Are you in need of a sweet treat that’s both refreshing and indulgent?
Look no further than these delightful cream cheese mints!
With their creamy texture, subtle mint flavor, and irresistible sweetness, these homemade mints are perfect for weddings, showers, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a little something special.
Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make and can be customized with different colors and shapes to suit your event’s theme.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your guests with these irresistible cream cheese mints!
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- Food coloring (optional)
- Granulated sugar, for rolling (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Add Flavor:
Add the pure peppermint extract to the cream cheese mixture and beat until well combined.
You can adjust the amount of peppermint extract to suit your taste preferences – add more for a stronger mint flavor or less for a milder taste.
Gradually Add Powdered Sugar:
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until well incorporated after each addition.
Continue adding powdered sugar until the mixture forms a smooth, stiff dough that holds its shape when pressed together.
Color the Dough (Optional):
If desired, divide the dough into smaller portions and add a few drops of food coloring to each portion.
Knead the dough until the color is evenly distributed and reaches your desired shade.
You can use gel food coloring for vibrant colors or natural food coloring for a more subtle hue.
Shape the Mints:
Once the dough is colored (if using), roll it into small balls or press it into molds to create your desired shapes.
You can use traditional mint molds, cookie cutters, or simply roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly with your fingers.
Roll in Sugar (Optional):
For an extra touch of sweetness and texture, you can roll the shaped mints in granulated sugar before placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
This step is optional but adds a delightful crunch and sparkle to the finished mints.
Chill the Mints:
Place the shaped mints in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1-2 hours, or until firm.
Chilling the mints helps them set and hold their shape, making them easier to handle and enjoy.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, remove the mints from the refrigerator and transfer them to an airtight container for storage or serve them immediately.
These cream cheese mints are best enjoyed chilled and can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Tips for Success:
Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
Sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the cream cheese mixture to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth dough.
If the dough becomes too soft or sticky to handle, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before shaping.
Get creative with shapes and colors to match your event’s theme or personal preferences. You can use different molds, cookie cutters, or even shape the dough by hand into unique designs.
Variations:
Experiment with different flavor extracts, such as vanilla, almond, or citrus, for a unique twist on classic cream cheese mints.
Add finely chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or crushed candy canes to the dough for added texture and flavor.
Storage:
Store the cream cheese mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
You can also freeze the mints for longer storage – simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.