Irish Potato Candy
This easy, no-bake Irish Potato Candy is a nostalgic, old-fashioned treat with a creamy coconut center and a cozy cinnamon coating. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or a sweet pick-me-up, these candies come together in minutes and are naturally gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 candies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (120 g) shredded sweetened coconut
- 2 tbsp (16 g) ground cinnamon (for coating)
- 1 tsp (2 g) cocoa powder (optional, for coating)
Instructions
- Let cream cheese and butter sit out for about 30 minutes until softened. Measure the powdered sugar and coconut.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Gradually add powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, mixing after each addition until the mixture thickens and looks like frosting (3-4 minutes).
- Mix in vanilla extract until incorporated (30 seconds).
- Fold in shredded coconut with a spatula until the mixture is thick and sticky (1 minute). If too runny, add 2-3 tbsp more powdered sugar.
- Scoop out teaspoon-sized portions and roll between your palms to form small oval shapes (like mini potatoes), about 1 inch long. If sticky, chill for 10 minutes.
- Place ground cinnamon (and cocoa powder, if using) in a shallow dish. Roll each candy until fully coated.
- Arrange the coated candies on wax or parchment paper. Let them sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to firm up.
- Enjoy immediately or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to a week.
Notes
For best texture, use fine shredded coconut and sift powdered sugar before mixing. If the mixture is too sticky, chill before rolling. Vegan and keto adaptations are easy with dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based butter, and powdered erythritol. Store candies chilled for best flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 candy (about 20g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 20
- Fat: 3
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 9
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Keywords: Irish potato candy, no bake candy, coconut candy, St. Patrick's Day dessert, old-fashioned treat, gluten-free dessert, easy candy recipe