introduction
Irish potatoes are a sweet candy that looks like little potatoes. They taste like cream cheese and coconut with a hint of cinnamon. They are easy to make at home and need no baking. If you like simple treats, try this recipe and also check a savory potato idea like baked chicken drumsticks with potatoes and slaw for a full meal.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a quick, no-bake candy. It uses few ingredients that you may already have. Kids and guests like the small potato shapes. You can make many at once and share them.
how to make Irish potatoes
Work with soft cream cheese and butter. Mix the sugar and vanilla well so the candy is smooth. Fold in the coconut and shape the dough into small oval potato shapes. Roll each piece in cinnamon so they look like tiny potatoes. Chill before serving so they hold their shape. If you want a savory side to go with a sweet finish, try a roasted vegetable side like balsamic roasted mushrooms with herby kale mashed potatoes.
Ingredients :
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup butter (softened)
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2½ cups shredded coconut
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Directions :
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add sugar and vanilla; mix well.
- Fold in coconut.
- Roll into small oval shapes.
- Roll in cinnamon.
- Chill 30 minutes before serving.
how to serve Irish potatoes
Serve them cold on a small plate or tray. They make a good dessert or party sweet. Place them next to other treats or with coffee. They also pair well with classic Irish dishes like Irish steak pie for a full menu.
how to store Irish potatoes
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay good for about 1 week. You can freeze them for up to 1 month in a sealed container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
tips to make Irish potatoes
- Soften cream cheese and butter to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Use fine confectioners’ sugar for a smooth texture.
- Press the coconut gently so the candy holds together.
- Make small, even shapes so they chill well and look like potatoes.
- Chill well before serving to keep the shape.
variation (if any)
- Add a little cocoa powder to the cinnamon for a darker look.
- Use toasted coconut for a nuttier taste.
- Add a drop of almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor.
FAQs (minimum three FAQ)
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Yes, but butter gives a richer taste.
Q: Can I make them without coconut?
A: The coconut gives the texture. You can try crushed biscuits, but the result will change.
Q: How big should each potato be?
A: Make them about 1 to 1.5 inches long so they look like small potatoes and chill well.
Q: Do I need to chill them before rolling in cinnamon?
A: You can roll right away, but chilling for a few minutes makes shaping easier.
Q: Are these safe for kids to make?
A: Yes. They do not need baking, but young kids may need help shaping and handling the sugar.
Conclusion
For another trusted version and more tips on Irish potato candy, see Irish Potatoes | Potato Candy Recipe – Baked Bree.
Irish Potatoes Candy
Ingredients
Method
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add sugar and vanilla; mix well.
- Fold in coconut.
- Roll into small oval shapes.
- Roll in cinnamon.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving to help hold shape.