Description
Irish Potato Candy is a nostalgic treat that tastes like a sweet potato but contains no actual potatoes. Made from a creamy blend of butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and shredded coconut, these candies are shaped into small potatoes, rolled in cinnamon for a spicy coating, and lightly dusted with powdered sugar to resemble real potatoes. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you want a unique, indulgent sweet.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Candy:
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 1/2 cups shredded coconut
For the Coating:
- 1 cup cinnamon, for rolling
- Additional powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Mix the Base: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to mix well, then stir in the shredded coconut until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Shape the Candy: Take small portions of the coconut mixture and roll them into balls or fashion them into small, potato-like shapes. If the mixture feels too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes before shaping.
- Coat the Candy: Roll each candy piece thoroughly in cinnamon until completely coated. For a more authentic potato appearance, lightly dust the cinnamon-coated candies with a bit of powdered sugar.
- Chill: Place the cinnamon-coated candies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate them for about 1 hour, or until they are firm to the touch. Once chilled, they are ready to be served or stored.
Notes
- Make sure the butter and cream cheese are softened to avoid lumps in the candy mixture.
- If the mixture is too sticky, chilling it before shaping makes it easier to handle.
- The powdered sugar dusting is optional but adds a realistic touch to mimic the look of real potatoes.
- Store the candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- This candy contains dairy and is not suitable for vegans or those who are lactose intolerant without ingredient substitutions.
