Cream Cheese Mints

If you have a soft spot for delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treats, you’re going to adore this recipe for Cream Cheese Mints. These little gems offer the perfect balance of smooth, creamy texture with a refreshing minty burst, making them ideal for weddings, parties, or simply a sweet treat to enjoy anytime. Learn how to make smooth, melt-in-your-mouth Cream Cheese Mints at home with this easy, step-by-step recipe perfect for any occasion, and impress your friends and family with this homemade classic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressively simple: Only a few ingredients are needed, with straightforward steps anyone can follow.
• Super creamy texture: The cream cheese base creates a smooth, rich bite that melts perfectly on your tongue.
• Customizable flavors: Easily tailor the mints with different extracts or colors to suit any holiday or event.
• Perfect gift idea: Packaged in pretty jars, these mints make thoughtful homemade gifts.
• Long-lasting freshness: Stored properly, these mints keep their flavor and texture for weeks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a flawless balance of flavor and texture. Each item plays a key role — from lending creaminess to adding sweetness and minty freshness.

• Cream cheese: Use softened full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest and smoothest base.
• Powdered sugar: Provides sweetness while ensuring the mints have the perfect firm yet tender texture.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps the mints hold their shape.
• Mint extract: The star flavor that gives the mints their refreshing taste; adjust based on your preference.
• Food coloring (optional): Use a drop or two of green or pastel colors to match any occasion.

Variations for Cream Cheese Mints

One of the best things about Cream Cheese Mints is how easy it is to experiment and make them your own. Whether you’re adapting to dietary needs or just craving new flavors, these variations will inspire you.

• Chocolate dipped: Dip finished mints in melted dark or white chocolate for an elegant twist.
• Flavored extracts: Try peppermint, spearmint, vanilla, or even almond extract to switch up the flavor profile.
• Vegan version: Substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives for a dairy-free option.
• Colorful swirls: Add two colors of food coloring and lightly swirl before shaping for a fun look.
• Crunchy toppings: Roll mints in finely crushed candy canes, colored sugar, or crushed nuts for extra texture.

How to Make Cream Cheese Mints

Step 1: Soften and blend the cream cheese and butter

Begin by letting your cream cheese and butter sit at room temperature until fully softened. This ensures they mix smoothly without lumps. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat them together until creamy and well combined.

Step 2: Add powdered sugar and mint extract

Gradually sift in the powdered sugar while mixing to keep the texture silky and light. Stir in your mint extract carefully—start with a small amount and adjust to taste so the mint flavor is fresh but not overpowering.

Step 3: Add food coloring if desired

If you want your Cream Cheese Mints to have that classic pastel or vibrant green hue, add a drop or two of food coloring. Mix gently until the color is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Shape the mints

Pinch off small pieces of the mixture and roll them into tiny balls or shape into small discs about 1 inch in diameter. You can use a melon baller or your hands for perfect uniformity.

Step 5: Chill and firm up

Arrange the mints on a parchment-lined tray and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This step is crucial to allow them to set and develop that signature melt-in-your-mouth consistency.

Pro Tips for Making Cream Cheese Mints

• Room temperature is key: Make sure cream cheese and butter are soft to avoid lumps and create smooth dough.
• Sift powdered sugar: This prevents clumps and ensures even sweetness throughout the mixture.
• Control mint flavor intensity: Add extract gradually and taste test before adding more.
• Keep hands cool: If hands get warm, the mints can become oily or too soft; dip your fingers in cold water between shaping.
• Chill fully: Don’t skip chilling—it’s essential for mints’ texture and shape.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Mints

Garnishes

Top your Cream Cheese Mints with a sprinkle of finely crushed peppermint candy, edible glitter for sparkle, or a tiny silver dragée for that elegant touch perfect for parties and celebrations.

Side Dishes

Pair these mints with light teas like chamomile or peppermint tea, or serve them alongside coffee and dessert platters featuring fruit and nuts for a delightful contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Place the mints in mini cupcake liners or arrange them beautifully in decorative candy boxes. You can also thread them onto skewers with other small treats for an eye-catching candy bouquet.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Cream Cheese Mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks to keep them fresh and delicious.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the mints in a sealed container layered with parchment paper; they will maintain flavor and texture for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

These mints are best enjoyed chilled and do not require reheating. If too firm from the fridge or freezer, simply let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Cream Cheese Mints without butter?

Yes, you can use cream cheese alone for a slightly different texture, but butter adds richness and helps the mints hold their shape better.

Is it possible to make these mints sugar-free?

Substitute powdered sugar with powdered erythritol or another powdered sugar alternative, but note the texture might vary slightly.

How long do Cream Cheese Mints last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, they keep fresh for up to two weeks and can be frozen for longer storage.

Can I add other flavors besides mint?

Absolutely! Vanilla, almond, or even citrus extracts make delicious variations while keeping the creamy mint texture.

How do I prevent mints from being too soft or crumbly?

Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened but not melted, sift powdered sugar to avoid lumps, and chill the mints thoroughly before serving.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about making Cream Cheese Mints at home — the creamy texture, the refreshing mint flavor, and the joy of sharing a lovingly-crafted treat. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon indulgence, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles. Give it a try and watch these melt-in-your-mouth gems disappear fast!

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