Making these Cream Cheese Mints is easy, and the results are oh-so-delicious! Follow these simple steps:
- Beat the cream cheese and butter: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the extracts: Mix in the peppermint extract and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Gradually add powdered sugar: Slowly add the powdered sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Keep mixing until the dough is thick, smooth, and no longer sticky.
- Color the mixture: Divide the dough into separate portions if you want different colors. Add 3 to 6 drops of gel food coloring to each portion, then knead it into the dough until the color is evenly distributed.
- Shape the mints: Roll small portions of the dough into 1-inch balls, then flatten them slightly with your hands or a fork. You can also use candy molds to make fun shapes if you like!
- Coat in powdered sugar: Roll each mint in powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking together and give them a smooth finish.
- Chill: Place the mints on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until they firm up and are easy to handle.
- Serve: Once chilled, your cream cheese mints are ready to be served! Keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy them.
Serving and Storage
These Cream Cheese Mints are perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying on your own. Here’s how to store and serve them:
- Serving: Serve these mints chilled or at room temperature. They make great holiday treats, or you can keep them on hand as a refreshing after-dinner candy!
- Storage: Store your mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your Cream Cheese Mints turn out perfectly:
- Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure both your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature to ensure they blend together smoothly.
- Don’t over-mix the dough: Once you’ve added the powdered sugar, be sure not to over-mix. You want the dough to be smooth but not too sticky.
- Customize your colors: You can make these mints in any color you like. For a fun touch, use different colors for different holidays or themes.
- Use candy molds: If you have small candy molds, this is a great way to shape your mints into fun festive shapes like stars, hearts, or trees!
Variations
Want to try something different? Here are a few variations to switch things up:
- Chocolate-Dipped Mints: After shaping the mints, dip them in melted chocolate for an extra layer of flavor. Dark or milk chocolate works beautifully!
- Chocolate Mint Mints: Mix 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the dough for a chocolate-mint twist that will satisfy any chocolate lover.
- Spiced Mints: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for fall or winter.
- Vegan Mints: Substitute the cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives to make these mints vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
These Cream Cheese Mints are a nostalgic treat that will never go out of style. With their smooth, creamy texture and refreshing minty flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you make them as a gift, serve them at a party, or simply enjoy them as a personal indulgence, these mints are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and customizable, they’ll add a festive touch to your holiday treats!
FAQ
1. Can I make these mints in advance?
Yes! These mints can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
2. Can I use a different flavor extract?
Yes, you can! You can replace the peppermint extract with other flavor extracts like spearmint, vanilla, or even cinnamon for a unique twist.
3. Can I use powdered food coloring instead of gel?
Gel food coloring is best because it won’t affect the texture of the mints. Powdered food coloring can work, but it may not give as vibrant a color.
4. How long do the mints need to set in the refrigerator?
The mints should set for at least 1-2 hours to firm up properly. You can leave them in the fridge for longer if you like them extra cold!