Description

Irish Potato Candy is a delightful St. Patrick’s Day treat that resembles miniature potatoes but tastes sweet and creamy. Made from a smooth mixture of cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and shredded coconut, these candies are rolled in a cinnamon sugar coating for a hint of spice and extra sweetness. Perfectly festive and easy to prepare, these bite-sized confections offer a nostalgic and charming addition to any celebration.

Ingredients

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For the Candy Mixture

1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
4 oz Cream Cheese, softened
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
1/4 tsp Ground Cinnamon (for flavor)
3 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar
2 cups Sweetened Shredded Coconut

For Coating

1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon (for rolling)
1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (for rolling)

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Instructions

Prepare the Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Beat these ingredients together until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
Add Powdered Sugar and Coconut: Gradually add the powdered sugar into the mixture, stirring well after each addition to fully incorporate it. Once the powdered sugar is completely mixed in, fold in the shredded sweetened coconut until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency that can be shaped by hand.
Shape the Candies: Take small portions of the dough and roll them between your palms to form small, oval-shaped pieces resembling miniature potatoes. This step is key to achieving the traditional look.
Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: Mix the tablespoon of ground cinnamon with the quarter cup of granulated sugar in a shallow dish. Roll each shaped candy in this cinnamon sugar mixture thoroughly so that they are fully coated, which adds a sweet, spicy layer and the characteristic appearance.
Chill and Set: Place the coated candies on a parchment-lined tray or plate and refrigerate them for at least an hour. Chilling allows them to firm up and helps the flavors meld together for the best taste and texture.
Serve: Once set, the Irish Potato Candies are ready to be served. Arrange them on a festive platter and enjoy this charming treat during your St. Patrick’s Day celebration or share as a delightful homemade gift.

Notes

Use sweetened shredded coconut for the best flavor and texture; unsweetened coconut will alter the sweetness and mouthfeel.
If the dough feels too sticky to handle, chill it briefly before shaping to make it easier to work with.
Store leftover candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
This candy is traditionally not made with actual potatoes; the name comes from its appearance and shape.
You can adjust the cinnamon quantity in the coating according to your spice preference.