Simple Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the smooth, creamy sweetness of Cream Cheese Mints. Whether they’re adorning a wedding dessert table or shared during the holidays, these melt-in-your-mouth treats are always a hit. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, they’re perfect for any occasion.

I first discovered these delightful confections while preparing for a friend’s baby shower. Their elegant appearance and irresistible flavor made them an instant favorite among guests. Let me show you how easy it is to make them at home.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

Get ready to impress with the easiest homemade candy ever. These Cream Cheese Mints are as delightful to make as they are to eat.

• No Baking Required: Say goodbye to the oven! With no cooking involved, this recipe is straightforward and stress-free.
• Customizable for Any Occasion: Dye them any color or use molds to create shapes that fit any theme, from pastels for Easter to bold colors for the holidays.
• Budget-Friendly: With just four basic ingredients, you’ll create an entire batch for a fraction of the cost of store-bought candies.
• Perfect Texture and Flavor: The combination of creamy, tangy cream cheese and sweet powdered sugar creates a smooth, slightly chewy mint that melts in your mouth.

Once you try these, you’ll be adding them to every celebration, from family get-togethers to gift boxes.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Cream Cheese Mints lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient works together to create the perfect bite-sized treat.

• Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easier mixing. Avoid low-fat versions, as they may affect the consistency.
• Powdered Sugar: This is the base for the sweetness and structure. Sift the sugar to avoid lumps in the dough.
• Mint Extract: Peppermint extract is the classic choice, but spearmint or even vanilla extract can be used for a twist. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
• Food Coloring (Optional): Gel food coloring works best for vibrant, even tones without thinning the dough.
• Granulated Sugar (for coating): This adds a subtle crunch and prevents sticking while shaping or molding the mints.

No special equipment is needed—just a mixing bowl, spoon, and maybe a fork for decoration. If you want to get fancy, silicone molds or piping bags can help create intricate shapes.

How to Make This Simple Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

Making these delightful mints is as easy as 1-2-3. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
   In a large bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should become thick and pliable. Add ½ teaspoon of mint extract and mix thoroughly.
2. Add Food Coloring (Optional):
   If you’re using food coloring, divide the dough into separate portions and knead in your desired colors. Use gloves to prevent staining your hands.
3. Shape the Mints:
   Roll small pieces of dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. For a decorative touch, flatten them slightly with a fork or press into silicone molds for custom shapes. Dip the fork or molds in granulated sugar to prevent sticking.
4. Set the Mints:
   Arrange the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them air-dry at room temperature for at least 8 hours or overnight. This will firm up the exterior while keeping the centers soft.

From start to finish, these candies take about 20 minutes to make, plus drying time.

Storage Options

Proper storage ensures your Cream Cheese Mints stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container, separated by layers of parchment paper, for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezer: These mints freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers, and they’ll last up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Avoid leaving them out at room temperature for extended periods, especially in warm or humid environments, as they may soften too much.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Cream Cheese Mints is how customizable they are. Here are some ideas to make them your own:

• Flavor Variations: Swap the mint extract for lemon, almond, or vanilla for a completely different taste profile.
• Holiday-Themed Colors: Use red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter, or orange and black for Halloween.
• Add Sprinkles or Edible Glitter: For extra festive flair, dip the tops of the mints in sprinkles before setting them out to dry.
• Chocolate-Dipped Mints: Once dried, dip the mints partially in melted chocolate and let them set for a luxurious twist.
• Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to make them suitable for plant-based diets.

With these options, the possibilities are endless. Feel free to experiment and discover your favorite combinations!

There you have it—a simple, sweet treat that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whip up a batch of Cream Cheese Mints today, and watch them disappear as quickly as you can make them!

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