Irish Potato Candy is a sweet treat that’s actually nothing like a potato but looks just like one! These little candies are made with creamy coconut, powdered sugar, and butter, then rolled into bite-sized balls and dusted with cinnamon to give them a warm, cozy touch. They’re fun to make and even more fun to eat, especially around St. Patrick’s Day.
I love making Irish Potato Candy because it’s so simple and doesn’t require any baking. The coconut mixture feels soft and a little sticky, and when you roll them in cinnamon, it adds a little crunchy spice on the outside. I always find it amusing how everyone gets curious about the name and then wants to try one to see if it really tastes like a potato — spoiler alert: it doesn’t, but it’s delicious!
Whenever I serve Irish Potato Candy at gatherings, it’s always a hit. I like to pop them in a pretty little dish or wrap a few up as a small gift for friends. The sweet coconut and cinnamon makes for a comforting bite, and I find they bring a cheerful touch of Irish charm to any dessert table. Plus, they’re a great conversation starter!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This gives the candy a smooth, creamy texture that holds everything together. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using mascarpone or even a dairy-free cream cheese alternative—they work well too!
Powdered Sugar: It’s important to use powdered sugar here for a smooth mix. If you can’t find it, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar until fine, but powdered sugar keeps the texture just right.
Shredded Coconut: Sweetened coconut adds more flavor, but unsweetened works fine if you prefer less sweetness. For a different twist, try finely chopped nuts or almond flour, though keep in mind the texture will change.
Chocolate: Milk or semisweet chocolate melts smoothly and tastes great, but feel free to use dark chocolate if you prefer a richer flavor. For dairy-free options, many vegan chocolates melt just as well.
Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon gives the candy its “potato skin” look and adds a warm spice. If you want something different, nutmeg or cocoa powder can be fun substitutes, but cinnamon is classic here.
How Do You Get the Candy Balls Smooth and Easy to Coat with Chocolate?
To shape the candies nicely and make coating easier, chilling is key. After mixing, chill the balls for at least 30 minutes. This firms them up and prevents crumbling when you dip them into the warm chocolate.
- Use slightly damp hands to help roll the sticky dough into smooth balls.
- Don’t skip chilling—if the balls are too soft, the chocolate can break them apart.
- When dipping, use a fork or dipping tool to cover the candy completely.
- Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing on parchment to avoid thick chocolate layers.
- If chocolate hardens too fast, warm it slightly to keep it smooth for dipping.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I like using a large bowl to stir everything together easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps you get the right amounts without fuss.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – makes shaping the coconut mixture into evenly-sized balls simple.
- Parchment or wax paper – to place the shaped candies on and prevent sticking.
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl – for melting the chocolate smoothly.
- Fork or dipping tool – helps you coat the candy balls with chocolate evenly.
- Refrigerator – for chilling the candies so they hold their shape and the chocolate sets.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use coconut flakes with chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor. It makes the candy more colorful and chewy.
- Add a splash of flavored liqueur, like Baileys or rum, to the mixture for a boozy kick—great for adult treats.
- Swap the cinnamon dusting for cocoa powder or powdered coffee for a different taste on the exterior.
- Mix in chocolate chips or chunks for an extra chocolate surprise inside the candy.
How to Make Irish Potato Candy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Candy:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 4 cups shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, your choice)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Coating and Finishing:
- 12 oz milk or semisweet chocolate (chopped or chocolate chips)
- Ground cinnamon, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, 30 minutes chilling, and around 20 minutes to coat and chill again. Overall, expect about 1 hour to complete the whole process with chilling times included. It’s quick and simple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Candy Base:
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, stirring continuously until fully blended. Then, stir in the shredded coconut until you have a sticky dough-like mixture.
2. Shape the Candies:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into small oval shapes about 1 inch long—these will look like tiny potatoes! Place each shaped candy onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Chill the Candy Balls:
Put the shaped candies into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes it easier to dip later.
4. Melt the Chocolate:
While the candies chill, melt your chocolate. You can do this in a double boiler on the stove or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently until smooth.
5. Coat and Dust:
Remove the chilled candies from the fridge. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each candy fully into the melted chocolate, letting off any extra drip back into the bowl. Place the coated candies back onto parchment paper. While the chocolate is still wet, lightly dust each piece with ground cinnamon to give it the classic potato skin look.
6. Final Chill:
Return the coated candies to the fridge for 15-20 minutes until the chocolate hardens completely.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once set, bring the candies to room temperature or serve chilled. These sweet, coconut-filled treats look like little potatoes but taste deliciously sweet and creamy—perfect for sharing or gifting!
Can I Use Frozen Coconut for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shredded coconut, but make sure it’s fully thawed and drained of any excess moisture before mixing. This helps keep the candy mixture from becoming too wet.
How Should I Store Irish Potato Candy?
Store the candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
You can try mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you need a substitute. Keep in mind that texture and flavor may vary slightly, but the candy will still turn out tasty!
What’s the Best Chocolate to Use?
Milk or semisweet chocolate works best for coating because of its smooth melt and balanced sweetness. Dark chocolate is an option if you prefer a richer taste, and vegan chocolate works well if dairy-free is needed.