There’s something truly nostalgic about sinking your teeth into a creamy, cinnamon-coated treat that feels like a cozy hug from your childhood. That’s exactly what this Cinnamon Irish Potato Candies recipe delivers—a no-bake, melt-in-your-mouth delight that’s perfect for any occasion, especially St. Patrick’s Day.

The image shows several small, oval-shaped brown treats with a soft, powdery texture, arranged both on a round metallic tray and inside white paper cups decorated with green clover patterns. The tray sits on a beige cloth with a subtle texture, and in the foreground are decorative cutouts of clovers in green and beige colors. The background is a clean white marbled texture with soft lighting enhancing the warm tones of the treats. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Cinnamon Irish Potato Candies Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Cinnamon Irish Potato Candies Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Irish Potato Candies Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I first tried these Irish Potato candies at a family gathering, and they instantly became a favorite. The combination of cream cheese and coconut coated in cinnamon is unexpectedly delightful and addictively tasty—plus, they’re incredibly easy to make!

No baking required: Perfect for when you want a quick, fuss-free dessert.
Rich and creamy texture: Thanks to the butter and cream cheese base, each bite feels luxurious.
Subtle cinnamon kick: The spice coating is just enough to balance the sweetness.
Ideal for gatherings: These bite-sized candies always disappear fast at parties!

Ingredients & Why They Work

Gathering the right ingredients is key for this classic treat. I recommend using softened butter and cream cheese for that smooth, creamy base, and sweetened coconut to bring chewy sweetness. Fresh cinnamon gives these candies their signature flavor, so don’t skimp!

Flat lay of a small slab of softened golden butter, a half brick of creamy white cream cheese, a small white ceramic bowl filled with clear vanilla extract, a medium white bowl piled with fine white confectioner’s sugar, a white bowl overflowing with shredded sweetened coconut, a small white bowl containing warm brown ground cinnamon, and two whole uncracked brown eggs, all arranged symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Butter: Softened for easy blending and rich flavor.
Cream cheese: Adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and aroma.
Confectioner's sugar: Provides sweetness and smooth texture.
Sweetened coconut: Gives the candies their traditional chew and hint of tropical flavor.
Ground cinnamon: Used as a coating to lend warmth and that iconic look.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the joys of this Cinnamon Irish Potato Candies Recipe is how easy it is to tailor it to your tastes or occasions. Whether you want to experiment with flavors or adjust the texture, a few simple tweaks can turn this classic no-bake treat into your own signature delight.

Reduce Cinnamon: If you’re not a huge fan of cinnamon’s warmth, you can lighten the coating or try a mix of cinnamon and powdered sugar for a milder finish. I once made these with half cinnamon and half cocoa powder — the subtle chocolate hint added a fun twist that my friends loved!
Swap Vanilla for Almond Extract: For a nuttier profile, almond extract offers a lovely flavor variation. Just use it sparingly to avoid it overpowering the creamy coconut base.
Make It Vegan: Substitute the butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives, and ensure your powdered sugar is vegan-friendly. The texture will be a bit different but still deliciously coconutty and sweet.
Add Nuts or Dried Fruit: Stir finely chopped pecans or dried cherries into the mixture for added texture and bursts of flavor. This variation is great if you want a bit of surprise in every bite.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cinnamon Irish Potato Candies Recipe

Inside a large silver mixing bowl, there is a white, fluffy mixture with a soft, creamy texture. A red spatula with a wooden handle rests inside the bowl, partially covered in the mixture. Next to the bowl, on a white plate with a smooth surface, there is a pile of brown powder, finely ground and loosely spread. Both items are placed on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and bright setting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Cream Cheese

Start by making sure your butter and cream cheese are nicely softened to room temperature—that’s key for a smooth, creamy base. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat them together until they’re completely combined and fluffy. You’ll notice the mixture becoming lighter and silkier, which sets the stage for the perfect candy texture.

Step 2: Gradually Add the Confectioner’s Sugar

Next, slowly add the 4 cups of confectioner’s sugar, mixing continuously as you incorporate it. Take your time here—the sugar will thicken the mixture considerably. Keep mixing until everything is well blended and smooth. This step transforms the creamy base into a dough that's firm enough to shape but still soft and pliable.

Step 3: Stir in Vanilla Extract

Pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix thoroughly. This little addition brightens all the flavors and adds a warm, sweet aroma that’s irresistible. Give it a good stir to make sure the vanilla is evenly spread throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Fold in the Sweetened Coconut

Now it’s time to add 2 ½ cups of sweetened coconut. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold the coconut gently into the mixture, making sure it’s evenly distributed. The coconut adds delightful texture and natural sweetness—this is what makes these candies so unique!

Step 5: Chill the Dough for Easy Handling

Transfer the mixture to the refrigerator and chill it for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial because the chilled dough firms up, making it much easier to handle without sticking to your fingers. Plus, the flavors have a chance to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Shape Into Bite-Sized Balls

Once chilled, scoop out small portions using your hands or a small ice cream scoop to create uniform bite-sized balls. Keep in mind these candies are quite rich, so smaller sizes work best for that perfect balance in each bite. I love using a mini scoop for consistency—it also speeds up the process and helps avoid sticky fingers!

Step 7: Roll in Ground Cinnamon

Place 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl or plate. Roll each ball in the cinnamon until it’s fully coated. This signature cinnamon layer provides that classic look and a touch of warm spice that perfectly balances the sweetness. It’s also what makes these candies reminiscent of tiny potatoes, a fun nod to tradition!

Step 8: Chill Again and Serve

Arrange the cinnamon-coated candies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy—this helps them stay firm and fresh. These Irish Potatoes make a charming addition to any St. Patrick’s Day spread or as a nostalgic treat anytime you crave a sweet coconut delight!

Top Tip

These tips will help you master the Cinnamon Irish Potato Candies Recipe and enjoy every bite with ease and confidence.

Chill the Dough Thoroughly: I’ve found that refrigerating the mixture for at least 30 minutes makes rolling so much easier, preventing sticky fingers and ensuring smooth, uniform balls.
Use a Small Scoop: After trying to shape by hand, I realized a small ice cream scoop helps keep the candies consistent in size, which makes for a nicer presentation and balanced servings.
Coat Evenly in Cinnamon: Rolling each ball in ground cinnamon right before serving creates that signature look and adds a perfect hint of warm spice that completes the flavor.
Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese Softening: Using softened cream cheese and butter lets you blend the mixture smoothly, avoiding lumps and making the candy texture heavenly.

How to Serve Cinnamon Irish Potato Candies Recipe

The image shows a group of twelve round chocolate truffles placed in white paper cups with green and white heart patterns. Each truffle is covered with a fine layer of cocoa powder giving them a matte brown texture. The truffles are neatly arranged in a close grid formation on a white marbled surface. The focus is on the front row of truffles, with the back rows slightly blurred, showing a smooth, soft texture on the outer layer. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

These charming little candies are beautiful on their own, but you can sprinkle an extra pinch of cinnamon on top for a deeper aroma. For a festive twist, add a few green-tinted shredded coconut flakes on the serving plate to nod to St. Patrick’s Day without overpowering those classic flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve these Cinnamon Irish Potato Candies alongside a warm cup of Irish tea or coffee for the perfect sweet finish. They also pair wonderfully with light fruit salads or simple buttery shortbread cookies, creating a nostalgic and well-rounded dessert spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep their freshness and texture for up to one week, making them a handy treat to enjoy throughout the week after St. Patrick’s Day or any special occasion.

Freezing

If you want to save them for longer, these candies freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray first, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Since these are no-cook candies, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Just serve them chilled or at room temperature for the best creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What gives Irish Potato Candies their name?

Despite the name, these candies don’t contain any potatoes. They’re named for their appearance—the cinnamon coating gives the coconut and cream cheese mixture a golden, potato-like look.

Can I make these candies vegan?

You can try substituting vegan butter and vegan cream cheese, but be aware that this may affect the texture and flavor slightly. The traditional recipe uses dairy for that creamy richness.

How long do these candies last?

Stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, they last about one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to two months.

Why is chilling the dough important?

Chilling firms up the mixture, making it easier to handle and shape into balls without sticking to your hands, which helps maintain the candies’ classic shape.

Final Thoughts

Making Cinnamon Irish Potato Candies always brings me sweet memories of family gatherings and celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a cozy treat. These no-bake delights are simple, nostalgic, and full of comforting flavors. I hope this recipe and tips help you create your own batch of these charming candies that everyone will love. Enjoy every bite and the festive moments that come with it!