There's something magical about the melt-in-your-mouth texture of cream cheese mints. These delightful little treats are perfect for weddings, baby showers, holidays, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving. With their creamy base and subtle sweetness, they strike the perfect balance between elegance and comfort.

I discovered this recipe years ago while planning a friend's bridal shower, and it quickly became a staple in my dessert repertoire. Not only are these mints easy to make, but they're also incredibly versatile – perfect for customizing with colors and shapes to suit any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Simple Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for these classic cream cheese mints. They're more than just a treat – they're a nostalgic indulgence with a modern twist.

First, they're ridiculously simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch in under an hour. Perfect for those last-minute party preparations!

These mints are as customizable as they are delicious. Add a drop of food coloring to match your event’s theme or choose from a variety of molds to create fun shapes that will wow your guests.

Best of all, they're made with pantry staples like cream cheese, powdered sugar, and mint extract. That means no fancy ingredients, no fuss – just pure, sweet goodness.

These mints aren’t just pretty to look at; they’re also perfect for gifting. Package them in decorative tins or jars for an easy homemade gift that everyone will love.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these cream cheese mints lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient contributes to the smooth texture and refreshing flavor that makes these mints so irresistible.

Cream Cheese: This is the star of the show! Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and best flavor. Let it soften at room temperature before mixing for the smoothest results.

Powdered Sugar: This acts as the sweetener and thickener. Be sure to sift your powdered sugar to prevent lumps in your dough.

Mint Extract: This gives the mints their signature refreshing flavor. Peppermint extract is the classic choice, but spearmint or other flavorings work beautifully as well. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Food Coloring: Optional, but highly recommended if you're making these for a themed event. A small amount of gel food coloring works best for vibrant hues without altering the consistency.

Granulated Sugar: Used for rolling and coating the mints. It prevents sticking and gives them a subtle crunch on the outside.

Optional equipment includes silicone molds or a fork for creating patterns. These tools make it easy to add decorative touches, but the mints are just as charming when shaped by hand.

How To Make This Simple Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

Making these mints is as easy as 1-2-3! Here’s how to create your own batch of sweet, creamy perfection.

Start by creaming softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until it's smooth and lump-free. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for best results. Once the cream cheese is silky, gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Once the dough starts to come together, add mint extract and any desired food coloring. Mix until the color is evenly distributed and the dough has a soft, pliable consistency similar to playdough.

Take small portions of the dough and roll them into bite-sized balls. If you're using molds, press the dough firmly into the molds and gently release. For a classic look, roll the mints in granulated sugar and press them with a fork to create a crisscross pattern.

Let the mints air dry on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 12-24 hours. This step allows them to firm up while retaining their creamy texture inside.

Once dry, transfer the mints to an airtight container. They’re ready to serve or store for later!

Storage Options

Cream cheese mints are easy to store, making them perfect for make-ahead occasions.

To store at room temperature, keep the mints in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week. This is ideal for short-term use.

For longer storage, place the mints in a sealed container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks while maintaining their creamy texture.

If you want to plan well in advance, these mints freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months – just thaw at room temperature before serving.

To reheat, well, there’s no need – these are best served as they are!

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ways to put your own spin on cream cheese mints:

Swap out the mint extract for other flavors like vanilla, almond, or lemon to create a completely different taste profile.

Experiment with food coloring to match the theme of your event. Pastels work wonderfully for spring occasions, while deeper shades are perfect for holidays like Christmas or Valentine’s Day.

Add a touch of flair by sprinkling the mints with edible glitter or sugar pearls before they set. It’s a simple way to elevate them for fancier gatherings.

If you’re not a fan of mint, omit the extract altogether for a plain cream cheese flavor that’s equally delicious. You could even add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, cozy twist.

For a fun presentation, try shaping the mints into hearts, stars, or other shapes using silicone molds. It’s an easy way to make these mints look as impressive as they taste.

Whether you stick with the classic or experiment with variations, these cream cheese mints are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Happy mint-making!