There’s something delightfully nostalgic about the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture of homemade cream cheese mints. These little bites of sweetness are perfect for weddings, baby showers, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a touch of elegance. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients!

I remember making these with my grandmother as a child, carefully pressing the dough into molds and marveling at how professional they looked once they popped out. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll love how foolproof and fun this recipe is. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Simple Cream Cheese Mints

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite treat. These cream cheese mints are not only a delight to eat but also a joy to make.

First off, they’re incredibly easy and quick to prepare. With just a few pantry staples and no baking required, they’re ready in under an hour (most of that time is just chilling in the fridge!). Perfect for last-minute events or when you’re short on time.

Secondly, they’re super versatile. You can customize the flavors, colors, and shapes to suit any theme or occasion. From pastel hues for springtime celebrations to bold reds and greens for Christmas, these mints are as adaptable as they are delicious.

Finally, they’re budget-friendly. With only five ingredients, you can whip up a big batch without breaking the bank. They also store beautifully, so you can make them ahead and have a stress-free event.

Whether you’re hosting a party, gifting treats, or indulging in some self-care baking, this recipe will quickly become your go-to. Let’s talk ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of cream cheese mints lies in their simplicity. Here’s everything you’ll need to get started, plus a few tips to ensure perfection.

Cream Cheese: The foundation of the recipe, it gives the mints their creamy texture and tangy flavor. Use full-fat cream cheese for the best results. Be sure to let it soften at room temperature before starting.
Powdered Sugar: This is what sweetens the mints and gives them their structure. Sift the powdered sugar beforehand to avoid lumps in the dough.
Butter: Adding a touch of unsalted butter enhances the richness. Like the cream cheese, let it come to room temperature for easy mixing.
Flavor Extracts: The classic choice is peppermint extract, but feel free to get creative with flavors like vanilla, almond, or lemon. Always start with a small amount and taste before adding more.
Food Coloring: While optional, a drop or two of gel food coloring can transform these mints into stunning treats. Gel food coloring is ideal because it doesn’t thin out the dough.

Equipment Needed

For this recipe, you’ll need a mixing bowl, a hand or stand mixer, and a silicone mint mold or fork for creating designs. A piping bag can also come in handy if you want to get fancy with shapes!

How To Make Simple Cream Cheese Mints

Creating these adorable treats is easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a tray of picture-perfect mints in no time.

Start by beating the cream cheese and butter together in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for avoiding lumps in the dough.

Next, gradually add the powdered sugar to the bowl. Mix on low speed, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. It should be pliable but not sticky. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time.

Stir in the flavor extract and food coloring of your choice. Start with just a few drops of color and add more if needed to achieve your desired hue. If you’re making multiple colors, divide the dough into sections before adding the coloring.

Now it’s time to shape the mints. You can roll the dough into small balls and flatten them with a fork for a classic look. Alternatively, press the dough into silicone molds for intricate designs. If using molds, sprinkle them with a little powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Place the shaped mints on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, they’re ready to serve or store!

Storage Options

One of the best things about these mints is how well they keep. Here’s how to store them for optimal freshness.

Refrigerator: Store the mints in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Place wax or parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezer: Cream cheese mints freeze beautifully. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll last for up to 3 months this way.
Room Temperature: While they can be left out for a few hours at a party, they’re best stored chilled to maintain their texture.

When reheating frozen mints, simply transfer them to the fridge and let them thaw overnight.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the joys of making cream cheese mints is how adaptable they are. Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

Flavor Swaps: Experiment with different extracts like orange, coconut, or even rum for a holiday twist.
Color Combinations: Divide the dough and mix multiple colors for a rainbow effect. Perfect for birthdays or pride celebrations!
Add Textures: Roll the mints in granulated sugar or sanding sugar for a sparkly finish.
Shapes and Patterns: Use cookie cutters, piping bags, or even your hands to shape the mints into hearts, stars, or other festive designs.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives. Be sure to choose a brand with a neutral flavor for the best results.

No matter how you customize them, these mints are sure to be a hit!

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making cream cheese mints, you’ll always have a go-to recipe for impressing your guests. With their creamy texture, endless customization options, and ease of preparation, it’s no wonder these little candies have been a classic for generations. Happy mint-making!