Potato fudge might sound unusual, but this vintage treat is a delightful surprise! Made with mashed potatoes, cocoa, and powdered sugar, this creamy, chocolatey dessert has an old-fashioned charm and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s perfect for using leftover spuds and surprising guests with something both nostalgic and delicious.
This guide will walk you through the steps to make creamy potato fudge from scratch, using simple pantry ingredients. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving a unique homemade candy, this recipe delivers sweetness and simplicity in every square.
How to Make Potato Fudge
Smooth, rich, and chocolatey, potato fudge is an unexpected way to transform basic ingredients into a decadent dessert. It’s especially great during holidays or when you have leftover mashed potatoes on hand.
Ingredients
Fudge Base:
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½ cup mashed potatoes (plain, no butter or seasoning)
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½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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¼ tsp salt
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4 cups powdered sugar
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½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Preparing Instructions
Step 1: Mash the Potatoes
Make sure your mashed potatoes are smooth and cooled. Use a fork or mixer to eliminate lumps.
Step 2: Combine Fudge Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, add mashed potatoes, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt. Mix well. Gradually stir in powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until thick and fudge-like.
Step 3: Add Nuts (Optional)
Fold in chopped nuts if using. This adds crunch and balances the sweetness.
Step 4: Shape and Chill
Spread mixture evenly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan. Flatten with a spatula. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours or until firm.
Step 5: Cut and Serve
Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!
Servings
Serves: 16 squares
Presentation & Decoration
Garnish Ideas:
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Dust with powdered sugar for a festive look
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Sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast
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Add chocolate shavings or drizzle with melted chocolate
Serving Suggestions
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Great on dessert trays or candy platters
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Pack into gift boxes for holidays or birthdays
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Pair with tea or coffee for an afternoon treat
Best Time to Eat
Holiday Highlight: A nostalgic addition to Christmas or Easter tables
Rainy Day Treat: Perfect for cozying up indoors
Budget-Friendly Dessert: Delicious and made with leftovers
Portion Guide
Individual: 1–2 squares per person
Group: Double for a 9×13-inch pan (serves 30–32 squares)
Storage & Shelf Life
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Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container up to 7 days
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Freezing: Freeze in layers with wax paper for up to 2 months
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Serving Tip: Let thaw at room temp for 15–20 minutes before serving
Allergy Guide
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Gluten-Free: Naturally GF if using certified GF powdered sugar
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Nut-Free: Skip nuts to make allergy-friendly
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Dairy-Free: 100% dairy-free if you use dairy-free cocoa
More Recipes Using Mashed Potatoes
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Potato Candy: Peanut butter–filled confection made from mashed potatoes
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Mashed Potato Doughnuts: Soft and fluffy fried treats
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Shepherd’s Pie: Classic comfort food using leftover mash as a topping
Tag your creations with and show off your sweet side with this old-school candy delight—we’d love to see your twist on this classic!
Emily is a devoted wife, mother, and passionate home cook who finds joy in creating comforting meals straight from her kitchen. When she’s not busy managing the household or helping out on her husband’s farm, she spends her time baking delicious treats that have become a favorite among friends and neighbors. Emily believes that food is more than just nourishment—it’s a way to bring people together and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a freshly baked pie or a hearty home-cooked dinner, her love for cooking shines through in every dish she makes.