Peppermint Dream Cream Cheese Mints
These delightful Peppermint Dream Cream Cheese Mints are a perfect blend of creamy texture and refreshing peppermint flavor. Originating from a cherished coworker's recipe, these mints are surprisingly enjoyable even for those who are not typically fans of mints. Crafted with real cream cheese and just the right amount of peppermint extract, these no-bake treats melt in your mouth. Use candy molds for added flair, or simply roll them into charming little balls. Whether for a festive occasion or a sweet after-meal treat, they’re sure to please everyone. Just remember, a touch of kneading and patience is all you need for a minty masterpiece you can easily freeze for later enjoyment.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cream cheese
1 (8 ounce package)
Powdered sugar
2 (pound package)
Peppermint extract
10-11 (drops (scant 1/4 tsp))
Food coloring
to taste (optional)
Granulated sugar
as needed (for rolling)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract. You may use dough hooks on your mixer to make the mixing easier.
2
Once mixed, the dough will feel somewhat dry; that’s normal. Remove the mixture from the bowl and knead it gently with your hands until it becomes smooth and workable.
3
If desired, add food coloring to the mixture, and knead until the desired color is achieved.
4
Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into small balls.
5
Roll the balls in granulated sugar to create a sweet coating.
6
If using candy molds, press the balls firmly into the molds, or alternatively, slightly flatten the balls for a different presentation.
7
Carefully remove from molds if using them.
8
Place the formed mints on a piece of wax paper and allow them to dry for at least 24 hours, turning them halfway through this drying period to ensure they dry evenly.
9
After 24 hours, if storing for longer than a couple of weeks, transfer the mints to an airtight container or freeze them.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Peppermint Dream Cream Cheese Mints?
They are a creamy, refreshing no-bake candy made with cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract that melt in your mouth.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
This recipe requires 5 ingredients: cream cheese, powdered sugar, peppermint extract, food coloring, and granulated sugar.
Is baking required for these mints?
No, these are no-bake treats that rely on a drying period rather than heat.
What size package of cream cheese should I use?
You should use one 8-ounce package of cream cheese.
How much powdered sugar is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for one 2-pound package of powdered sugar.
What is the suggested amount of peppermint extract?
You should use 10-11 drops, which is a scant 1/4 teaspoon.
Can I use a mixer to combine the ingredients?
Yes, you can use a mixer, and using dough hooks is specifically recommended to make the mixing process easier.
What should I do if the dough feels dry after mixing?
It is normal for the dough to feel dry at first; you should remove it from the bowl and knead it by hand until it becomes smooth.
Is food coloring required for this recipe?
No, food coloring is optional and can be added to taste to achieve your desired color.
How do I shape the cream cheese mints?
You can divide the dough into small portions and roll them into balls, or press them into candy molds for more decorative shapes.
Why is granulated sugar used in the recipe?
The mint balls are rolled in granulated sugar to provide a sweet coating and a bit of texture.
Do I need candy molds to make these?
No, candy molds are optional; you can simply roll the dough into balls or flatten them slightly.
How long do the mints need to dry?
The mints should dry for at least 24 hours to set properly.
Why is it important to turn the mints while drying?
Turning the mints halfway through the 24-hour drying period ensures that they dry evenly on all sides.
What surface should I dry the mints on?
The mints should be placed on a piece of wax paper during the drying process.
How should I store these mints?
Once dried, transfer them to an airtight container for storage.
Can I freeze Peppermint Dream Cream Cheese Mints?
Yes, these mints can be frozen if you plan to store them for longer than a couple of weeks.
Are these mints good for holiday occasions?
Yes, they are described as a perfect festive treat and holiday gift.
What is the texture of these mints?
They have a creamy texture that is designed to melt in your mouth.
Who provided the original recipe?
The recipe originated from a cherished coworker of the author.
Are these mints difficult to make?
No, they are considered easy and only require a bit of kneading and patience.
Can I make different flavors using this base?
While this recipe is for peppermint, you could technically swap the peppermint extract for other flavors if desired.
Is the peppermint flavor very strong?
The recipe uses 10-11 drops, which provides a refreshing flavor that even those who aren't typically fans of mints enjoy.
Can I prepare these mints in advance?
Yes, because they require 24 hours to dry and can be stored or frozen, they are excellent for advance preparation.
What equipment is best for mixing the heavy dough?
A mixer fitted with dough hooks is the most effective tool for handling the thick mixture of cream cheese and sugar.
Can I omit the sugar coating?
While the recipe suggests rolling them in granulated sugar, you can skip this if you prefer a smoother exterior.
Does the recipe specify a serving size?
The recipe does not provide a specific serving size as the yield depends on how small you roll the portions.
Are there any nutritional facts available?
No specific nutritional data like calories or fat content is provided in this raw recipe data.
What happens if I don't let them dry for 24 hours?
They may remain too soft and won't have the characteristic firm but melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Can children help with this recipe?
Yes, since it is a no-bake recipe and involves rolling dough into balls, it is a great activity for kids to help with.