The first time I tasted homemade cream cheese mints, I was no more than six years old, standing on a wooden stool in my grandmother’s kitchen, mesmerized by the scent of powdered sugar and peppermint. She always made these for special occasions—weddings, baby showers, and especially the holidays.

I remember how she’d press the little dough balls with a fork, creating perfect ridges, then let me sprinkle them with pastel-colored sugar. “These aren’t just candies,” she’d say, smiling. “They’re tiny bites of love.”

Years later, I found myself recreating her recipe for my best friend’s wedding, carefully molding each mint with the same patience and love. As I watched the guests delight in the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, I realized these mints were more than just a sweet treat—they were a tradition, a connection to moments of joy and celebration.

Now, I want to share this special recipe with you. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a party, or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cream cheese mints are sure to become a treasured part of your own family traditions.

The Sweet History of Cream Cheese Mints

Cream cheese mints have been a beloved confection in American kitchens for decades. Their origins are deeply rooted in Midwestern and Southern traditions, often making appearances at church gatherings, baby showers, and weddings. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with its rich, creamy texture and refreshing peppermint flavor, made it a household favorite.

In the early 1900s, when refrigeration became more common, dairy-based sweets like these mints gained popularity. Cream cheese, introduced by Philadelphia in the late 1800s, became a staple ingredient in many desserts, and its smooth texture proved perfect for creating soft, melt-in-your-mouth confections.

Today, these mints remain a nostalgic treat, evoking memories of special celebrations and family traditions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. No-Bake Simplicity – No need for an oven! This recipe comes together in minutes and requires only a few hours to set.
2. Customizable Flavors & Colors – While peppermint is classic, you can experiment with almond, vanilla, or even citrus extracts. And with a few drops of food coloring, you can match them to any theme.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a wedding, baby shower, holiday gathering, or just a sweet craving, these mints always steal the show.
4. Long Shelf Life – Stored properly, they last for weeks, making them an ideal make-ahead treat.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
• 7 ½ cups (approximately 2 pounds or 900g) powdered sugar, divided
• 1 ½ teaspoons pure mint extract
• Gel food coloring (optional)

Directions:

1. Blend the Base: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Sweeten the Mixture: Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.
3. Add Minty Freshness: Stir in the pure mint extract, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Incorporate Remaining Sugar: Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar, mixing thoroughly until a stiff, non-sticky dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more powdered sugar as needed.
5. Color Your Mints (Optional): Divide the dough into portions based on the number of colors desired. Add a small amount of gel food coloring to each portion and knead until the color is evenly distributed.
6. Shape the Mints: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 teaspoon each. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using a fork dipped in powdered sugar, gently press each ball to create a decorative pattern.
7. Set the Mints: Allow the mints to air dry at room temperature for at least 2 hours. Once set, they can be refrigerated or frozen for longer storage.

Nutritional Information (Per Mint):

• Calories: 50 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 1g
• Protein: 0.1g
• Sodium: 14mg
• Sugar: 10g

The Secret to Perfect Cream Cheese Mints

Creating the perfect batch of cream cheese mints is all about balance. Here are a few expert tips to ensure flawless results:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Softened cream cheese and butter blend more smoothly, creating a silky, lump-free dough. If your ingredients are too cold, the mints may have a grainy texture.

2. Gradually Add Powdered Sugar

Adding too much sugar at once can make the mixture difficult to combine. Work in small batches, mixing thoroughly after each addition for a smooth consistency.

3. Don’t Skip the Drying Time

These mints need to air-dry for at least two hours before storing. This allows them to firm up while maintaining their creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

4. Experiment with Shapes and Molds

While the classic fork-pressed mints are a timeless favorite, you can use silicone candy molds or piping bags to create decorative designs.

5. Store Them Properly

To keep them fresh, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to two months.

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Creative Variations to Try

Want to put your own spin on this classic treat? Try these fun variations:

1. Chocolate-Dipped Mints

Once the mints have dried, dip them halfway into melted dark chocolate and let them set for a decadent twist

2. Citrus Zest Mints

Replace the peppermint extract with lemon or orange extract and add finely grated citrus zest for a refreshing alternative.

3. Festive Swirls

Divide the dough into two colors, roll them into thin ropes, and twist them together before shaping them into rounds.

4. Sprinkle-Coated Mints

Before pressing the mints, roll them in colorful sprinkles or sanding sugar for extra texture and visual appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these without mint extract?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of mint, you can substitute it with vanilla, almond, or coconut extract for a different flavor profile.

2. How long do cream cheese mints last?

They last about two weeks in the refrigerator and up to two months in the freezer. Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

3. Can I make these in advance for an event?

Yes! These mints are perfect for making ahead since they store well. Just ensure they are fully set before packing them up.

4. Why is my dough too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, add a little more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.

5. Do I need to refrigerate them after drying?

Yes, because of the dairy content, it’s best to store them in the fridge or freezer to maintain freshness.

6. Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?

You can, but gel food coloring is preferred as it won’t alter the consistency of the dough like liquid food coloring might.

Conclusion: A Timeless Treat for Every Occasion

Homemade cream cheese mints are more than just a sweet indulgence—they are a piece of nostalgia, a token of love, and a symbol of celebration. Whether you’re making them for a wedding, a holiday gathering, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, these melt-in-your-mouth treats never fail to bring a smile.

With their perfect balance of creamy texture and refreshing peppermint flavor, these mints are a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

So gather your powdered sugar, roll up your sleeves, and start crafting your own batch of homemade cream cheese mints. With every bite, you’ll be reminded that the sweetest moments in life are often the simplest.

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