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Irish Potato Candy Recipe

4.5 from 57 reviews

Irish Potato Candy is a delightful confection that mimics the look of small potatoes using a sweetened cream cheese and coconut mixture rolled in cinnamon. This nostalgic treat is creamy, chewy, and bursting with cinnamon flavor, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any festive occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 package (8 ounces) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened (room temperature)
  • 1 stick (4 ounces / 8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
  • 32 ounces confectioner’s sugar (powdered sugar)
  • 7 ounces sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1.5 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch kosher salt (preferably Diamond Crystal)

Coating

  • 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the cream cheese, butter, confectioner’s sugar, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Mix on low speed until the mixture is smooth and uniformly combined. Scrape down the bowl as needed to incorporate all ingredients.
  3. Chill Mixture: Cover the combined mixture and refrigerate for one hour to firm up the dough, making it easier to handle.
  4. Form Candy Balls: Using a tablespoon, scoop out small portions of the chilled mixture and roll them into approximately 75 small, oval-shaped balls to resemble miniature potatoes.
  5. Roll in Cinnamon: Place the ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl and roll each candy ball thoroughly in the cinnamon until evenly coated.
  6. Set and Chill: Arrange the cinnamon-coated candies on a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
  7. Serve: Present the Irish Potato Candy on a decorative platter or store them in an airtight container or jar at cool temperature for easy access and snacking.

Notes

  • For best results, soften cream cheese and butter to room temperature before mixing to ensure smooth texture.
  • If you prefer a less sweet candy, adjust the amount of confectioner’s sugar to taste.
  • Store candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness; they can keep for up to one week.
  • The sweetened shredded coconut adds chewiness, but you can substitute with unsweetened if preferred, adjusting sugar accordingly.
  • Rolling in cinnamon mimics the appearance of potato skin and adds a warm spice flavor that balances the sweetness.

Keywords: Irish potato candy, cream cheese candy, St. Patrick's Day treat, no bake candy, cinnamon coated candy, coconut sweet snack