Cream Cheese Mints

Cream Cheese Mints

The moment I think of Cream Cheese Mints, I’m transported back to my childhood, where every holiday gathering was incomplete without them. My grandmother used to whip up a batch, and I remember the delightful anticipation as we would wait for them to set. These mints were a staple at family parties, bringing smiles and fresh breath with every bite. Their creamy texture combined with the hint of mint made them irresistible. Now, as an adult, I find joy in recreating this nostalgic treat. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the memories and the love put into each mint, making them a cherished recipe in my own home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
0 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
80 kcal
Protein:
1 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
4 g
Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

When I share Cream Cheese Mints with friends, I love witnessing their surprise at how easy they are to make. It’s a simple recipe, yet the results are always impressive. The vibrant colors, the sweet aroma of freshly mixed ingredients, and the joy of rolling them into perfectly shaped balls make it feel like a fun culinary adventure. Nothing beats the satisfaction of seeing everyone enjoy these little bites of nostalgia. Whether it’s a holiday party or just a cozy evening at home, these mints always brighten the occasion, making them a must-have in my recipe arsenal.

Why This Cream Cheese Mints Is a Winner

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best things about Cream Cheese Mints is their versatility. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or simply as a delightful treat for yourself. You can easily customize them with different colors and flavors, making them suitable for any event or season.

Easy to Make

You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip up these mints. The recipe is straightforward, and the steps are easy to follow. With just a few ingredients, you can create something that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.

Great for Sharing

These mints are a fantastic gift idea as well. You can package them in cute boxes or tins, making them a delightful surprise for friends and family. They’re often the stars of any gift table, and people appreciate the thoughtfulness of homemade treats.

Kid-Friendly Activity

Making Cream Cheese Mints can also be a fun activity to do with kids. They love getting hands-on with rolling the mints and adding their favorite colors. It’s a great way to bond and teach them about cooking while having fun in the kitchen.

Key Ingredients for Cream Cheese Mints

Cream Cheese Mints

The ingredients in Cream Cheese Mints are simple but work beautifully together to create a creamy, minty delight. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving that perfect texture and flavor. Here’s why they are key:

  • Cream Cheese: This is the base of our mints, providing a rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the mints and helps achieve the right consistency.
  • Mint Extract: Provides that refreshing minty flavor.
  • Food Coloring: Adds a fun visual element, allowing you to customize your mints for various occasions.
  • Additional Powdered Sugar: Used for dusting to prevent sticking and enhances sweetness.

Instructions for Cream Cheese Mints

Cream Cheese Mints

Making Cream Cheese Mints is a delightful process that brings out your inner chef. Follow these simple steps for minty perfection:

  1. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and mint extract. Using an electric mixer, blend the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. You should see the ingredients come together beautifully, creating a thick paste that’s easy to work with.
  2. Once your mixture is well combined, it’s time to divide the dough into portions. This is where the fun begins! Decide how many colors you want for your mints and form equal parts. Let your creativity shine as you plan the color palette.
  3. Add a few drops of food coloring to each portion. Start mixing with your hands until each dough is uniformly colored. The colors should be vibrant and fun, making your mints visually appealing.
  4. Prepare your baking sheet by dusting it with additional powdered sugar. This step is crucial as it prevents the mints from sticking and adds a sweet finish.
  5. Roll the colored dough into teaspoon-sized balls. Aim for uniformity in size as it makes for better presentation and ensures they set evenly.
  6. Place the rolled balls on the prepared baking sheet. Give them enough space as they might slightly expand while setting.
  7. Using a fork dipped in powdered sugar, gently press down on each ball to create a fun design. This not only adds an aesthetic touch but also helps flatten them slightly for even drying.
  8. Allow the mints to set uncovered for about 4 hours. During this time, they’ll absorb most of the powdered sugar, achieving the perfect texture. You’ll notice them firming up nicely!
  9. Store the mints in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. For added protection, lay pieces of wax paper between the layers to prevent sticking. This will keep them fresh for longer and maintain their delightful taste.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Perfect Consistency: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. This ensures a smooth mixture that incorporates well.
  • Color Mixing: When adding food coloring, start with a small amount. You can always add more to achieve your desired shade.
  • Setting Time: Allowing the mints to sit uncovered is essential. This helps them dry out slightly, preventing them from being too sticky.
  • Storage Tips: Always store your mints in a cool place and ensure they’re tightly sealed to keep them fresh.

Recipe Notes about Cream Cheese Mints

Cream Cheese Mints

Here are some essential notes to ensure your Cream Cheese Mints turn out perfectly each time you make them:

  • Storage: Store mints in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
  • Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these mints! Just ensure they’re in an air-tight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Variations: Feel free to experiment with flavors. Try using different extracts like almond or citrus for a unique twist.
  • Serving Size: These mints are small, so consider how many you want per serving. They’re perfect for nibbling!
  • Occasions: Perfect for holidays, parties, or as a special treat to enjoy yourself. They add a nice touch to gift baskets!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Mints

  • As a Sweet Treat: Enjoy Cream Cheese Mints after meals as a refreshing palate cleanser.
  • Gift Ideas: Package them in decorative boxes or jars for a thoughtful gift. They make a great homemade present!
  • Party Favor: Set them out on a platter during gatherings as a delightful treat for your guests.
  • Seasonal Variations: Customize colors for holidays—think red and green for Christmas or pastel shades for Easter.
  • Pairing: These mints pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, enhancing your beverage experience.

FAQ

Cream Cheese Mints are a delicious, sweet treat made primarily with cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and mint extract. They are known for their creamy texture and refreshing mint flavor, making them a popular choice for parties and special occasions. These mints can be easily customized with different colors and flavors, adding a fun touch to any gathering.

When stored in an air-tight container in the refrigerator, Cream Cheese Mints can last for several weeks. They tend to maintain their flavor and texture well, making them a great make-ahead treat for parties or holidays. Just be sure to keep them sealed to prevent them from drying out.

Yes, you can freeze Cream Cheese Mints! To do this, place them in an air-tight container and separate the layers with wax paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures they come back to their delicious, creamy state.

Absolutely! While mint extract is traditional, you can experiment with various flavors such as almond, lemon, or even chocolate. Just keep in mind that the flavor strength can vary, so start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preference.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cream Cheese Mints are a delightful treat that combines nostalgia, flavor, and simplicity. They bring a sense of joy whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your home, just like it is in mine. With their vibrant colors and creamy texture, you’ll find it hard to resist making them again and again.

Cream Cheese Mints

Cream Cheese Mints

The ultimate treat for any occasion! Cream Cheese Mints are creamy, sweet, and easy to make. These delightful bites are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply indulging yourself. Try making them tonight and bring a taste of nostalgia to your table!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 64 servings
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 80

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons Butter
  • 2 pounds Powdered Sugar
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons Mint Extract (peppermint extract is OK too)
  • Food Coloring various colors
  • Additional Powdered Sugar

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and mint extract. Mix with an electric mixer.
  2. Divide the dough into portions so that you can dye each portion a different color.
  3. Add a few drops of food coloring to the dough and stir until it is uniform in color.
  4. Dust a baking sheet with additional powdered sugar.
  5. Roll the dough into teaspoon-sized balls and place the balls on the baking sheet.
  6. Use a fork dipped in powdered sugar to press down on the mints and make a design.
  7. Allow the mints to set up for about 4 hours (uncovered). They should absorb most if not all the powdered sugar while they are setting up.
  8. Store the mints in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. You may want to lay pieces of wax paper between the layers of mints.

Notes

Store mints in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. You may want to lay pieces of wax paper between the layers of mints.

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