Description
Irish Potato Candy is a sweet, no-bake treat traditionally enjoyed around St. Patrick’s Day. Despite its name, it contains no potato; instead, it’s made from a creamy mixture of cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and shredded coconut, rolled into bite-sized balls and coated in cinnamon to mimic the appearance of small potatoes. This classic American dessert offers a delightful combination of sweet, creamy, and cinnamon flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Mixture
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Coating
- 2 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Combine butter and cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add vanilla extract: Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated to add a subtle vanilla flavor to the dough.
- Incorporate powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing continuously until the dough becomes stiff and manageable.
- Mix in shredded coconut: Stir in the sweetened shredded coconut until it is evenly distributed throughout the dough, adding texture and flavor.
- Chill the dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until it is firm enough to handle for shaping.
- Shape the candy: Scoop out small portions of the dough and roll each into bite-sized balls approximately 1 inch in diameter.
- Coat with cinnamon: Roll each ball in ground cinnamon until completely coated to give the candy its signature look and a warm cinnamon taste.
- Final chilling: Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator until firm, about 30 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy the Irish Potato Candy chilled or at room temperature as a festive dessert or snack.
Notes
- There’s no actual potato in this candy despite the name; it’s a cream cheese and coconut-based treat.
- This candy is a Philadelphia classic and especially popular during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
- You can adjust the cinnamon coating to your taste preference for spiciness.
