Sweet Potatoes

With St. Patrick's Day coming up, I've been thinking about these yummy candies that you probably have had--Irish Potato Candy.

It seems like many folks have their own recipe for these sweet little treats--none of which, by the way, include potato.  They're called Potato Candy because they look like potatoes.

Here's a recipe that I found that got good reviews.  It's pretty easy.  I haven't tried it yet, but I plan to.  Let me know if you do--and how you like it.  Or if you have other recipes.

Irish Potato Candy (makes about 60 servings)

INGREDIENTS

1/4 cup butter, softened

4 oz cream cheese, softened

2 1/2 cups flaked coconut

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 cups confectioners' sugar

Ground cinnamon for coating

1. In a medium bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth.  Add vanilla and sugar; beat until smooth.  Using your hands if necessary, mix in the coconut.  Roll into balls or potato shapes, and roll in cinnamon.  Place onto a cookie sheet and chill to set.  If desired, roll in cinnamon again for a darker color.  (Some comments said that the cinnamon might be a little too strong as written, so they put a half tablespoon of cocoa for every tablespoon of cinnamon.)

Enjoy!