This Old Fashioned Easter Candy recipe, passed down through generations, is a beloved holiday tradition. A surprising ingredient makes these unique treats irresistible: mashed potatoes! Don’t let that deter you; the potatoes create a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth filling that perfectly complements the rich chocolate coating. This candy is a guaranteed hit with family and friends, who will be amazed by the secret ingredient.
The Surprising Secret to Perfect Easter Candy
This old fashioned Easter candy’s unique texture and flavor comes from an unlikely source: mashed potatoes. While it may sound unusual, the potatoes bind the sweet ingredients, creating a creamy filling that won’t crumble. You won’t taste the potatoes in the final product; they simply enhance the sweetness and create a delightful texture.
Initially, the idea of potatoes in candy might seem strange. However, they play a crucial role in binding the sugary filling together. The result is a smooth, cohesive mixture that holds its shape when rolled into egg forms.
Tips for Old Fashioned Easter Candy Success
Making this old fashioned Easter candy is easier than you think. Here are some tips for perfect results:
- Freshly Made Mashed Potatoes: Use freshly cooked, unseasoned mashed potatoes. Leftover mashed potatoes with added ingredients will alter the candy’s flavor and texture.
- Cool Potatoes Completely: Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature before mixing with other ingredients. Warm potatoes will melt the sugar and create a runny mess.
- Adjust Sugar as Needed: The dough should be shapeable but not too sticky. Add more powdered sugar if the mixture is too runny.
- Powdered Sugar for Rolling: Dust your hands with powdered sugar to prevent sticking when rolling the dough into egg shapes.
- Chocolate Coating: Semisweet chocolate chips provide a balanced sweetness that complements the filling. Dark chocolate is also a delicious option. Thinning the melted chocolate with a teaspoon of shortening creates a smoother coating.
Making the Candy: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Prepare the Filling: Combine cooled mashed potatoes, softened butter, salt, and powdered sugar using an electric mixer. Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar until the dough is cohesive but not runny. Stir in vanilla extract.
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Chill the Dough: Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least one hour to firm up.
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Shape the Eggs: Roll chilled dough into egg shapes using a tablespoon measure. Place on a wax paper-lined tray and return to the refrigerator while melting the chocolate.
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Melt the Chocolate: Melt chopped chocolate in a double boiler or microwave. If using the microwave, heat in short increments, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
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Coat the Eggs: Dip each egg in the melted chocolate using a fork. Place coated eggs back on the tray and refrigerate until the chocolate hardens.
Enjoy Your Old Fashioned Easter Treat!
This old fashioned Easter candy is a delightful treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. The unique combination of mashed potatoes and chocolate creates a truly unforgettable flavor and texture. This Easter, surprise your loved ones with this classic candy and enjoy the sweet taste of tradition.
