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Creamy Irish Potato Candy Recipe with Easy Coconut Cream Filling

creamy irish potato candy - featured image

A nostalgic and creamy candy made with a cream cheese and powdered sugar base, shaped like small potatoes and filled with a luscious coconut cream filling, dusted with cinnamon.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, divided
  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened (full-fat preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, for dusting
  • 1 cup (240ml) coconut cream (thick, canned)
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar, for filling
  • 1/4 cup (20g) unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) butter, softened (or dairy-free alternative)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Candy Base: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer or vigorous stirring by hand.
  2. Mix in Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until dough-like. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Total mixing time about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Shape the Candy Dough: Turn dough onto a surface lightly dusted with powdered sugar. Knead gently until smooth (1-2 minutes). Roll into 1-inch thick logs, slice into 1-inch pieces, and shape each into small oval or potato shapes. Place on wax paper-lined tray.
  4. Make the Coconut Cream Filling: In a small bowl, whip together 1 cup (240ml) coconut cream, 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar, 1/4 cup (20g) shredded coconut, and 2 tablespoons (28g) softened butter until smooth and creamy (3-4 minutes).
  5. Assemble the Candy: Place a dollop of coconut cream filling on half of the candy pieces. Top with remaining pieces, pressing gently to sandwich. Arrange on wax paper.
  6. Dust with Cinnamon: Place 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon in a small bowl and dust candies evenly on all sides using a pastry brush or by rolling.
  7. Chill and Set: Refrigerate candies for at least 1 hour to firm up before serving.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for smooth blending. Add powdered sugar gradually to avoid gritty texture. Chill candies fully to set filling. Coconut cream is preferred over coconut milk for thickness. Can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and butter for vegan version. Optional variations include adding nutmeg, orange zest, or chocolate drizzle.

Nutrition

Keywords: Irish potato candy, coconut cream filling, creamy candy, cinnamon dusted candy, homemade candy, St. Patrick's Day dessert, easy candy recipe