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Irish Potato Cakes (Potato Farls): A Cozy, Traditional Comfort Food

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  • Author: Lily Carter
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Breakfast, Side Dish
  • Method: Pan-Fried
  • Cuisine: Irish
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Irish Potato Cakes, also known as Potato Farls, are soft, buttery, and slightly crispy on the edges—an absolute delight for breakfast or a cozy snack. Made with simple ingredients like mashed potatoes, flour, and butter, they come together in just 20 minutes. Serve them on their own or with a variety of toppings for a versatile and delicious dish!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled, best if leftover)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (plus 1 tbsp for frying)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder (optional, for fluffier texture)

Instructions

 Prepare the Dough

  • In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups mashed potatoes, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp melted butter, and ½ tsp salt.
  • Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour (1 tbsp at a time).

2. Roll & Shape the Farls

  • Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thick.
  • Cut into 4 equal wedges (triangles) or use a round biscuit cutter for circular potato cakes.

3. Cook Until Golden Brown

  • Heat a nonstick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat and melt 1 tbsp butter.
  • Cook the farls for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
  • Remove from the pan and serve warm!

Notes

  • Use Cold Mashed Potatoes – This makes the dough easier to handle and prevents it from becoming too sticky.
  • Don’t Overwork the Dough – Mix just until combined to keep the texture light and tender.
  • Cook on Medium Heat – Too high, and the outside burns before the inside is fully cooked; too low, and they won’t crisp up properly.

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~200
  • Sodium: ~250mg
  • Fat: ~7g
  • Carbohydrates: ~30g
  • Protein: ~4g