Description
Cream Cheese Mints are a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat made from softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar, flavored with refreshing peppermint extract. These bite-sized candies are perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday indulgence and can be customized with gel food coloring for a festive touch.
Ingredients
Mints Dough
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (full fat)
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 8 cups powdered sugar (about 2 lb), plus more for pressing
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (or to taste)
- Gel food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle or flat beater attachment, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Sugar, Salt, and Peppermint: With the mixer running on medium/low speed, add the sea salt followed by 2 cups of powdered sugar. Beat until incorporated. Then add the peppermint extract and gradually add the remaining powdered sugar a heaping tablespoon at a time, allowing each addition to blend fully. Continue mixing for a couple more minutes, scraping down the bowl as necessary to ensure an even mixture.
- Divide and Color Dough (Optional): If desired, divide the dough into separate bowls based on the number of colors you want. Add gel food coloring a drop at a time to each bowl until reaching the preferred pastel shade.
- Form Mints: Working with a quarter of the dough at a time, roll the mixture into small balls about 1 teaspoon each or sized with a small cookie scoop. Ensure to roll until seams disappear to prevent cracking. Place the balls 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Keep the remaining dough covered to prevent drying.
- Press and Flatten: Dip a fork in powdered sugar to prevent sticking, then press the top of each ball with the fork to flatten them into mint shapes. Repeat this process for all batches until all the dough is shaped.
- Dry and Store: Allow the mints to dry and rest at room temperature for at least 2 hours so they set properly. Once set, transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one month or freeze for up to six months.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use gel food coloring sparingly to avoid changing the texture of the dough.
- Pressing with a powdered sugar-dusted fork prevents sticking and gives mints an attractive pattern.
- Allow sufficient drying time at room temperature to help mints firm up properly.
- Store mints in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.
