O'Sweet! Irish-inspired treat

Photo/GF Garden State: A pan of finished Irish Potatoes

St. Patrick's Day can mean green beer or corned beef and cabbage to other people. In my house, we're all about Irish Potatoes.

These small, oblong pieces are NOT real potatoes, but rather dessert confections. A sweet treat that's naturally gluten-free, they're easy to make at home and quite delicious.

Photo/GF Garden State: Inside an Irish Potato

Butter, cream cheese, confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract and flaked coconut are mixed. Each "potato" is formed by hand and rolled in cinnamon sugar. The process is about 90 minutes, including about an hour of chill time in the refrigerator. (See full recipe below)


Irish Potatoes are known mostly in South Jersey, and are apparently a Philadelphia-based tradition. Some bakeries and supermarkets in the region sell them pre-made.

The general consensus is that they're named after their appearance. Or maybe they were invented with the intention of looking like real potatoes.

Regardless, they're really good!

Irish Potato Candy

Recipe posted by 1Steve to Food.com

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup softened butter
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (GFGS note: Use gluten-free, of course!)
• 1 (16 ounce) package confectioners' sugar
• 7 ounces sweetened flaked coconut ( 2 1/2 cups)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Directions

1. NOTE: Be sure to use regular cream cheese, not whipped or reduced fat type.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and cream cheese.
3. Add vanilla and confectioners' sugar.
4. Beat until mixture forms a ball.
5. Stir in coconut with a spoon.
6. Roll the mixture between your hands to form small potato-shaped candies or roll into small balls.
7. Place cinnamon in a shallow dish and roll the balls in it.
8. Place the balls on a cookie sheet and chill for about 1 hour or until firm.
9. If you prefer "dirtier potatoes" roll the candy a second time after they have chilled.