Ingredients
Cream Cheese Mint Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (full fat)
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 8 cups powdered sugar (about 2 lb), plus more for pressing
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (or to taste)
- Gel food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese and butter: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle or flat beater attachment, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add sugar and flavoring: With the mixer running, add the salt, then 2 cups of powdered sugar. Beat on medium-low speed until fully incorporated. Next, add peppermint extract followed by the remaining powdered sugar a heaping tablespoon at a time, mixing well between additions. Continue mixing until the dough is well blended and smooth, scraping down the bowl as needed.
- Color the dough (optional): If you wish to color your mints, divide the dough into separate bowls for each color. Stir in gel food coloring a drop at a time to achieve your desired shade, starting with a small amount for pastel colors.
- Shape the mints: Working with about a quarter of the dough at a time, roll it into small balls approximately 1 teaspoon in size or use a small cookie scoop. Roll the dough until seams disappear to prevent cracking. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Press mints: Keep remaining dough covered to prevent drying out. Dip a fork in powdered sugar to prevent sticking and gently press over each ball to flatten the mints evenly. Repeat shaping and pressing with all dough batches.
- Dry and store: Let the mints dry and rest at room temperature for at least 2 hours. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a month or freeze for up to 6 months for longer storage.
Notes
- For best texture, ensure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened before mixing.
- Using a stand mixer helps achieve a smooth, consistent dough but mixing by hand with a sturdy spoon can work if necessary.
- Gel food coloring is preferred as it won’t affect dough consistency like liquid food coloring.
- Pressing the mints with a powdered sugar-dusted fork prevents sticking and gives a classic peppermint candy look.
- Allowing the mints to rest lets them firm up, improving texture and handling.
- Store mints in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
