Irresistible Christmas Cream Cheese Mints: Your Perfect Holiday Treat

As the festive season twinkles with joy and warmth, there’s nothing quite like a homemade treat to make holiday gatherings even more special. These cream cheese mints are an absolute favorite, effortlessly capturing the spirit of Christmas with their vibrant colors and refreshing peppermint flavor. Imagine a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth confection that elegantly concludes a hearty holiday dinner, leaving everyone delighted. Crafted from just a few simple ingredients—cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and a hint of peppermint extract—these delightful morsels are not only incredibly easy to make but also perfectly sweet and utterly irresistible.

I love coloring half of mine with a festive red food coloring and the other half with a vibrant green, then using a star piping tip to create adorable, holiday-themed shapes. They always turn out incredibly cute and are guaranteed to be a huge hit at any Christmas party or family feast. These homemade peppermint mints are more than just a dessert; they are a charming edible decoration and a delightful token of holiday cheer. Whether you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dessert, a charming gift, or just a sweet bite to enjoy yourself, this recipe is a must-try for your holiday baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

This Christmas cream cheese mints recipe is destined to become a staple in your holiday baking traditions. There are so many reasons to adore these little wonders, from their delightful flavor to their impressive presentation. First and foremost, their texture is simply divine; they truly melt in your mouth, offering a creamy, smooth sensation that is utterly addictive. The balance of sweetness is spot-on, making them a perfect palate cleanser after a rich meal or a lovely complement to a cup of coffee or tea.

Beyond their incredible taste, these mints are incredibly versatile. While I particularly cherish them during Christmastime—thanks to the festive red and green colors—they are wonderful to enjoy any time of year. You can easily adapt the colors and flavors to suit any occasion, from pastel shades for Easter to vibrant hues for a summer party. They also make fantastic edible gifts. Pack them in a beautiful box or bag, tie with a ribbon, and you have a thoughtful, homemade present that friends, family, and neighbors will cherish. The joy of creating these charming treats is matched only by the pleasure of sharing them.

Moreover, the simplicity of this recipe is a major draw. With just a handful of common ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve impressive results. There’s no complex baking involved, just mixing, piping, and a bit of patience for them to dry. This makes them an ideal project for busy holiday schedules, allowing you to whip up a batch without feeling overwhelmed. They’re a stress-free dessert that delivers maximum impact, making your holiday preparations just a little bit sweeter and a whole lot easier.

The Simple Magic: Just 5 Ingredients for Irresistible Cream Cheese Mints

The beauty of these delightful cream cheese mints lies in their incredibly short and accessible ingredient list. You only need five basic components to create these melt-in-your-mouth confections, making them a fantastic last-minute treat or a simple project for any day. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor that makes these mints so beloved.

• Powdered Sugar: The Sweet Foundation
  Powdered sugar, also known as confectioners’ sugar, is the primary sweetener and the key to the mints’ smooth, fine texture. Unlike granulated sugar, its fine consistency dissolves effortlessly, creating a non-gritty base that contributes to that signature melt-in-your-mouth feel. You’ll need a generous amount to achieve the right consistency for piping.
• Cream Cheese: The Silky Base
  Full-fat cream cheese is essential here. It provides the characteristic tangy creaminess and rich body that sets these mints apart from traditional sugar mints. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending, which will ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture. This is what gives the mints their unique, luxurious mouthfeel.
• Unsalted Butter: For Richness and Texture
  Room temperature unsalted butter adds richness, a delicate flavor, and helps bind the ingredients together, contributing to the mints’ overall softness and structure. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content in the recipe, though a tiny pinch of salt can actually enhance the sweetness if desired.
• Peppermint Extract: The Refreshing Kick
  This is where the “mint” in cream cheese mints comes from! Peppermint extract provides that signature cool, refreshing flavor. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to your personal taste. You can always add a little more, but you can’t take it away! Be sure to use a high-quality extract for the best flavor.
• Red and Green Food Coloring: For Festive Flair
  While optional, red and green food coloring transforms these delicious mints into festive Christmas treats. Gel food coloring is often preferred as it provides vibrant colors without adding too much liquid to the mixture, which can alter the consistency. You can also experiment with other colors for different occasions throughout the year.

Crafting Your Festive Mints: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making these cream cheese mints is a simple and enjoyable process, perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Follow these detailed steps to create beautiful and delicious peppermint candies that everyone will adore.

Getting Started: The Essential Ingredients for Perfect Mints

Before you begin, ensure all your cold ingredients, specifically the cream cheese and butter, are at room temperature. This is critical for achieving a smooth, well-combined mixture free of lumps. Gather your powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and your chosen food colorings (red and green for Christmas!). Prepare a few baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper; this will prevent sticking and make for easy drying and cleanup.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cream Cheese Mints

1. Creaming the Foundation:

   In the bowl of a stand mixer, fitted with the paddle attachment, combine 4 cups of powdered sugar, 6 ounces (about ¾ of a standard brick) of softened cream cheese, 4 tablespoons (½ stick) of room-temperature unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Begin mixing on a low speed to incorporate the powdered sugar without it flying everywhere, then increase to medium speed. Beat the mixture for approximately 3 minutes, or until it is completely smooth, light, and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is thoroughly combined. The mixture should be thick and pliable, similar to a stiff frosting.

   

2. Adding the Festive Touch:

   Prepare a piping bag by fitting it with your preferred star tip (a Wilton 1M or similar open star tip works beautifully for classic swirls). To create the festive striped effect, use a toothpick or the handle of a small spoon to gently draw three distinct lines of red or green gel food coloring inside the piping bag. These lines should run vertically down the length of the bag, from the tip towards the opening, rather than horizontally. This technique ensures that as you pipe, the color streaks through the white mint mixture, creating a lovely two-tone effect. Once the lines are drawn, carefully fill the piping bag approximately three-quarters full with your prepared cream cheese mint mixture.

   

3. Piping Perfection:

   Hold the filled piping bag at a 90-degree angle directly above your parchment-lined baking sheet. Apply even pressure and pipe small swirls, rosettes, or desired shapes onto the parchment paper. Be sure to leave a small space between each mint, as they will need air circulation to dry properly. Don’t worry if your first few aren’t perfect; practice makes perfect, and they’ll all taste delicious! You can make them as large or as small as you prefer. Continue piping until all the cream cheese mint mixture is used up.

   

4. The Crucial Drying Process:

   Once all your festive mints are piped, the most important step is to let them dry completely. Leave the mints uncovered, at room temperature, in an area with good air circulation. This process allows the surface of the mints to harden and form a delicate crust, preventing them from sticking together when stored. This drying phase is crucial for their long-term stability and texture. It typically takes a full 24 hours for the mints to set completely, so plan accordingly. Do not rush this step, as it impacts the final quality and shelf life of your beautiful homemade peppermint mints.

Pro Tips for Cream Cheese Mint Success

Achieving perfect cream cheese mints every time is easy with a few helpful tips. These insights will ensure your mints are beautifully textured, wonderfully flavorful, and a true highlight of your holiday spread.

• Softening Cream Cheese Quickly: Room temperature cream cheese and butter are non-negotiable for a smooth, lump-free mixture. If you forgot to take them out ahead of time, you can quickly soften cream cheese by unwrapping it and placing it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on low power (or use your microwave’s “soften” setting) for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently. Be careful not to overheat it, as melted cream cheese will not incorporate properly. For butter, you can cut it into small pieces and let it sit for 15-20 minutes, or gently microwave for 5-10 seconds.
• Creative Decorating Ideas: While the striped food coloring method is festive, don’t stop there! Feel free to add a sprinkle of nonpareils, edible glitter, or small sugar pearls to your freshly piped mints for an extra touch of sparkle and holiday cheer. You can also press them into decorative candy molds instead of piping for different shapes. Just dust the molds lightly with powdered sugar first to prevent sticking.
• Piping Bag Alternatives: No star tip or piping bag on hand? No problem! You can use a sturdy plastic ziploc bag by snipping a small corner off the bottom for a simple round tip. Alternatively, you can roll the mint mixture into small balls and flatten them slightly, or press them into powdered sugar-dusted molds as mentioned above. They might not have the same intricate swirl, but they’ll taste just as delicious.
• Ensuring Complete Drying: The 24-hour drying time at room temperature is crucial for the mints to develop a slight crust and prevent them from becoming sticky when stacked. If your home is particularly humid, it might take a little longer. Ensure they are in a single layer on parchment paper and in an area with good air circulation. Don’t cover them during this drying period. Test one by gently touching it; if it feels firm and non-tacky, they are ready for storage.
• Flavor Variations: Peppermint is classic for Christmas, but these mints can be customized! Try replacing peppermint extract with vanilla extract, almond extract, lemon extract, or even a combination for different flavor profiles. A touch of orange zest or a hint of cinnamon can also add a unique twist, transforming them for other seasons or preferences.

Storing Your Homemade Peppermint Mints

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness, flavor, and delightful texture of your homemade cream cheese mints. Once your mints have completely dried for 24 hours at room temperature, they are ready to be stored, ensuring they remain a delicious treat for days to come.

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these Christmas cream cheese mints will last for up to 2 weeks. The airtight container is important to prevent them from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge and to keep them from drying out too much or becoming too moist. You can stack them gently in layers, separating each layer with a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Allow them to come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience, as they will be quite firm when cold.

For longer storage, cream cheese mints can also be frozen. Arrange the dried mints in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the mints in the refrigerator overnight, then bring them to room temperature before serving. Freezing is a fantastic option for making large batches ahead of time, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand for unexpected guests or future holiday cravings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cream Cheese Mints

Q: Can I make these mints ahead of time for a party?

A: Absolutely! These cream cheese mints are an excellent make-ahead treat. Once fully dried, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or frozen for up to two to three months. This makes them perfect for busy holiday planning.

Q: What if my mints are too sticky after drying?

A: If your mints remain sticky, it’s usually an indication that they haven’t dried long enough or that the humidity in your environment is high. Ensure they have adequate air circulation and extend the drying time for another 12-24 hours. You can also lightly dust them with a little extra powdered sugar before storing.

Q: Can I use different flavors instead of peppermint?

A: Yes! The versatility of this recipe allows for various flavor adaptations. You can swap peppermint extract for vanilla, almond, lemon, or even a combination of extracts to create unique mints for different occasions or personal preferences.

Q: My cream cheese mixture is too soft to pipe. What should I do?

A: If your mixture is too soft, it might be due to overly softened cream cheese and butter or not enough powdered sugar. Try chilling the mixture in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to firm it up. If it’s still too soft, gradually beat in a tablespoon or two more powdered sugar until it reaches a pipable consistency.

Q: How many mints does this recipe yield?

A: This recipe makes approximately 6 cups of mints, which translates to a good number of individual mints depending on their size. It’s usually enough to serve a party or to have plenty for gifting.

Q: Do I have to use a stand mixer?

A: While a stand mixer with a paddle attachment makes the process very easy and ensures a smooth consistency, you can use a hand mixer. Just be sure to beat the ingredients thoroughly until completely smooth and free of lumps, scraping down the bowl as needed.

A Sweet Tradition: Why These Mints Are a Holiday Favorite

There’s a special magic that cream cheese mints bring to the holiday season. They are more than just a sweet treat; they are a delightful embodiment of festive cheer and homemade warmth. Their vibrant colors instantly evoke the joy of Christmas, making them a perfect addition to any dessert platter, holiday buffet, or even as charming decorations on your table. These mints truly capture the essence of holiday baking – simple, joyful, and incredibly rewarding.

Beyond their visual appeal, the melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing peppermint flavor create a memorable culinary experience. They provide a light and refreshing end to a sumptuous holiday meal, ensuring your guests leave with a sweet lingering taste. Whether you’re making them for family, friends, or as a thoughtful gift, these cream cheese mints carry with them the love and care put into their creation. They have a way of sparking conversation, bringing smiles, and becoming a cherished part of your annual traditions. So this holiday season, embrace the simple pleasure of making these delightful mints and share the sweetness with those you love. They are sure to become a beloved tradition in your home for years to come.

5 from 3 votes

Christmas Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

Prepare the perfect after-dinner treat with this recipe for Christmas cream cheese mints. They melt in your mouth and are irresistibly good.

Prep:
20 minutes

Total Time:
1 day 20 minutes

Dry Time:
1 day

Servings:
12 people

Print

Ingredients

• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 6 ounces cream cheese room temperature (¾ brick)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature (½ stick)
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Red and green food coloring

Equipment

• Kitchen Scale (optional)
• Stand Mixer
• Piping Tip Set

Instructions

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the powdered sugar, cream cheese, butter, and peppermint extract together until completely smooth, about 3 minutes.
   4 cups powdered sugar,
   6 ounces cream cheese,
   4 tablespoons unsalted butter,
   1 teaspoon peppermint extract
   
2. In a piping bag fitted with a star tip, use the handle of a spoon or a toothpick to place 3 lines of red or green food coloring in the piping bag. The lines should be up and down the length of the bag and not sideways.
   Red and green food coloring
3. Fill the bag ¾ full with the cream cheese mint mixture.
   
4. Place a piece of parchment paper on the counter. Hold the piping bag at a 90-degree angle above the parchment paper. Pipe little swirls onto the parchment, making sure none of them touch, until all of the mint mixture is used.
   
5. These mints can be as large or as small as you would like. Once all of the mints are piped, let set for 24 hours at room temperature to dry completely before storing.

Notes

Yield: This recipe makes approx. 6 cups of mints.

Storage: Store Christmas cream cheese mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition Facts

Christmas Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

Amount Per Serving (0.5 cup)

Calories 240
Calories from Fat 81

% Daily Value*

Fat 9g14%

Saturated Fat 5g31%

Trans Fat 1g

Polyunsaturated Fat 1g

Monounsaturated Fat 2g

Cholesterol 24mg8%

Sodium 46mg2%

Potassium 21mg1%

Carbohydrates 41g14%

Sugar 40g44%

Protein 1g2%

Vitamin A 307IU6%

Calcium 15mg2%

Iron 1mg6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Author:
Becky Hardin

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