If you are on the hunt for a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat that is both refreshing and charmingly simple, this Cream Cheese Mints Recipe will quickly become your go-to. These petite, pastel-colored mints combine creamy richness with just the right hint of peppermint, creating a candy that’s irresistibly smooth and refreshing. Perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings, gifting, or simply savoring as a sweet pick-me-up, this recipe proves that a handful of humble ingredients can come together to create little bites of bliss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of essential ingredients that bring everything together perfectly. Each component plays its part, whether it’s adding creamy texture, sweetness, or that bright peppermint punch that defines these mints.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The rich and smooth base that gives these mints their creamy texture and melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- Unsalted butter (2 Tbsp, softened): Adds extra smoothness and subtle richness without overpowering the peppermint flavor.
- Powdered sugar (8 cups, about 2 lb plus extra): Provides sweetness and a soft, fudgy consistency that holds the mixture together beautifully.
- Fine sea salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness and brightening the peppermint notes.
- Peppermint extract (1 1/2 tsp or to taste): The star flavor that brings a refreshing, cool note to every bite.
- Gel food coloring (optional): For a festive touch, adding gentle pastel hues to make your mints extra charming.
How to Make Cream Cheese Mints Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Base
Start by beating together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. This step is key to achieving that luxuriously smooth base your mints need. Mixing until silky smooth ensures no lumps remain, setting the stage for even incorporation of the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sweeten and Flavor
With the mixer running on low to medium speed, add the salt first to enhance flavor followed by 2 cups of powdered sugar. When it’s well combined, pour in the peppermint extract. Next, gradually add the rest of the powdered sugar, a heaping tablespoon at a time, ensuring each addition is fully blended before adding more. Keep mixing for a few extra minutes while scraping down the bowl to get a perfectly smooth and fluffy mixture.
Step 3: Add Color (Optional)
If you want to make your mints extra festive, divide the dough into bowls based on how many colors you want. Stir in gel food coloring drop by drop to avoid overpowering the pastel hues. This step allows you to customize each batch with cheerful colors that brighten up any candy dish or gift box.
Step 4: Roll the Mints
Now for the fun part! Working with a quarter of the dough at a time, roll tablespoon-sized balls or use a small cookie scoop for consistency. Be sure to roll thoroughly so the dough seams disappear, preventing cracks as the mints set. Arrange the balls spaced about 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet to give them room to rest.
Step 5: Press and Shape
Keep any remaining dough covered to prevent drying out as you work. Once the batch is rolled, dip a fork in powdered sugar to stop sticking and gently press the fork over each ball to flatten them. This adds a charming texture and keeps the mints looking neat while enhancing their delicate crispness on top.
Step 6: Dry and Store
Allow your mints to rest at room temperature for at least 2 hours to firm up and develop their signature texture. When ready, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a month. These mints also freeze beautifully for up to six months, making them perfect for holiday prep or whenever a sweet refreshment is needed.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Mints Recipe
Garnishes
While these mints are wonderful on their own, try dusting lightly with powdered sugar or adding a sprinkle of finely crushed peppermint candies on top. These finishing touches add texture and visual appeal without overwhelming the smooth peppermint flavor.
Side Dishes
Cream Cheese Mints pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them a lovely treat during afternoon breaks or after dinner. They also complement holiday cookie platters and can be served alongside rich desserts to offer a refreshing palate cleanser.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the mints in colorful candy dishes or wrap them individually in parchment paper tied with festive ribbon for delightful gifts. You can also layer different colored mints in clear jars for a beautiful rainbow effect, perfect for parties or themed events.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, keep your Cream Cheese Mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps them fresh and preserves that creamy texture for up to a month, so you’ll always have a sweet treat on hand.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead of time or simply save some for later, freeze the mints in a sealed container for up to six months. Thaw them in the fridge before serving to maintain their delicate texture.
Reheating
These mints are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. They do not require reheating; simply let them warm up slightly at room temperature after refrigeration for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
For the best texture and flavor, full-fat cream cheese is recommended. Low-fat versions tend to be too watery, which can affect the consistency of the mints.
How do I prevent the mints from cracking?
Rolling the mints until the seams disappear and keeping the dough covered while working helps prevent cracking. Also, don’t let the dough dry out before pressing each mint flat.
Can I adjust the peppermint flavor?
Absolutely! Start with the suggested 1 1/2 teaspoons of peppermint extract and taste the mixture; you can add more if you prefer a stronger mint flavor.
Are there other flavor variations for this recipe?
Yes! You can experiment by swapping peppermint extract for other extracts like vanilla, almond, or orange to create different delightful flavors.
How long do Cream Cheese Mints last at room temperature?
It’s best to store them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and texture. At room temperature, they may soften and become sticky after a few hours.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Cream Cheese Mints Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved favorite among sweet lovers everywhere. The combination of creamy, sweet, and refreshingly minty flavors wrapped in delicate pastel colors makes it an irresistible treat to share or enjoy anytime. Give it a go—you’ll be amazed how such simple ingredients come together to create magic!
Print
Cream Cheese Mints Recipe
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes + 2 hours drying
- Yield: 90-100 mints
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightfully refreshing and creamy, these Cream Cheese Mints are easy-to-make, melt-in-your-mouth candies perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet treat. Combining smooth cream cheese, butter, and plenty of powdered sugar with a burst of peppermint, these no-cook mints can be customized with gel food coloring to add vibrant pastel hues.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (full fat)
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 8 cups powdered sugar (about 2 lb), plus more for pressing
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (or to taste)
- Gel food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle or flat beater attachment, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and well combined.
- Add Sugar and Flavoring: With the mixer on, sprinkle in the salt and add 2 cups of powdered sugar. Beat on medium-low speed until incorporated. Add the peppermint extract, then gradually add the remaining powdered sugar one heaping tablespoon at a time, letting it incorporate between each addition. Continue mixing until fully blended and creamy, scraping down the bowl as needed, and beat for a couple minutes longer.
- Color the Dough (Optional): If desired, divide the dough into separate bowls for each color. Stir in gel food coloring drop by drop to achieve the desired pastel color shade.
- Shape the Mints: Working with about 1/4 of the dough at a time, roll the mixture into small balls roughly 1 teaspoon each or use a small cookie scoop. Roll the balls until seams disappear to prevent cracking. Place the balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Press the Mints: Keep unused dough covered to prevent drying. Dip a fork in powdered sugar to prevent sticking, then gently press the fork onto the top of each mint ball to flatten them slightly. Repeat rolling and pressing for remaining batches.
- Dry and Store: Allow the mints to dry and rest at room temperature for at least 2 hours. Once set, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one month or freeze for up to 6 months.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese and butter are softened for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- Adjust peppermint extract to taste, starting with less if you prefer a milder mint flavor.
- Use gel food coloring sparingly to avoid affecting the texture.
- Press with a powdered sugar-dipped fork to prevent sticking and create a pretty pattern.
- Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness and freeze for longer storage.
- This is a no-cook recipe, making it quick and convenient.
