Frequently Asked Questions
What is Coconut Cream Potato Candy?
Coconut Cream Potato Candy is a delightful and fun treat that visually mimics real potatoes but contains no actual potatoes, featuring a creamy, buttery base with coconut flakes and a cinnamon coating.
Does this recipe contain real potatoes?
No, despite the name, this candy contains no actual potatoes.
What are the main ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients are softened butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, confectioners' sugar, sweetened flaked coconut, and ground cinnamon.
What type of cream cheese should I use?
You should use regular cream cheese that has been softened. Avoid using whipped or reduced-fat varieties for this recipe.
How much butter is needed for Coconut Cream Potato Candy?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of softened butter.
What is the purpose of the ground cinnamon?
Ground cinnamon is used to roll the shaped candies in to give them an authentic potato-like appearance.
How do I prepare the base of the candy?
Cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until fluffy, then mix in the vanilla extract and confectioners' sugar until a cohesive ball forms.
When should I add the coconut?
Gently fold in the sweetened flaked coconut using a large spoon or spatula after the sugar and cream cheese mixture has formed a cohesive ball.
How should I shape the candies?
Use your hands to roll small portions of the mixture into potato-shaped pieces or small balls.
How long do the candies need to chill?
The candies should be chilled in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or until they are firm to the touch.
Can I make a chocolate-covered version of these?
Yes, you can melt your choice of chocolate and dip each candy, allowing the excess to drip off before letting them set.
What is the best way to avoid a 'sugar cloud' when mixing?
When adding the confectioners' sugar, start your mixer on low speed initially before increasing to a higher speed.
How much coconut is required?
You will need 7 ounces of sweetened flaked coconut, which is approximately 2 1/2 cups.
Can these candies be made for Easter?
Yes, they are perfect for Easter and can even be dipped in chocolate to look like Easter eggs.
What size package of confectioners' sugar do I need?
The recipe requires one 16-ounce package of confectioners' sugar.
Should I line the cookie sheet?
Yes, place the coated candies on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper for easy chilling and removal.
How do I achieve a more rustic look for the 'potatoes'?
For a more rustic look, you can gently roll the candies in cinnamon once more after they have finished chilling.
What tool is best for creaming the butter and cheese?
You can use either a hand mixer or a stand mixer to cream the butter and cream cheese until well blended.
How much vanilla extract should I add?
Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for flavor.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 6 total ingredients in this recipe.
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
The recipe specifies sweetened flaked coconut for both texture and sweetness.
How do I know when the mixture is ready for the coconut?
The mixture is ready when it forms a cohesive ball after beating the sugar into the cream cheese and butter.
Is this recipe suitable for gatherings?
Yes, it makes for an ideal sweet addition to any festive celebration or gathering.
Do I need to bake these candies?
No, this is a no-bake candy recipe that requires chilling instead of baking.
What should I do if the chocolate-dipped candies need to set?
Let the chocolate-dipped candies set on a wire rack or parchment paper until the chocolate hardens.
How do I coat the balls in cinnamon?
Pour ground cinnamon into a shallow dish and roll each shaped ball in it to coat evenly.
Are there any specific tags for this recipe?
Tags for this recipe include candy, easter, no potatoes, coconut, cream cheese, dessert, sweet treat, and homemade candy.
What should the consistency of the butter and cream cheese be?
Both should be softened to ensure they blend together smoothly and become fluffy.
Is this a good recipe for kids?
Yes, rolling the mixture into fun potato shapes is a creative activity that can be enjoyed by all.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The specific serving size is not provided, but the recipe uses a 16-ounce package of sugar and 7 ounces of coconut, making a significant batch of small candies.