Irish Potato Candy is a sweet treat that’s surprisingly fun and easy to make! Despite the name, it doesn’t actually have any potatoes in it. Instead, it’s a creamy mix of coconut, sugar, and cream cheese rolled into little balls and dusted with cinnamon to look just like tiny potatoes. The texture is soft and slightly chewy, and the cinnamon on the outside gives it a nice touch of spice that balances the sweetness.
I love making Irish Potato Candy during St. Patrick’s Day because it’s a cute and unexpected candy that always gets people talking. It’s one of those recipes I like to share with friends and family because it’s so simple to whip up, and it doesn’t require baking or any fancy ingredients. Plus, it’s fun to roll the little “potatoes” and coat them evenly with cinnamon. It’s like a little kitchen craft project that turns into a tasty treat!
When I serve Irish Potato Candy, I usually put them on a festive plate or in a small basket lined with green paper to keep with the holiday vibe. They’re perfect for gifting or just nibbling while chatting with friends. I think the best part is watching people’s surprised faces when they bite into what looks like a tiny spud but tastes like a sweet, cinnamony dessert. It’s a simple delight that always brings a smile!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base that gives the candy its soft, creamy texture. Make sure it’s softened to mix easily. If you want a dairy-free option, try a vegan cream cheese—it works well too!
Powdered Sugar: This sweetens and thickens the mixture. You can adjust how much you use depending on how sweet and firm you want your candy. If you prefer less sugar, start with less and add gradually.
Shredded Sweetened Coconut: Adds flavor and texture. Sweetened coconut is traditional, but if you want a less sweet candy, you can use unsweetened coconut—just add a bit more sugar if needed.
Vanilla Extract: Small but important for a lovely flavor boost. You can skip it if you don’t have any, but I find it adds a nice, warm touch.
Ground Cinnamon: This is what gives the candy its potato “skin” look and a bit of spice. Use a good-quality cinnamon for the best flavor. If you don’t like cinnamon, nutmeg is a mild alternative.
How Do You Get the Perfect Potato Shape and Cinnamon Coat?
Shaping these candies to look like tiny potatoes is part of the fun! Here’s how to do it easily:
- Scoop a small amount of the mix with your hands and roll it between your palms to form an oval shape, just like a little potato.
- Don’t worry about making them perfect—natural “lumps” make them look more realistic.
- For coating, put cinnamon in a shallow bowl or plate. Roll each shaped ball until fully covered. Tap off excess cinnamon.
- If the candy feels too sticky while shaping, chilling the mixture for 15-20 minutes can help.
- Once coated, place them on parchment paper or a plate and refrigerate. The fridge helps firm them up and hold their shape.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I recommend using a large bowl for mixing everything together easily.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps combine the ingredients smoothly without splattering.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise measuring, especially the powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Small scoop or teaspoon – makes portioning the mixture easier and more uniform.
- Shallow plate or dish – for rolling the candies in cinnamon.
- Plastic wrap or parchment paper – to cover and refrigerate the candies as they firm up.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Chocolate flavor: Mix in a tablespoon of cocoa powder or dip the finished candies in melted chocolate.
- Almond extract: Swap vanilla for almond extract for a different aromatic flavor.
- Different coatings: Instead of cinnamon, roll them in cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or sprinkles for variety.
- Nut fillings: Stuff the center with chopped nuts or a small piece of caramel for a surprise inside.
How to Make Irish Potato Candy?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar (approximately)
- 2 ½ cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon, for coating
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After shaping and coating the candy, you’ll need to refrigerate them for 1 to 2 hours to let them firm up. So, plan for around 2 hours total before enjoying these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cream Cheese, Coconut, and Vanilla:
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, shredded sweetened coconut, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until well combined and smooth.
2. Add Powdered Sugar to Create Dough:
Slowly add powdered sugar, stirring constantly. Keep adding and mixing until the mixture turns into a thick, dough-like consistency that’s easy to shape by hand.
3. Shape Your Potato Candy:
Pinch off small amounts of the mixture and roll them between your palms into small oval shapes that look like tiny potatoes. Don’t worry about perfection — a little roughness adds to the charm!
4. Coat with Cinnamon:
Pour ground cinnamon onto a shallow plate. Roll each shaped candy in the cinnamon until it’s fully coated. This gives your candies their classic “potato” look and adds a delicious touch of spice.
5. Chill and Set:
Place the cinnamon-coated candies on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate them for at least 1-2 hours to firm them up and set the flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, Irish Potato Candy is ready to eat! Serve them on a festive tray for family and friends to enjoy their sweet, creamy, and cinnamon-spiced goodness.
Can I Use Light Cream Cheese for Irish Potato Candy?
Yes, you can use light or reduced-fat cream cheese, but the texture may be slightly less creamy and firm. Just make sure it’s softened for easier mixing.
How Should I Store Irish Potato Candy?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They’re best enjoyed chilled and fresh!
Can I Make Irish Potato Candy Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day or two in advance. Just keep them refrigerated and covered to maintain freshness.
What Can I Use Instead of Cinnamon for Coating?
If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, try rolling the candies in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or crushed nuts for a delicious twist.