There's nothing quite like the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of homemade Cream Cheese Mints. These delightful treats are perfect for weddings, baby showers, or a quick, sweet indulgence any day of the week. With their creamy texture and a hint of sweetness, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious.

I first discovered these mints when planning my sister’s bridal shower. They were such a hit that they’ve become a staple at every celebration we host. Whether you need a last-minute dessert or a thoughtful gift, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive in and see why these Cream Cheese Mints are so special.

Why You'll Love This Simple Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with a treat that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. These Simple Cream Cheese Mints offer the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and versatility.

First off, they’re incredibly quick to prepare. With just a few ingredients and no baking required, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes. They're a lifesaver when you’re short on time but still want to impress.

The recipe is endlessly customizable. From colors to flavors, you can tailor these mints to suit any occasion or personal preference. Whether you stick with classic peppermint or venture into other extracts like almond or vanilla, there’s no limit to the creativity these mints inspire.

They store beautifully, making them a great make-ahead option. You can prepare them days in advance and still have them taste fresh and delicious for your event.

Lastly, they look as good as they taste. Their dainty size, smooth texture, and pastel colors add a touch of elegance to any table setting. You’ll feel like a pro baker when serving these at your next gathering.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Cream Cheese Mints lies in their simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Cream cheese is the star of this recipe. Its smooth, creamy texture serves as the base for these mints. Be sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and consistency. Let it soften at room temperature to ensure a smooth mixture.

Powdered sugar acts as both a sweetener and a thickener. It gives the mints their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. Sift the powdered sugar before adding it to avoid lumps in the mixture.

Peppermint extract adds the classic minty flavor that makes these treats so irresistible. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste—peppermint can be quite strong!

Food coloring is optional but adds a festive touch. Gel food coloring is ideal for achieving vibrant colors without altering the consistency of the mixture. Choose shades that match your event or theme.

Granulated sugar is used for coating the mints. It prevents them from sticking together and adds a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.

For this recipe, you’ll also need a mixer and a piping bag or small molds to shape the mints.

How To Make This Simple Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

Making Cream Cheese Mints is a breeze and requires no baking, just a few simple steps.

Start by beating the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until it’s smooth and creamy. Use an electric mixer for the best results—this will ensure there are no lumps in the base.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The mixture should become thick but pliable, like a soft dough. Add a few drops of peppermint extract and mix well.

If you’re using food coloring, divide the dough into portions and knead in the colors of your choice. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve your desired shade.

Roll the dough into small balls, about the size of a marble, and then flatten them with a fork or your fingers. Alternatively, press the dough into silicone molds for intricate shapes.

Coat each mint lightly in granulated sugar and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them air dry for a few hours to firm up before transferring them to an airtight container.

This recipe makes about 60 small mints, depending on the size you choose.

Storage Options

Cream Cheese Mints are as practical as they are pretty when it comes to storage. Properly stored, they’ll last for days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat.

Store them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. At room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for up to two days.

For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to two weeks while maintaining their creamy texture. Just let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

If you’d like to freeze them, arrange the mints in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container, again layering with parchment paper. They’ll last up to three months in the freezer.

To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. With a few tweaks, you can create endless variations to suit any taste or occasion.

Experiment with different extracts to change the flavor profile. Vanilla extract is a classic choice, while almond extract adds a nutty twist. You can even try lemon or orange extract for a citrusy kick.

Play with colors to match the season or theme. Pastels are perfect for spring, while red and green make a festive addition to any holiday table.

Shape them differently for added charm. Use small cookie cutters or silicone molds to create flowers, hearts, or seasonal shapes.

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative. Just note that the texture might vary slightly.

For a fun twist, roll the mints in crushed candies or sprinkles instead of granulated sugar. This adds a pop of color and extra texture to each bite.

No matter how you customize them, these Cream Cheese Mints are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Have fun experimenting and making them your own!