Irish Potato Candy Recipe
Introduction
Irish Potato Candy is a sweet treat that looks like little potatoes but tastes like a creamy coconut delight. This no-bake recipe is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you want a fun and unique candy to share.

Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 ½ cups shredded coconut
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup light brown sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Using a hand mixer, cream together the butter and cream cheese until combined and smooth.
- Step 2: Beat in the vanilla until combined.
- Step 3: Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until combined.
- Step 4: Using a rubber spatula, fold in the shredded coconut.
- Step 5: Cover with foil and place into the fridge for 1 hour.
- Step 6: Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 7: Using a tablespoon, scoop out some of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
- Step 8: Set onto the cookie sheet, repeat until all of the mixture is rolled into balls.
- Step 9: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Step 10: Coat each dough ball in the brown sugar mixture.
- Step 11: Place onto a serving tray and continue coating all balls.
- Step 12: Enjoy your Irish Potato Candy!
Tips & Variations
- For a firmer candy, chill the mixture longer before rolling.
- Use sweetened shredded coconut for a sweeter taste, or unsweetened if you want less sweetness.
- Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for an extra warm spice note.
- If you don’t have light brown sugar, dark brown sugar works as well and adds a richer flavor.
Storage
Store Irish Potato Candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For best texture, bring to room temperature before serving. These candies do not freeze well as the texture may change.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use powdered sugar substitutes?
Powdered sugar substitutes like erythritol powdered sweeteners can be used, but they may slightly alter the texture and sweetness of the candy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients. Just ensure your shredded coconut and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if cross-contamination is a concern.
PrintIrish Potato Candy Recipe
Irish Potato Candy is a delightful no-bake treat that combines creamy cream cheese, shredded coconut, and a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating to mimic the look and flavor of miniature potatoes. This traditional candy is easy to prepare and perfect for sharing during festive occasions or simply enjoying as a unique sweet snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 candies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Irish-American
Ingredients
Base
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 ½ cups shredded coconut
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Coating
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup light brown sugar
Instructions
- Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese: Using a hand mixer, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, creating a creamy base.
- Add Vanilla: Beat in the pure vanilla extract until it is evenly distributed in the mixture.
- Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing continuously until it is fully blended and the mixture thickens.
- Fold in Coconut: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the shredded coconut into the mixture to maintain texture and blend evenly.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with foil and refrigerate for 1 hour to let the mixture firm up, making it easier to handle.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent candy from sticking.
- Shape the Candy Balls: Scoop a tablespoon of the chilled mixture and roll it into a ball with your hands.
- Place on Sheet: Set each formed ball onto the prepared cookie sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is shaped into balls.
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a medium bowl, whisk together ground cinnamon and light brown sugar to create the coating.
- Coat the Candy Balls: Roll each candy ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until completely coated.
- Arrange for Serving: Place the coated candies onto a serving tray to present and allow any excess sugar to fall off.
- Serve and Enjoy: The Irish Potato Candy is now ready to be enjoyed immediately or stored for later.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are well softened for easier mixing.
- Refrigeration solidifies the mixture, making it easier to roll into balls.
- Store the candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- These candies do not contain actual potatoes; the name comes from their appearance.
- For a less sweet version, adjust the amount of powdered sugar and brown sugar coating accordingly.
Keywords: Irish Potato Candy, no-bake candy, coconut candy, cream cheese candy, cinnamon sugar candy, Irish dessert

