Peanut Butter Pinwheel Candy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peanut Butter Pinwheel Candy is an easy, no-bake, make-ahead sweet that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat. The smooth peanut butter and melt-in-your-mouth sugar dough create an irresistible combination of sweet and salty. Plus, the use of mashed potatoes may sound surprising, but it gives the candy the perfect pliable texture without adding flavor, making this a vintage recipe with lasting appeal.

Ingredients

• ½ cup mashed potatoes (plain, cooled and unseasoned)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 5–6 cups powdered sugar (as needed to form a stiff dough)

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Dough:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Make sure your mashed potatoes are smooth and fully cooled. Avoid using leftover mashed potatoes that contain butter, cream, or seasonings.

2. Add Vanilla: Stir the vanilla extract into the mashed potatoes.

3. Add the Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, stirring until a stiff dough forms. You may need up to 6 cups, depending on moisture content. The dough should be pliable but not sticky.

Roll and Fill:

4. Roll Out the Dough: Dust a clean surface with powdered sugar and roll the dough into a large rectangle, about ¼-inch thick.

5. Spread the Peanut Butter: Gently spread a thin, even layer of peanut butter over the dough rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges.

Roll and Slice:

6. Roll Into a Log: Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, jelly-roll style. If the dough is too soft, refrigerate it for 10–15 minutes before rolling.

7. Chill the Roll: Wrap the log in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.

8. Slice into Pinwheels: Once chilled, unwrap and slice the log into ¼ to ½-inch thick rounds.

Serve:

9. Serve or Store: Arrange the pinwheels on a tray and serve, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Enjoy!

These sweet and creamy pinwheels are a perfect bite-sized treat that’s sure to impress with their charming look and delicious flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24–30 pieces

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter or almond butter if allergic to peanuts.

• Chocolate Twist: Mix a tablespoon of cocoa powder into the dough for a chocolatey base.

• Swirl In Jam: Add a thin layer of jelly or jam along with the peanut butter for a PB&J-style candy.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

• Freezing: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

• Reheating: Not necessary—serve these chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Why use mashed potatoes in candy?

Mashed potatoes act as a neutral, starchy base that gives the dough a smooth and moldable texture without affecting the flavor.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, as long as they’re plain and unseasoned. Prepare them with only water and follow the package directions.

Is this candy too sweet?

The candy is sweet, but the peanut butter adds a nice balance. You can reduce the powdered sugar slightly for a less sweet version.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Peanut Butter Pinwheel Candy is great for making ahead—it stores well and actually slices better when chilled.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Pinwheel Candy is a charming, no-bake treat that’s simple to make and full of old-fashioned flavor. With its creamy filling, sweet dough, and eye-catching swirls, it’s the perfect addition to holiday platters, dessert tables, or a nostalgic snack spread. Easy, unique, and oh-so-delicious, this vintage candy is sure to be a hit with all ages!