There's something so delightful about a sweet treat that melts in your mouth, and cream cheese mints are just that. Perfectly creamy, subtly sweet, and lightly flavored, these mints are a nostalgic classic that feel just right for weddings, baby showers, or holiday celebrations.

I first encountered cream cheese mints at a family reunion years ago, where they were shaped into cute little hearts and pastel roses. I was instantly hooked! With just a handful of ingredients and a little creativity, this recipe is now my go-to for any special occasion.

Let’s dive into the details so you can make your own batch of these irresistible mints!

Why You'll Love This Simple Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this simple, elegant confection. Cream cheese mints are a little sweet, a little creamy, and incredibly satisfying.

First, they’re so easy to make. With only four main ingredients, this recipe comes together in minutes – no baking required!

Second, they’re completely customizable. From flavors like peppermint or almond to colors that match any theme, you can make these mints truly your own.

These mints also store wonderfully, meaning you can prepare them ahead of time for parties, gifts, or simply to enjoy over the week.

Finally, their melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate sweetness make them universally loved. Even those who aren’t big on sweets will find these hard to resist!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Just four ingredients come together to create magic!

Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest, richest mints. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
Powdered Sugar: This is the base for your mints. Sift the powdered sugar to ensure smoothness in the final product.
Flavoring: Peppermint extract is traditional, but feel free to experiment with almond, vanilla, or even citrus extracts for something different.
Food Coloring: Gel or paste food coloring works best here, giving vibrant colors without altering the consistency of the dough.

Special equipment isn’t a must, but silicone molds or cookie cutters can take your presentation to the next level.

How To Make Simple Cream Cheese Mints

Making cream cheese mints is as simple as mix, shape, and chill. Let me walk you through the process:

Mix the Base Dough
Start by beating 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in 3 ½ to 4 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until a pliable dough forms. Add more powdered sugar if needed – the dough should be soft but not sticky.
Add Flavor and Color
Stir in ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract (or your preferred flavoring). If you’re using multiple colors, divide the dough and knead in a few drops of food coloring to each portion until the color is evenly distributed.
Shape the Mints
Roll the dough into small balls, about the size of a marble, and flatten them slightly with a fork for a classic look. Alternatively, press the dough into silicone molds or shape it with cookie cutters for more intricate designs.
Chill and Set
Place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Once set, they’re ready to enjoy!

These mints can also be frozen for up to 3 months, making them an excellent make-ahead treat.

Storage Options

Storing cream cheese mints is as easy as making them. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Refrigerator: Store the mints in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Keep parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mints in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

Avoid leaving the mints at room temperature for extended periods, as their cream cheese base makes them perishable.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun ways to mix it up:

Flavor Swaps: Try almond, vanilla, or lemon extract for a twist on the classic peppermint flavor.
Color Combos: Use multiple colors to create marble effects or ombré shades that stand out.
Dipped in Chocolate: Add an extra layer of indulgence by dipping your mints in melted chocolate and letting them set.
Decorative Shapes: Use molds or cutters for themed designs that fit any occasion.

Feel free to experiment – no matter the variation, these mints are sure to be a hit!

Now that you’ve got the recipe and all the tips, it’s time to whip up a batch of these sweet little bites. Whether you're celebrating something special or just craving a treat, cream cheese mints are always a good idea!