Cream Cheese Mints

Cream Cheese Mints

There’s something undeniably charming about cream cheese mints. These little bites of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness have graced wedding receptions, holiday parties, and afternoon tea tables for generations. Their delicate texture and refreshing flavor make them a timeless treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this cream cheese mints recipe is a foolproof way to create something delightful with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’ve never tried making cream cheese mints at home, you’re in for a treat. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your dessert repertoire:

  • Effortless Elegance – With just a handful of ingredients and no baking required, these mints look and taste like they came from a professional bakery.
  • Customizable Flavors – From classic peppermint to fruity variations, you can tailor these mints to suit any occasion or personal preference.
  • Perfect for Gifting – Packaged in a pretty box or tin, homemade cream cheese mints make a thoughtful and impressive edible gift.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Texture – The smooth, creamy consistency melts delicately on the tongue, making them irresistible to guests of all ages.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – These mints can be prepared days in advance, freeing up your time for other party preparations.

Ingredients Breakdown

Understanding the role of each ingredient will help you achieve the perfect batch of cream cheese mints every time.

  • Cream Cheese – The star of the show, cream cheese provides the rich, tangy base that balances the sweetness. Always use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture.
  • Powdered Sugar – This fine sugar dissolves seamlessly into the cream cheese, creating a smooth consistency without graininess.
  • Peppermint Extract – The classic flavoring, peppermint extract delivers that refreshing, cool finish. A little goes a long way.
  • Food Coloring (optional) – A drop or two of gel food coloring can transform these mints into festive, eye-catching confections.
  • Granulated Sugar (for coating) – Rolling the mints in sugar adds a slight crunch and keeps them from sticking together.

How to Make Cream Cheese Mints

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly creamy, melt-in-your-mouth mints.

  1. Soften the Cream Cheese – Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until soft. This ensures a smooth, lump-free mixture.
  2. Combine Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Stir in the peppermint extract.
  3. Add Color (Optional) – If using food coloring, add it drop by drop until you achieve the desired hue. Gel coloring works best for vibrant shades without thinning the mixture.
  4. Shape the Mints – Roll teaspoon-sized portions of dough into balls, then flatten slightly with a fork or the bottom of a glass. For uniform shapes, consider using a small candy mold.
  5. Coat in Sugar – Roll each mint in granulated sugar for a delicate sparkle and to prevent sticking.
  6. Chill to Set – Place the mints on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This helps them firm up.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Take your cream cheese mints from good to exceptional with these expert techniques.

  • For ultra-smooth mints, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the cream cheese.
  • If the mixture feels too sticky, chill it for 15 minutes before shaping. This makes handling much easier.
  • Experiment with extracts like vanilla, almond, or even citrus for unique flavor profiles.
  • Use decorative sugar or edible glitter instead of plain granulated sugar for a festive touch.
  • For a polished look, dust the molds with powdered sugar before pressing in the mint mixture.

Variations and Substitutions

This versatile recipe welcomes creativity. Try these delicious twists.

  • Chocolate-Dipped Mints – After chilling, dip half of each mint in melted chocolate for an elegant contrast.
  • Fruit Flavors – Swap peppermint for strawberry, orange, or lemon extract for a bright, fruity variation.
  • Vegan Version – Use dairy-free cream cheese and ensure your sugar is vegan-certified.
  • Spiced Mints – Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm, seasonal flavor.
  • Miniature Shapes – Use tiny cookie cutters to create heart, flower, or holiday-themed mints.

What to Serve With It

While delicious on their own, cream cheese mints pair beautifully with.

  • Afternoon tea selections like scones and finger sandwiches
  • A dessert charcuterie board featuring chocolates and fresh berries
  • Champagne or sparkling wine for wedding or celebration menus
  • Hot cocoa or coffee as a sweet after-dinner treat
  • Ice cream as a decorative and flavorful topping

How to Store and Reheat

Proper storage ensures your mints stay fresh and delicious.

  • Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
  • Freezing – These mints freeze beautifully for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Room Temperature – They can sit out for several hours during events but should be refrigerated afterward.
  • No Reheating Needed – These are meant to be served cold or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to common cream cheese mint queries.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
While possible, full-fat cream cheese yields the best texture and flavor. Low-fat versions may make the mints gummy.

Why are my mints too sticky?
This usually means you need more powdered sugar. Add it gradually until the mixture is pliable but not sticky.

How far in advance can I make these?
They actually improve in flavor after 24 hours. Make them up to a week ahead for best results.

Can I use liquid food coloring?
Yes, but use sparingly as it can thin the mixture. Gel or paste colors are preferable.

Are these the same as wedding mints?
Yes! This classic recipe is often used for weddings, though you can adapt the shapes and colors for any occasion.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason cream cheese mints have stood the test of time. They represent that perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication, offering a sweet bite that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Whether you’re preparing for a special event or simply want to treat yourself to something sweet, this recipe delivers joy in every tiny package. I love making these with my grandmother’s vintage candy molds, creating edible heirlooms that carry forward family traditions. Whatever your reason for making them, I hope these cream cheese mints bring as much happiness to your kitchen as they have to mine.

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Cream Cheese Mints

  • Author: Baking Enthusiast

Description

These delightful cream cheese mints are soft, creamy, and perfect for parties, weddings, or holiday treats. They are easy to make and can be customized with different flavors and colors.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • For the mints:
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (or other flavor extracts like vanilla or almond)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • For coating:
  • Granulated sugar or additional powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

  1. 1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
  2. 2. Add the peppermint extract (or other flavor extract) and mix well.
  3. 3. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture will become thick and dough-like.
  4. 4. If using food coloring, add a few drops and knead it into the dough until the color is evenly distributed.
  5. 5. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1/2 to 1 inch in diameter).
  6. 6. Roll each ball in granulated sugar or powdered sugar to coat lightly.
  7. 7. Flatten each ball slightly with a fork or a decorative mold to create a mint shape.
  8. 8. Place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them dry at room temperature for at least 1-2 hours to set.
  9. 9. Once set, store the mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

For a festive touch, use different food colors and molds for various occasions. These mints can also be frozen for longer storage.

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