Irish Potato Candy is a sweet treat that’s surprisingly fun and a little bit unexpected! Don’t be fooled by the name—these bite-sized candies look like little potatoes, but they’re actually a delightful mix of creamy coconut and smooth cream cheese, rolled in cinnamon for a touch of warmth. They’re soft, sweet, and perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a snack any time you want a little something different.
I love making Irish Potato Candy around St. Patrick’s Day because it adds a bit of festive fun to the usual candy lineup. The best part is that they’re so easy to make at home, and they only take a handful of ingredients. I usually make a big batch, and it’s always a hit whether I give them away or keep them for myself (which definitely happens more than I’d like to admit!). I find that rolling them in cinnamon really brings out the cozy flavor and gives them that perfect “potato” look.
One of my favorite ways to serve Irish Potato Candy is on a little tray with some other classic Irish treats or homemade cookies. They look charming on a dessert table and surprise everyone once they take a bite. I think these candies spark a lot of happy memories too, especially when shared with family and friends while chatting and sipping on a warm drink. If you want something tasty and a little different, this is a sweet you’ll keep coming back to!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This gives the candy its creamy, smooth texture. For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cream cheese, but expect slight changes in flavor.
Shredded Coconut: Sweetened coconut adds chewiness and sweetness. You can use unsweetened if you prefer less sugar, just add a bit more powdered sugar to balance.
Powdered Sugar: This sweetens and helps create the dough texture. Sifting it ensures no lumps in your candy mixture.
Vanilla Extract: A small amount adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have vanilla, a tiny splash of almond extract can work for a different twist.
Chocolate Chips: Milk or semi-sweet chocolate is used for coating. Feel free to use dark chocolate for a richer taste, or white chocolate if you prefer sweeter coating.
Ground Cinnamon: Vital for giving the candies their “potato skin” look and a touch of warmth. Don’t skip this—it’s what makes the candy recognizable.
How Do You Shape & Coat Irish Potato Candy Without It Falling Apart?
Getting the right consistency is key so your candies hold together well. Here’s what helps:
- Firm dough: Add powdered sugar gradually until you get a dough that’s soft but doesn’t stick to your hands excessively.
- Chill before coating: Refrigerate the shaped candies for at least 30 minutes to firm them up. This stops them from falling apart during dipping.
- Tempering chocolate: Melt chocolate slowly, stirring often, so it’s smooth and shiny. Too hot chocolate can melt the candies.
- Dipping technique: Use a fork or dipping tool to submerge candies fully, then lift and tap gently to remove excess chocolate before placing on parchment.
- Cinnamon dusting: Sprinkle or roll candies lightly in cinnamon while chocolate is still wet to help it stick evenly and create the classic look.
Following these tips will help you create candies that look good, hold their shape, and have that perfect creamy texture on the inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I use a large one to mix the ingredients smoothly and evenly.
- Hand mixer or spoon – a mixer makes blending easier, but a sturdy spoon works fine too.
- Rubber spatula –ideal for scraping the bowl and mixing thoroughly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts to get the best texture.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – to hold the shaped candies as they chill and set.
- Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler – for melting the chocolate gently and smoothly.
- Small spoon or fork – to dip and coat the candies in chocolate easily.
- Rolling pin (optional) – if you want to flatten or shape the mixture more evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use dark or white chocolate for the coating, depending on your taste preference.
- Add a dash of almond or coconut extract to the filling for extra flavor.
- Mix in finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Roll some candies in cocoa powder or crushed graham crackers for different textures and looks.
How to Make Irish Potato Candy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 package (14 oz) shredded coconut (sweetened)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 12 ounces milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips, for coating
- Ground cinnamon for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes to chill the shaped candies before coating. You’ll also need about 1 hour of chilling time after dipping them in chocolate for the best result.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cream Cheese and Coconut
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. Add the shredded coconut and vanilla extract, then stir it all together until well combined.
2. Add the Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar while mixing. Keep going until the mixture forms a soft, dough-like texture you can easily shape with your hands. If it’s too sticky, add a little more powdered sugar.
3. Shape the Candies
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into oval shapes that look like mini potatoes. Place each one on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once done, refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let them firm up.
4. Melt the Chocolate
While the candies chill, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each time until smooth and fully melted.
5. Dip and Dust
Dip each chilled candy into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Place them back onto the parchment paper. Before the chocolate hardens, lightly dust or roll the candies in ground cinnamon to mimic potato skin.
6. Chill Again and Serve
Put the coated candies in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the chocolate to set fully. Store the candies in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them chilled!
Can I Use Frozen Cream Cheese for This Recipe?
It’s best to use cream cheese that’s fully thawed and softened to room temperature. This makes it easier to mix and ensures a smooth, creamy texture in your candies.
Can I Make Irish Potato Candy Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare and shape the candies a day in advance. Keep them refrigerated before dipping in chocolate, then coat and chill on the day you want to serve.
How Should I Store Leftover Irish Potato Candy?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to one week. Let them come to a slightly cooler than room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor.
What Can I Use Instead of Chocolate for Coating?
If you prefer, white chocolate or dark chocolate work great as alternatives. Just melt and dip the candies the same way to achieve a delicious coating.