Cream cheese mints have a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings and holidays. That melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing peppermint flavor are pure bliss! I remember my aunt making batches of this simple cream cheese candy for every occasion, and the sweet, cool aroma filled her kitchen. These old fashioned cream cheese mints are so incredibly easy to whip up, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made them sooner. Get ready for a taste of pure nostalgia! Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Cream Cheese Mints
- They offer a delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture with a refreshing peppermint kick.
- These are truly easy cream cheese mints, ready in minutes with minimal effort.
- You’ll appreciate how budget-friendly they are – perfect for any occasion without breaking the bank.
- They’re a hit with the whole family, bringing smiles to kids and adults alike.
- Experience a wonderful sense of nostalgia with these classic, old fashioned cream cheese mints.
- Making these easy cream cheese mints is a fantastic activity to do with children.
- They’re incredibly versatile, fitting in perfectly at parties or as a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Mints
Gathering the right cream cheese mints ingredients is simple for these delightful treats. You only need a few pantry staples to create these melt-in-your-mouth wonders. Here’s what you’ll need for this cream cheese mint recipe:
- 2 cups powdered sugar – This gives the mints their sweet structure and smooth texture.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened – It’s crucial this is softened to room temperature so it beats smoothly without lumps. This is key for achieving the best cream cheese mints.
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract – For that classic, refreshing mint flavor.
- Green food coloring (optional) – Just a few drops add a lovely pastel color, perfect for holidays or parties.
How to Make Cream Cheese Mints
Whipping up these easy cream cheese mints is a breeze, and the result is pure minty perfection. This simple cream cheese mint recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and delicious candy. Let’s get started!
- Step 1: Start by beating the 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened in a medium bowl. You want it really smooth and creamy, almost like a frosting. I like to use an electric mixer for this, but a whisk works too if you’re feeling strong!
- Step 2: Gradually add the 2 cups powdered sugar to the cream cheese. Beat on low speed at first, then increase to medium. Keep mixing until everything is combined and the mixture is smooth and thick. It should look like a soft dough.
- Step 3: Stir in the 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract. This is where that wonderful minty aroma really starts to fill the air! Taste a tiny bit (I always do!) to make sure the peppermint flavor is just right for you.
- Step 4: If you want to give your cream cheese candies a pretty color, now’s the time! Add a few drops of green food coloring (or any color you like!) and mix it in. Keep adding drops until you reach your desired shade for these festive treats.
- Step 5: Once the mixture is smooth and colored, it’s time to shape them. You can either roll small portions into little balls, about 1 inch in diameter, or press the mixture into small candy molds. This is a fun step you can do with kids!
- Step 6: Place your shaped mints on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let the homemade cream cheese mints set at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or until firm to the touch. This allows them to firm up nicely so they aren’t sticky.
Pro Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Mints
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make sure my cream cheese mints turn out absolutely perfect every single time. Follow these tips, and you’ll be making the best cream cheese mints that everyone raves about!
- Make sure your cream cheese is truly softened to room temperature. Cold cream cheese will result in lumpy mints, and that’s not what we want!
- Don’t overmix the powdered sugar into the cream cheese. Once it’s combined and smooth, stop. Overmixing can make the mints tough.
- If you’re using candy molds, lightly grease them with a neutral oil or spray them with non-stick cooking spray before pressing the mixture in. This helps them release cleanly.
- For a smoother texture, you can sift your powdered sugar before adding it. This removes any small lumps and ensures a silky finish for your candies.
What’s the secret to perfect cream cheese mints?
The absolute secret to perfect cream cheese mints is using properly softened cream cheese and not overworking the mixture once the powdered sugar is added. This ensures that lovely melt-in-your-mouth quality. For more tips on achieving the perfect texture, you can explore baking secrets.
Can I make cream cheese mints ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the mint mixture and roll or mold them up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
How do I avoid common mistakes with cream cheese mints?
Avoid using cold cream cheese; it *must* be softened. Also, resist the urge to overmix after adding the powdered sugar, as this can make the mints tough instead of tender.
Best Ways to Serve Cream Cheese Mints
These delightful little sweets are incredibly versatile and add a special touch to any gathering. They are absolutely perfect for cream cheese mints for parties, acting as a sweet, palate-cleansing bite after a meal. For holidays, consider making a batch of festive holiday cream cheese mints in seasonal colors like red and green for Christmas, or pastel shades for Easter. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, and are a lovely addition to a dessert buffet alongside cookies and cakes. Their small size makes them ideal for guests to sample a few! If you’re looking for other party treats, check out these cosmic brownie bites.
Nutrition Facts for Cream Cheese Mints
Here’s a look at the approximate nutritional breakdown for these delightful cream cheese candies, per serving (which is about 1 mint). They are a small, sweet treat that’s perfect for satisfying a craving.
- Calories: 50
- Fat: 1.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 5mg
Nutritional values are estimates and can vary slightly based on the specific brands of ingredients used in your cream cheese mints.
How to Store and Reheat Cream Cheese Mints
Properly storing your homemade cream cheese mints is key to keeping them fresh and delicious. After you’ve shaped and allowed them to firm up, it’s time to think about preservation. For the best results, let your cream cheese mints cool completely at room temperature before storing. Once they are firm, place them in an airtight container. I like to put a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. You can store them in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep these delightful cream cheese candies for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap them well in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they should last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. There’s no need to reheat them; they are best served chilled or at room temperature! For more storage tips, consider these apple cider donut cake storage ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Cheese Mints
What are cream cheese mints?
Cream cheese mints are delightful, melt-in-your-mouth candies made from a simple mixture of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract. They’re known for their soft, almost fudgy texture and refreshing minty flavor. People often associate them with holidays and special occasions because they’re so easy to customize with colors and shapes.
How to make cream cheese mints that are perfectly smooth?
The key to making smooth cream cheese mints is to ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before you start. This allows it to beat into a creamy consistency without lumps. Gradually adding the powdered sugar and mixing until just combined also helps maintain that silky texture. Avoid overmixing once the sugar is in!
Can I make sugar-free cream cheese mints?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this cream cheese mint recipe to be sugar-free. Simply substitute the powdered sugar with a granulated sugar substitute that measures cup-for-cup like sugar and is suitable for candy making. Ensure your substitute doesn’t have a strong aftertaste, as it will be prominent in these simple candies. For other healthy treat ideas, explore healthy kit kat recipes.
What if my cream cheese mints are too sticky?
If your mixture is too sticky to handle, it might mean there’s a bit too much moisture or not enough powdered sugar. Try adding a tablespoon or two more of powdered sugar, mixing it in gently, until you reach a firmer consistency. You can also chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to help it firm up before shaping.
Variations of Cream Cheese Mints You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic cream cheese mint recipe, you’ll want to explore all the fun ways to customize these delightful candies! They’re incredibly adaptable, making them perfect for everyone.
- Sugar-Free Cream Cheese Mints: For a guilt-free treat, swap the powdered sugar for a cup-for-cup sugar substitute that’s suitable for candy making. This allows you to enjoy the classic flavor without the sugar.
- Dairy-Free Cream Cheese Mints: If you need dairy-free options, simply use a good quality dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Many brands offer excellent substitutes that work beautifully in this recipe, making them accessible for more people.
- Vegan Cream Cheese Mints: To create vegan cream cheese mints, you’ll need a plant-based cream cheese and ensure your powdered sugar is vegan (some brands use bone char). The result is a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy!
- Flavor Twists: Don’t be afraid to experiment with extracts! A hint of vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a touch of citrus zest can create unique flavor profiles for your cream cheese candies. For a different sweet treat, try these nutter butter bars.
Irresistible Cream Cheese Mints: A Nostalgic Treat
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 mints 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make classic cream cheese mints with this easy recipe. These sweet, minty candies are perfect for parties or any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined.
- Stir in the peppermint extract.
- If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring and mix until evenly colored.
- Roll the mixture into small balls or press into molds.
- Let the cream cheese mints set for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- For sugar-free cream cheese mints, use a sugar substitute suitable for candy making.
- For dairy-free cream cheese mints, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
- Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mint
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 1.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 3mg
Keywords: Cream Cheese Mints, cream cheese mint recipe, homemade cream cheese mints, easy cream cheese mints, cream cheese candies, peppermint cream cheese candies, old fashioned cream cheese mints
