Cream Cheese Mints: A Refreshingly Easy Holiday Treat

Looking for a delightful and surprisingly simple holiday treat that will impress your guests? Look no further than these creamy, minty delights! Cream Cheese Mints offer a unique twist on traditional holiday candy, combining the cool, refreshing taste of peppermint with the smooth, creamy texture of cream cheese. Forget complicated recipes and messy candy-making – these mints are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less effort. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete novice in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to be a success. Imagine the look on your loved ones’ faces when you present them with these elegant little confections – a perfect addition to any holiday gathering or a thoughtful homemade gift. Get ready to experience the magic of Cream Cheese Mints, a festive flavor sensation that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

These Cream Cheese Mints are more than just a delicious treat; they’re a culinary experience. Here’s what makes them so irresistible:

• Unbelievably Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, even the most inexperienced baker can master this recipe. No special equipment or baking skills required!
• Unexpectedly Delicious: The combination of creamy cream cheese and refreshing peppermint is a revelation. It’s a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting, offering a unique twist on traditional holiday candies.
• Beautifully Elegant: These little mints look incredibly sophisticated, perfect for gifting or serving at your holiday gatherings. Their vibrant green color (optional) and smooth, round shape add a touch of elegance to any dessert spread.
• Highly Customizable: Want to add a little extra crunch? Roll them in crushed peppermint candies. Prefer a different flavor profile? Experiment with other extracts like almond or even orange! The possibilities are endless.
• Perfect for Gifting: Present your homemade Cream Cheese Mints in a beautiful container, and you have a truly thoughtful and delicious gift for friends, family, or colleagues. They’re a unique and memorable alternative to store-bought sweets.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare these mints ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes them perfect for busy holiday schedules. Just chill and enjoy whenever the mood strikes!

This recipe is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. It’s a recipe that will surprise and delight, becoming a cherished addition to your holiday baking repertoire. From the ease of preparation to the elegant presentation, these Cream Cheese Mints are a true winner.

Why You Should Try This Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

Beyond the deliciousness and ease, there are several compelling reasons to try this Cream Cheese Mints recipe:

• Impress Your Guests: These mints are a guaranteed conversation starter. Their unique flavor and elegant presentation will leave your guests wondering about your secret ingredient (it’s cream cheese!).
• Unique Holiday Treat: Break away from the usual holiday cookie and candy routine. Cream Cheese Mints offer a refreshing change of pace and a truly memorable holiday experience.
• Cost-Effective: The ingredients are readily available and inexpensive, making this a budget-friendly option for creating a large batch of holiday treats.
• Perfect for Beginners: This recipe is designed for success, even for those new to baking. The clear instructions and simple techniques make it accessible to everyone.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Experiment with different extracts, add food coloring, or roll them in crushed candies. The recipe allows for creativity and personalization to match your preferences.
• A Healthy(ish) Indulgence: Compared to many other holiday treats, these mints are relatively lower in fat and sugar, allowing for a slightly healthier indulgence.

Ultimately, trying this Cream Cheese Mints recipe is an investment in a delicious and memorable holiday experience. It’s a chance to create something special, impress your loved ones, and enjoy a simple yet satisfying baking project. You won’t be disappointed!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Cream Cheese Mints

Before embarking on this delicious journey, let’s gather our ingredients and tools. Having everything ready beforehand makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. Leaving it out on the counter for about an hour before starting will do the trick.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: This provides the sweetness and helps to create the perfect consistency. Using confectioners’ sugar ensures a smooth and lump-free texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This enhances the overall flavor, complementing the peppermint beautifully. A high-quality vanilla extract will make a noticeable difference.
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (or more, to taste): This is the star of the show! Adjust the amount to your liking, but start with 1/2 teaspoon and add more if you want a stronger peppermint flavor. Pure peppermint extract is recommended for the best flavor.
• Green food coloring (optional): This adds a festive touch and enhances the visual appeal. Gel food coloring provides richer, more vibrant colors than liquid food coloring.
• Crushed peppermint candies (optional, for rolling): These add a delightful crunch and extra peppermint flavor. You can easily crush them in a zip-top bag using a rolling pin.

Necessary Utensils:

• Medium-sized bowl: A bowl large enough to comfortably hold the cream cheese mixture while mixing.
• Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer): This is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy texture. A hand mixer works perfectly, but a stand mixer can make the process even easier.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measuring of all ingredients.
• Spatula or spoon: For scraping down the sides of the bowl and incorporating ingredients.
• Wax paper or parchment paper: For easier rolling and preventing sticking.
• Airtight container: For storing the finished Cream Cheese Mints in the refrigerator.
• Zip-top bag (optional): For crushing the peppermint candies.
• Rolling pin (optional): For crushing the peppermint candies.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Cream Cheese Mints

Now for the fun part – let’s make those Cream Cheese Mints! Follow these steps carefully for the best results:

1. Beat the cream cheese: In your medium bowl, place the softened cream cheese. Using your electric mixer, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until it’s completely smooth and creamy. This is a crucial step; make sure there are no lumps remaining. **Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.**
2. Add the sugar and extracts: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the beaten cream cheese, beating on low speed. This prevents a sugar cloud from forming. Once the sugar is fully incorporated, stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. If using, add a few drops of green food coloring at this stage and mix until evenly distributed. **If the mixture is too soft, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.**
3. Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the cream cheese mixture to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes, or until it’s firm enough to roll into balls. **This chilling step is essential for the mints to hold their shape.**
4. Shape the mints: Once chilled, remove the bowl from the refrigerator. Line a plate or baking sheet with wax paper or parchment paper. Using a small spoon or a melon baller, scoop out small portions of the cream cheese mixture and roll them into 1-inch diameter balls. **Work quickly to prevent the mixture from softening too much.**
5. Roll in crushed candy (optional): If you’re using crushed peppermint candies, place them in a shallow dish. Gently roll each mint ball in the crushed candies until evenly coated. **This step adds a delightful crunch and extra peppermint flavor.**
6. Serve or store: Arrange the finished Cream Cheese Mints on a serving plate or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. **They are best served chilled.**

Tips and Variations for Cream Cheese Mints

Here are some extra tips and variations to help you perfect your Cream Cheese Mints:

• Alternative Extracts: Experiment with other extracts like almond, orange, or even a touch of cinnamon for unique flavor combinations.
• Different Candy Coatings: Try rolling the mints in crushed chocolate candies, sprinkles, or even finely chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Vegan Adaptation: Substitute the cream cheese with a high-quality vegan cream cheese alternative. Ensure it’s firm enough to hold its shape.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you ensure that your cream cheese and any additional coatings are also gluten-free.
• Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, resulting in a less dense and potentially crumbly final product.
• Don’t Skip the Chilling Step: Chilling is crucial for the mints to hold their shape. Allow ample time for the mixture to firm up before rolling.
• Adjust Peppermint to Taste: Start with the recommended amount of peppermint extract and gradually add more to your desired intensity. Taste the mixture before chilling to ensure the flavor is to your liking.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Cream Cheese Mints

While these Cream Cheese Mints are undeniably indulgent, they also offer some nutritional benefits. A serving (approximately 1 mint) will contain a small amount of protein and calcium from the cream cheese, along with some carbohydrates from the powdered sugar. The exact nutritional values will depend on the specific ingredients used. It is best to use a nutrition calculator to determine the exact nutritional content based on your specific ingredient choices.

Cream cheese is a good source of calcium and protein. However, it’s also relatively high in fat, so moderation is key. Peppermint, on the other hand, has long been associated with digestive benefits and can aid in soothing upset stomachs. Remember, these mints are best enjoyed as a treat in moderation.

Please note: The nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes. For precise nutritional data, it’s recommended to use a nutrition calculator and input the exact ingredients used in your recipe.

FAQs

Conclusion: Indulge in the Delight of Cream Cheese Mints

These Cream Cheese Mints are a delightful and unexpected treat that’s perfect for any occasion. From their simple preparation to their elegant presentation, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Remember the key to success lies in properly softening the cream cheese, chilling the mixture thoroughly, and having fun with the optional toppings. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different extracts and coatings to create your own unique flavor combinations. Share your Cream Cheese Mint creations with us in the comments below – we can’t wait to see your culinary masterpieces!

And don’t forget to check out our other delicious recipes on our blog, Noeli’s Recipes! We have everything from savory Spanish dishes like berenjenas con miel to delightful desserts like tarta de queso vasca. Happy baking!

For more inspiration and festive ideas, check out our Pinterest board dedicated to holiday treats!

Cream Cheese Peppermint Mints

These no-bake Cream Cheese Peppermint Mints are a festive and easy treat perfect for the holidays. A simple combination of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract creates a delightful minty confection.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 24 mints

Course: Candy, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 70

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 8 ounces Cream Cheese softened
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1/2 - 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract to taste
• a few drops Green Food Coloring optional
• 1/2 cup Crushed Peppermint Candies optional, for rolling

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric Mixer
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Parchment Paper

Method

 

Instructions

1. Beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. Add green food coloring, if desired, and mix until evenly distributed. Add more powdered sugar if the mixture is too soft.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until firm enough to roll into balls.
5. Roll the chilled mixture into 1-inch diameter balls.
6. Roll the mint balls in crushed peppermint candies, if desired.
7. Place mints on parchment paper to prevent sticking. Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.

Notes

For stronger peppermint flavor, increase the peppermint extract. You can also use different types of crushed candies, such as Andes mints, for variation.