Irish Potato Candy is a delightful treat, despite the name, containing no actual potatoes! This traditional confection hails from Philadelphia, often enjoyed around St. Patrick’s Day. These small, sweet candies resemble little potatoes, with a creamy coconut filling and a cinnamon-coated exterior that mimics the appearance of real potatoes. Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet flavor make them a fun and festive addition to any dessert platter. While not authentically Irish, they are a cherished part of American-Irish celebrations.
Ingredients:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
Instructions:
- Prepare the base: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Stir in coconut: Fold in the shredded coconut until well mixed. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape.
- Shape the candies: Using your hands, roll the mixture into small, potato-shaped ovals, about 1 inch long.
- Coat with cinnamon: Roll each candy in ground cinnamon until fully coated, giving them the appearance of a small potato.
- Chill and serve: Place the candies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for about 1 hour to firm up. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy these sweet “potatoes” as a charming and delicious treat!
