Potato In Desserts? Here Are 5 Surprising Recipes To Try

Potatoes are commonly associated with savoury dishes such as fries, mashed potatoes, or baked potatoes. However, these humble tubers possess a versatility that extends beyond traditional savoury cuisine. Potatoes are indeed a versatile ingredient that can take centre stage in a variety of dishes, thanks to their natural sweetness and creamy texture. When it comes to creating delectable desserts, potatoes can serve as a surprising and innovative ingredient. 

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Potatoes are considered a versatile ingredient due to their ability to adapt to various cooking methods and their wide range of culinary applications. They can be boiled, baked, roasted, fried, mashed, or even used in soups, stews, and salads. The neutral taste and starchy texture of potatoes make them an excellent base for both savoury and sweet dishes. Their versatility lies in the fact that they can be transformed into a variety of forms and textures.. Furthermore, potatoes can absorb and complement the flavours of other ingredients, making them a versatile and adaptable component in countless recipes. 

Whether used as a side dish, a main ingredient, or even in desserts, potatoes offer a wealth of possibilities and are appreciated for their ability to enhance the taste, texture, and overall appeal of a wide range of dishes.

1. Potato Chocolate Cake

Potato chocolate cake is a unique and delicious dessert that combines the rich flavour of chocolate with the moistness of potatoes. The potatoes add a velvety texture and enhance the overall taste of the cake. It's a perfect treat for chocolate lovers and a great way to use up any leftover potatoes you may have.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized potatoes
• 1 and ½  cups of all-purpose flour
• ½  cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 and ½  teaspoons baking powder
• ½  teaspoon baking soda
• ¼  teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½  cup unsalted butter softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½  cup buttermilk
• ½  cup hot water

For the chocolate ganache (optional):

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• ½  cup heavy cream

Method:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
• Peel the potatoes and cut them into small pieces. Boil the potatoes in a pot of water until they are soft and easily mashed. Drain the potatoes and mash them until smooth. Set aside.
• In a mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
• In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or do this by hand.
• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next one. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Add the mashed potatoes to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
• Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the potato mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in the hot water until the batter becomes smooth. The batter will be slightly thin, but that's normal.
• Pour the batter into the greased cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
• Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
• If desired, prepare the chocolate ganache by heating the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth.
• Pour the chocolate ganache over the cooled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
• Allow the ganache to set before serving the potato chocolate cake. Enjoy!

Note: You can also decorate the cake with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh fruits for added visual appeal.

2. Potato Donuts

Potato donuts are a delicious twist on the classic donut recipe. The addition of mashed potatoes creates a moist and tender texture, while the crispy outer layer adds a delightful crunch. These donuts are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of the day.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized potatoes
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼  cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½  teaspoon salt
• ¼  teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼  teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼  cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Method:

• Cook the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into small chunks. Place them in a pot of boiling water and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and mash them until smooth. Set aside to cool.
• Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix well to combine.
• Add the mashed potatoes: Add the cooled mashed potatoes to the dry ingredients and mix until they are evenly distributed.
• Make the dough: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients with mashed potatoes. Stir until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it's too dry, add a splash of milk.
• Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• Rest the dough: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
• Shape the donuts: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/2 inch. Use a donut cutter or a round cookie cutter to cut out the donut shapes. If you don't have a cutter, you can use a glass for the outer shape and a smaller bottle cap for the inner hole.
• Let the donuts rise: Place the cut-out donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
• Fry the donuts: In a deep saucepan or a deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place a few donuts at a time into the hot oil and fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Flip them halfway through using a slotted spoon. Once cooked, transfer the donuts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
• Dust with powdered sugar: Allow the donuts to cool slightly, then dust them with powdered sugar. Serve warm and enjoy!

These potato donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.

3. Chocolate Potato Cookies

Chocolate Potato Cookies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and the surprising addition of mashed potatoes. These cookies have a soft and chewy texture, and the potatoes add a moistness that makes them extra special. They are perfect for chocolate lovers looking for a unique twist on traditional cookies.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mashed potatoes (cooked and cooled)
• ½  cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½  cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½  cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¼  teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Method:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the mashed potatoes, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the mixing bowl. Mix until a thick cookie dough forms.
• Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
• Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centres are slightly soft.
• Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Once cooled, enjoy the delicious and unique chocolate potato cookies!

These cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends, and they make a wonderful treat for any occasion. The addition of mashed potatoes gives them a moist and tender texture that will keep you coming back for more. Serve them with a glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate indulgence. Enjoy!

4. Mashed Potato Candy

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mashed potatoes (cooled)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½  cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
• Optional toppings: chopped nuts, cocoa powder, shredded coconut

Method:

• Start by making mashed potatoes using your preferred method. Ensure they are smooth and free from lumps. Let the mashed potatoes cool completely before proceeding with the recipe.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes and vanilla extract. Gradually add the powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, while continuously stirring until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
• Incorporate the peanut butter into the dough. You can use either smooth or crunchy peanut butter, depending on your preference. Mix it well until it's evenly distributed throughout the dough.
• Dust a clean surface with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball between your palms. Place the ball on the powdered surface and gently flatten it into a small disk. Repeat this process with the remaining dough.
• If desired, you can roll the flattened candy disks in chopped nuts, cocoa powder, or shredded coconut to add extra flavour and texture. This step is entirely optional and can be skipped if preferred.
• Once all the candies are shaped, place them on a baking sheet or a plate lined with parchment paper. Allow them to set at room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours. This resting time will help the candies firm up and develop their characteristic texture.
• Once the mashed potato candies have set, they are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them as a sweet treat on their own or as part of a dessert platter. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several days.

Mashed potato candy is a unique and surprisingly delicious confection that combines the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes with the sweetness of powdered sugar and the nutty flavour of peanut butter. These candies are a delightful treat for special occasions or whenever you're craving something indulgent and different.

5. Potato Scones

Potato scones, also known as tattie scones, are a traditional Scottish dish that make a delicious breakfast or snack. They are made with mashed potatoes, flour, and butter, resulting in a soft and slightly crispy scone. Here's a step-by-step recipe to make potato scones:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Method:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, softened butter, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
• Dust a clean surface with flour and transfer the dough onto it. Knead the dough lightly for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
• Roll out the dough on the floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm). Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out individual scones from the dough. The size can vary according to your preference.
• Heat a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium heat. Add a little vegetable oil to coat the pan.
• Carefully transfer the potato scones onto the hot pan. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your pan.
• Once the potato scones are cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
• Serve the potato scones warm. They are delicious on their own or can be enjoyed with butter, jam, or a savoury topping of your choice.

Potato scones are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. They are great for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish with a meal. The combination of the soft potato interior and the slightly crispy exterior makes them a delightful treat for potato lovers.