EASY CHRISTMAS CREAM MINTS
These Easy Christmas Cream Mints are a festive and delightful treat that melts in your mouth. Made with cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract, they're incredibly simple to create and perfect for sharing during the holidays. Add a touch of holiday cheer to your dessert platter with these irresistible mints.
Equipment
- Electric mixer
- Large bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Small bowls (for dividing and coloring dough)
- Food coloring
- Cookie cutters (optional)
- Candy molds (optional)
- Parchment paper
- Baking Sheet
- Airtight container
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- Food coloring gel or liquid
- Sprinkles or edible glitter optional
- Powdered sugar, for dusting surface
Instructions
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes).
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, add the peppermint extract and mix until well combined.
- Divide the dough into separate bowls based on the number of colors you want to use.
- Add a few drops of food coloring to each bowl and mix well until the color is evenly distributed. Start with a small amount and add more until you achieve the desired shade.
- Shape the mints by rolling the dough out on a lightly powdered sugar-dusted surface to about 1/4-inch thickness and using cookie cutters to create festive shapes; or roll small pieces of dough into balls and flatten them slightly; or press the dough into candy molds to create intricate shapes.
- Decorate the shaped mints with sprinkles or edible glitter, if desired.
- Place the shaped mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
- Store the mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
For the best texture, ensure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened before mixing. Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can make the mints tough. If the dough is too soft, add a little more powdered sugar. If it's too dry, add a tiny bit of milk or water. Chilling the mints is crucial for firming them up and preventing them from spreading. Experiment with different extracts and food colorings to create unique flavor and color combinations, such as lemon, orange, cinnamon, or chocolate variations. These mints are best stored in the refrigerator to maintain their shape and texture.