

Instructions:

• Prepare the Spices:
  • In a small cheesecloth or a spice bag, tie up the whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. This will make it easier to remove the spices later.
• Combine Ingredients:
  • In a large pot or slow cooker, combine the apple cider, orange juice, pineapple juice, and lemon juice.
• Add Spices:
  • Place the spice bundle into the pot, and add brown sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
• Warm the Wassail:
  • Heat the mixture over medium heat on the stove or set the slow cooker to low. Allow it to warm through, but avoid boiling.
• Infuse Flavors:
  • Let the wassail simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
• Add Alcohol (Optional):
  • If you’re adding alcohol, stir in the rum or brandy a few minutes before serving. Be cautious not to boil the mixture if adding alcohol.
• Serve:
  • Remove the spice bundle.
  • Ladle the wassail into mugs or cups.
  • Garnish with sliced oranges and additional cinnamon sticks.
• Enjoy:
  • Serve the wassail warm and enjoy the festive flavors.

Wassail is a versatile beverage, and you can adjust the sweetness and spice levels to suit your taste. It’s a delightful drink to share during holiday gatherings or cold winter evenings.