Description
These creamy homemade cream cheese mints are a delightful and easy-to-make treat perfect for gift-giving or serving at gatherings. Softened cream cheese is blended with powdered sugar and refreshing mint extract, then shaped into bite-sized mints and chilled until firm. Optional food coloring and a dusting of granulated sugar add visual appeal and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened to room temperature)
- 2-4 cups Powdered Sugar (Adjust based on desired sweetness and consistency)
- 1-2 tsp Mint Extract (Start with 1 tsp and adjust to taste)
- A few drops Food Coloring (Optional, for visual appeal)
- 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar (For rolling the mints)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients and Workspace: Gather all ingredients and ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Beat Cream Cheese: Use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, starting with 2 cups, mixing on low speed until fully combined and the mixture becomes a dough-like consistency.
- Mix in Mint Extract: Add 1 teaspoon of mint extract, mixing well. Taste and adjust by adding up to 2 teaspoons if desired for a stronger mint flavor.
- Add Food Coloring (Optional): If you want colored mints, add a few drops of food coloring and fold it into the mixture evenly.
- Shape Mints: Dust your hands with some powdered sugar to prevent sticking, then roll small portions of the mixture into bite-sized balls.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled mints spaced apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Coat with Granulated Sugar: Optionally, roll each mint ball in granulated sugar to add texture and extra sweetness.
- Chill Mints: Refrigerate the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes, or until the mints are firm and set.
- Serve or Package: Serve the mints in a decorative bowl or package them attractively as gifts.
- Store Leftovers: Keep any leftover mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to one week.
Notes
- Adjust the powdered sugar quantity based on your desired mint sweetness and consistency.
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to ensure smooth mixing.
- Optional food coloring adds a festive touch but can be omitted for plain white mints.
- Rolling mints in granulated sugar is optional but gives a nice texture contrast.
- Store mints refrigerated in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
