Description
Irish Potato Candy is a delightful no-bake sweet treat that resembles small potatoes. Made with cream cheese, shredded coconut, and coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, these candies offer a unique, creamy texture combined with a sugary exterior that is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any festive occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 ½ cups shredded coconut
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Coating
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup light brown sugar
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: Using a hand mixer, cream together the butter and cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Beat in the pure vanilla extract until it is evenly mixed throughout.
- Mix in Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuously mixing until the dough reaches a consistent texture.
- Fold in Coconut: Gently fold the shredded coconut into the mixture using a rubber spatula, ensuring it is well distributed.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the mixture with foil and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm it up for easy shaping.
- Prepare Cookie Sheet: Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to place the shaped candies on.
- Shape the Candies: Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the chilled mixture and roll each into a ball using your hands.
- Arrange Balls on Sheet: Place each candy ball onto the prepared cookie sheet, repeating until all mixture is used.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar Coating: In a medium bowl, whisk together the ground cinnamon and light brown sugar to create the coating mixture.
- Coat the Candy Balls: Roll each candy ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
- Place on Serving Tray: Arrange all coated candy balls on a serving tray, ready to be enjoyed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately or keep refrigerated for later enjoyment.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are well softened for easier mixing.
- Refrigerating the mixture is key to making it easier to roll into balls.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, adjust the amount of cinnamon in the coating to taste.
- Store candies covered in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- These candies do not contain potatoes despite their name—they are named for their shape and color.
