Cream Cheese Mints Recipe – American Special
Indulge in classic cream cheese mints, also known as wedding mints, featuring a soft, creamy interior and pastel-hued exterior. Their playful play-dough texture makes them easy to shape into disks or molded designs, and the minty sweetness makes them an ideal make-ahead candy for bridal showers, holidays, or thoughtful homemade gifts.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time10 min
- Total Time20 min
Cream Cheese Mints Recipe Ingredients:
- 8 oz package of Challenge cream cheese, full fat, softened
- 1/4 cup Challenge butter, softened
- 2 lbs powdered sugar
- 1 – 2 tsp mint extract
- gel food coloring
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar for rolling mints
How to Make Cream Cheese Mints Recipe:
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter, mixing until smooth.
Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
Stir in mint extract until well combined.
Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar, mixing until the mixture is smooth and consistent. You can use a stand mixer, food processor, or mix by hand.
Divide the mixture into four bowls (or as many as needed for different colors).
Add a small amount of gel food coloring to each bowl and stir until the color is evenly distributed.
Cover the bowls and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the mixture is firm enough to handle without sticking.
Line 2 quarter sheet pans with parchment paper and dust liberally with powdered sugar.
Pinch off small amounts of dough and roll into 1-inch balls.
Roll each ball in powdered sugar and place on the prepared sheet pans.
Use the tines of a fork to gently press into the top of each ball to create a pattern (alternatively, use the bottom of a powdered sugar-dusted shot glass).
Let the mints stand uncovered for at least 4 hours, or until firm. If there is moisture on the bottoms, flip them over until firm.
Store the mints in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment or waxed paper, at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Mints can also be refrigerated or frozen if desired.
Recipe Notes:
Texture Balance: Aim for a smooth, pliable dough. If it’s too sticky, gradually add more powdered sugar; if too stiff, soften with a few drops of cream.
Flavor Variation: While peppermint is traditional, you can experiment with vanilla, almond, or lemon extract for unique flavor options.
Coloring Tips: Divide dough into portions and knead in gel or liquid food coloring for soft pastel tones—gels offer more vibrant hues in small amounts.
Storage Advice: Let mints air-dry for a few hours until they firm up, then store in an airtight container lined with wax or parchment paper. They keep well at room temperature for up to 2 weeks—or refrigerated for longer.
