If you have a fondness for nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth treats that bring pure joy with every bite, then this Cream Cheese Mints Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. These pastel-colored, buttery little pillows of sweetness balance the smooth richness of cream cheese with the refreshing zing of mint, making them a perfect bite-sized delight for holidays, parties, or simply an anytime indulgence. They are incredibly easy to make yet impressively charming — a classic recipe that truly brightens up any gathering with its creamy texture and delicate flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cream Cheese Mints Recipe shines because of how simple and few the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role in building that luscious texture and vibrant flavor. From the creamy base to the fresh mint zing and the pop of color, every component is essential.
- 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature): Provides the smooth, tangy foundation essential for the creamy texture of the mints.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps the mints hold their shape without being too dense.
- 1 pound powdered sugar (+ extra for sprinkling): Sweetens perfectly and gives the mints their delicate, meltaway feel.
- Few drops of mint extract: Infuses the signature refreshing flavor that defines these mints.
- Few drops of red food coloring: Offers a charming pastel tint, making these treats visually inviting and perfect for gift-giving.
How to Make Cream Cheese Mints Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Base
Start by placing the softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar into a stand mixer. Blend them together until the mixture resembles smooth play dough in texture, indicating everything is fully incorporated. This step is crucial for the creamy consistency that makes these mints so irresistible. Then, add a few drops of mint extract to infuse that fresh cooling essence, followed by a splash of red food coloring to tint your mints just the way you like. Blend again until the color is even and beautiful.
Step 2: Shape Your Mints
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, then sprinkle powdered sugar generously over the paper. This prevents sticking and adds a delicate hint of sweetness to the bottom of each mint. Take small portions of your mint dough and roll them into tiny balls, roughly the size of marbles, and place them neatly on the sugar-dusted sheet. This step invites some creativity – you can keep them uniform or mix sizes for a charming variety.
Step 3: Add the Signature Fork Impression
For the iconic mint look, dip the prongs of a fork into the powdered sugar on the sheet and gently press down on the top of each mint ball. This gives a delicate indentation and adds a touch of rustic charm while preventing the fork from sticking to the creamy surface. It’s a small detail that makes these mints look extra special.
Step 4: Let Them Dry and Set
Patience is key here. Allow your mints to sit at room temperature for a few hours until they are no longer wet on top and have firmed up nicely. This drying step ensures that the mints have the perfect texture—soft but holding together beautifully. When ready, transfer them to the fridge or freezer to store as needed and keep their freshness locked in.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Mints Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little extra flair to your Cream Cheese Mints Recipe is easy and fun. Consider sprinkling the mints with a tiny pinch of edible glitter for sparkle, or a light dusting of extra powdered sugar just before serving. For seasonal occasions, add a fresh mint leaf on the side or a small edible flower to elevate their presentation without overpowering their delicate flavor.
Side Dishes
These mints are the perfect sweet ending to a variety of light dishes and drinks. Pairing them with a hot cup of herbal tea or a crisp summer lemonade can be utterly delightful. They also complement rich holiday meals by providing a cool, refreshing note that cleanses the palate, making them a thoughtful finish to your menu.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your Cream Cheese Mints Recipe with a little extra personality by arranging them in decorative tins tied with ribbon for gift-giving. Alternatively, place them on pretty glass plates or tiered dessert stands during gatherings to entice guests with their cheerful colors and homemade charm. Wrapping individual mints in wax paper or cellophane can also make lovely, personalized party favors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These mints keep beautifully in an airtight container stored in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and maintain their delightful texture for up to two weeks, giving you plenty of time to enjoy them or share with friends.
Freezing
If you want to make your Cream Cheese Mints Recipe ahead for later occasions, they freeze wonderfully. Place the mints in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag to avoid clumping. They’ll last up to three months frozen, ready to thaw gently in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Since these mints are best enjoyed chilled and tender, reheating is not necessary. Simply allow frozen mints to defrost in the fridge, then bring them to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This helps restore their soft texture without losing flavor or consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor extract instead of mint?
Absolutely! While this Cream Cheese Mints Recipe is classic with mint, you can experiment with other extracts like vanilla, almond, or peppermint to create your own personalized flavor profile.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer? Can I mix by hand?
Yes, mixing by hand with a sturdy wooden spoon or hand mixer works fine. Just make sure the cream cheese and butter are very soft at room temperature to help everything combine smoothly without lumps.
Why does the dough feel sticky sometimes?
The mixture can be a bit sticky depending on humidity or ingredient temperature, but adding a little extra powdered sugar slowly will help you reach the right “play dough” consistency needed to roll the mints easily.
Can I make these sugar-free or lower in calories?
You can try substituting powdered sugar with a powdered sugar substitute suitable for baking, but keep in mind this may affect the texture and sweetness level. For best results, use standard powdered sugar since it’s key to the creamy, meltaway texture.
How long should I let the mints dry before storing?
Let the mints dry at least 2 to 3 hours at room temperature until they feel firm on the outside. This step helps them hold their shape and prevents them from sticking together in storage.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Mints Recipe is one of those timeless keepsakes that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen. So easy, utterly delicious, and charming in both flavor and appearance, these little treats deserve a spot in your recipe collection. Give them a try – I promise you’ll love how they brighten your day and bring smiles to anyone lucky enough to taste them.
Print
Cream Cheese Mints Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus drying time of a few hours
- Yield: 24 mints
- Category: Confectionery
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully creamy and refreshing Cream Cheese Mints made with a smooth blend of cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and mint extract. These no-bake, colorful mints are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet homemade treat, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a subtle minty flavor.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 lb powdered sugar + more for sprinkling
Flavoring and Coloring
- Few drops of mint extract
- Few drops of red food coloring
Instructions
- Prepare Mixture: In a stand mixer, combine the room temperature cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar. Mix until the mixture is thoroughly incorporated and has a play-doh like consistency. Add a few drops of mint extract and blend again to evenly distribute the flavor. Next, add a few drops of red food coloring and mix until the desired color is achieved.
- Form Mints: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and sprinkle it with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Roll the mint mixture into small balls and place them spaced apart on the prepared sheet.
- Shape and Texture: Dip a fork into the powdered sugar on the baking sheet, and gently press the fork into the tops of each mint ball to create a textured impression, which enhances the look and prevents sticking.
- Set and Store: Allow the mints to dry for a few hours at room temperature until they firm up and are no longer wet to the touch. Store the mints in the refrigerator or freezer to retain freshness and maintain their texture.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- If the mixture feels too sticky, add a little more powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached.
- Let the mints dry completely before storing to prevent them from sticking together.
- You can adjust the amount of food coloring for a more subtle or vibrant color.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for longer storage.
