Name: Cream Cheese Mints Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 72
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 oz cream cheese; ¼ tsp peppermint; 3 cups confectioners' sugar; 5 drops red food coloring; 5 drops green food coloring

Cream cheese mints are a delightful treat that adds a refreshing touch to any occasion. These melt-in-your-mouth confections combine the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the invigorating flavor of peppermint, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and coolness. Whether for a holiday gathering or a simple get-together, these mints are sure to impress.

Photos of Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry items, you might need to pick up some peppermint extract if you don't already have it. This ingredient is key to achieving the minty flavor that defines these treats. Additionally, you may want to ensure you have food coloring on hand if you wish to give your mints a festive look.

Ingredients For Cream Cheese Mints

cream cheese: Provides a creamy base with a rich texture.

peppermint extract: Adds a refreshing mint flavor to the mints.

confectioners' sugar: Sweetens and helps thicken the mint dough.

food coloring: Optional, used to tint the mints in colors like red or green.

One reader, Agosto Rowan says:

These cream cheese mints are delightful! The perfect blend of creamy and minty, they melt in your mouth. Easy to make and a hit at parties. Love the festive colors too!

Agosto Rowan

Techniques Required for Making Cream Cheese Mints

How to knead dough: Knead the dough by pressing it with the heels of your hands, folding it over, and repeating the process until it becomes smooth and pliable. How to roll dough: Use a rolling pin to evenly flatten the dough to the desired thickness, ensuring it is consistent throughout. How to cut dough: Use a 1-inch circle cookie cutter to cut out uniform circles from the rolled-out dough.

How To Make Cream Cheese Mints

Enjoy a sweet treat that melts in your mouth with these cream cheese mints made with peppermints, confectioner’s sugar, and cream cheese.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking:

Rest Time: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3ozcream cheese,softened
¼tsppeppermint
3cupsconfectioners’ sugar,divided
5dropsred food coloring,optional
5dropsgreen food coloring,optional

Instructions

Add the cream cheese and extract to a stand mixer. Beat in the powdered sugar.
Knead the dough for 1 minute, then add desired food coloring if using.
Roll the dough out to ¼-inch thickness.
Cut out circles with a 1-inch circle cookie cutter.
Let harden for 2 to 3 hours before storing.

Nutrition

Calories: 23.49kcal
Fat: 0.40g
Saturated Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.10g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g
Carbohydrates: 5.04g
Fiber: 0.00g
Sugar: 4.93g
Protein: 0.07g
Cholesterol: 1.30mg
Sodium: 4.41mg
Calcium: 1.21mg
Potassium: 1.74mg
Iron: 0.01mg
Vitamin A: 4.33µg
Vitamin C: 0.00mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

When adding food coloring to the dough, divide it into smaller portions and knead each portion separately with the desired color. This ensures even distribution and allows you to create multiple colors without mixing them.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

Soften the cream cheese: Leave the cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes to make it easier to mix.

Use a food processor: Combine the cream cheese, peppermint extract, and confectioners' sugar in a food processor for faster blending.

Divide and conquer: Split the dough into smaller portions before adding food coloring to save time on kneading.

Use parchment paper: Roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Speed up hardening: Place the mints in the refrigerator to harden more quickly, reducing the wait time to about 1 hour.

Substitute Ingredients For Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

cream cheese - Substitute with mascarpone cheese: Mascarpone has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making it a suitable alternative for cream cheese in mints.
peppermint - Substitute with spearmint extract: Spearmint extract provides a similar minty flavor, though slightly sweeter, which can work well in place of peppermint.
confectioners' sugar - Substitute with powdered erythritol: Powdered erythritol is a low-calorie sweetener that mimics the texture and sweetness of confectioners' sugar.
red food coloring - Substitute with beet juice: Beet juice provides a natural red color without artificial additives, suitable for replacing red food coloring.
green food coloring - Substitute with matcha powder: Matcha powder offers a natural green hue and a subtle flavor, making it a good alternative to green food coloring.

Presenting Your Homemade Cream Cheese Mints

Use elegant serving plates: Choose small, pristine white plates to highlight the delicate cream cheese mints.
Create a color gradient: Arrange the mints in a gradient from red to green, showcasing the beautiful hues.
Add edible gold leaf: Place tiny flakes of edible gold leaf on top of each mint for a touch of luxury and sophistication.
Incorporate fresh mint leaves: Garnish the plate with a few fresh mint leaves to enhance the peppermint flavor and add a pop of natural green.
Use a fine dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with confectioners' sugar to create a snowy effect, adding a whimsical touch.
Serve with a small fork: Provide a miniature fork or a delicate pair of tongs to elevate the dining experience and maintain the elegance of the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Cream Cheese Mints

Stand mixer: Used to combine the cream cheese and peppermint extract with the powdered sugar until smooth.
Mixing bowl: Holds the cream cheese and peppermint extract while they are being mixed with the powdered sugar.
Spatula: Helps to scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl and ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Rolling pin: Used to roll out the dough to a ¼-inch thickness.
1-inch circle cookie cutter: Cuts out the dough into uniform circles.
Parchment paper: Provides a non-stick surface for the dough to be rolled out and cut on.
Baking sheet: Holds the cut-out mints while they harden for 2 to 3 hours.
Measuring spoons: Measures the peppermint extract and food coloring accurately.
Food coloring: Adds desired colors to the dough for visual appeal.
Hands: Used to knead the dough for 1 minute to ensure it is smooth and well-mixed.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Cream Cheese Mints

Once the cream cheese mints have hardened, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
To keep the mints fresh and prevent them from sticking together, place a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper between each layer of mints in the container.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cream cheese mints:
1. Place the mints in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Freeze the mints until they are solid, about 1-2 hours.
3. Transfer the frozen mints to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating each layer with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
4. Label the container or bag with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen cream cheese mints, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Avoid storing the mints in a humid environment, as excess moisture can cause them to become sticky and lose their shape.

Interesting Fact About Cream Cheese Mints

A random fact about this recipe is that cream cheese mints are often served at weddings, baby showers, and holiday parties. They are a popular choice because they can be made in advance and stored for several weeks, allowing hosts to prepare them ahead of time.

Is Making Cream Cheese Mints at Home Cost-Effective?

This cream cheese mints recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With minimal ingredients like cream cheese, peppermint extract, and confectioners' sugar, the overall expense is low. The food coloring adds a festive touch without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $5. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Cream Cheese Mints Healthy or Unhealthy?

The cream cheese mints recipe is not particularly healthy due to its high sugar content and lack of nutritional value. The main ingredients are cream cheese and confectioners' sugar, which are both high in calories and low in essential nutrients. While the recipe does include a small amount of peppermint extract, which may have some minor digestive benefits, it is not enough to offset the negative aspects of the other ingredients. Additionally, the food coloring used in the recipe is artificial and may have potential health risks.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of confectioners' sugar and replace some of it with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract
Use low-fat or non-fat cream cheese to reduce the calorie and fat content
Incorporate some healthy ingredients like fresh mint leaves, which are rich in antioxidants and have digestive benefits
Use natural food coloring derived from fruits and vegetables instead of artificial coloring
Limit the portion size and enjoy the mints in moderation as part of a balanced diet

Editor's Opinion on This Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

This cream cheese mints recipe is simple yet delightful, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any occasion. The combination of cream cheese and peppermint creates a refreshing flavor, while the confectioners' sugar ensures a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The addition of food coloring allows for customization, making these mints visually appealing. However, consider chilling the dough slightly before rolling to make handling easier. Overall, this recipe is a charming and versatile treat that can be tailored to suit various themes and events.

Enhance Your Cream Cheese Mints Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the delightful crunch of Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts contrasts beautifully with the sweet and creamy cream cheese mints, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon Balls: Picture succulent melon balls wrapped in delicate slices of prosciutto. The salty, savory notes of the prosciutto perfectly complement the refreshing sweetness of the melon, making it an ideal companion to the rich and minty cream cheese mints.

Butternut Squash Soup: Envision a velvety butternut squash soup with hints of nutmeg and cinnamon. The creamy texture and warm spices of the soup provide a comforting contrast to the cool, refreshing taste of the cream cheese mints, making each bite a delightful experience.

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Think of juicy pineapple chunks grilled to caramelized perfection, threaded onto skewers. The smoky sweetness of the pineapple pairs exquisitely with the cool, minty creaminess of the cream cheese mints, creating a tropical escape for your taste buds.

Caprese Salad: Visualize a Caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with a balsamic reduction. The fresh, vibrant flavors of the salad provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, minty sweetness of the cream cheese mints, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Delicious Alternatives to Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

Peppermint Patties: Dive into the world of homemade desserts with these delightful peppermint patties. A perfect blend of creamy chocolate and refreshing mint, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Chocolate Truffles: Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of chocolate truffles. These bite-sized desserts are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing guests with minimal effort.

Lemon Bars: Brighten up your day with zesty lemon bars. The perfect balance of tart and sweet, these desserts are a refreshing treat that will leave you craving more.

Vanilla Fudge: Experience the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth delight of vanilla fudge. This classic dessert is easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Coconut Macaroons: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with these chewy coconut macaroons. A delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of coconut with a hint of vanilla.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. These bite-sized treats feature mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs. The filling is then topped with a generous amount of Parmesan cheese and baked until golden brown. The result is a crispy, flavorful appetizer that pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never disappoints. This appetizer consists of toasted bread slices rubbed with garlic and drizzled with olive oil. The topping is a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy finish, making each bite a burst of fresh, zesty flavors.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. Marinate the chicken in a blend of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Grill to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite every time. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. Hollow out vibrant bell peppers and fill them with a savory mixture of ground beef or turkey, rice, tomato sauce, and a blend of spices. Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbling. This dish is perfect for a hearty dinner and can be paired with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Why trust this Cream Cheese Mints Recipe:

This recipe for cream cheese mints is a tried-and-true favorite, perfect for any occasion. The combination of cream cheese and peppermint extract creates a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat. With just a few simple ingredients like confectioners' sugar and food coloring, you can easily customize these mints to match any theme or holiday. The straightforward instructions ensure that even novice bakers can achieve perfect results. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, versatility, and delicious outcome.

Want to share your experience making these delightful Cream Cheese Mints or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum and let's talk about this delicious treat!

FAQ:

How long do these cream cheese mints last?

These mints can last up to 2 weeks if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.

Can I use a different flavor extract instead of peppermint?

Absolutely! You can substitute peppermint with other extracts like vanilla, almond, or lemon to suit your taste.

Do I have to use food coloring?

Nope, food coloring is optional. If you prefer, you can leave the mints their natural color, which will be a creamy white.

Can I make these mints without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can. If you don't have a stand mixer, you can use a hand mixer or even mix by hand, though it might take a bit more elbow grease.

How do I prevent the dough from sticking when rolling it out?

To prevent sticking, you can dust your work surface and rolling pin with a bit of confectioners' sugar. This will help keep the dough manageable.