Cream Cheese Mints: Easy, Old-Fashioned Treat That Melts in Your Mouth

Cream cheese mints are one of those delightful, old-fashioned candies that instantly bring back memories of family gatherings, baby showers, and holiday tables. Made with just a handful of ingredients, these melt-in-your-mouth morsels are sweet, creamy, and customizable for nearly any occasion. Whether you’re planning a rustic wedding, prepping for Christmas, or just want something simple yet impressive, these no-bake candies are a game changer.

Don’t miss our soft pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting if you’re into quick, creamy desserts that satisfy. Now, let’s explore what makes these nostalgic treats such a crowd-pleaser.

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What Are Cream Cheese Mints and Why Everyone Loves Them

A Classic Party Favorite

Cream cheese mints—also known as “wedding mints” or “baby shower mints”—have been a staple at special occasions for decades. These vintage-style candies are typically shaped into small discs or molded into creative designs like flowers, rattles, or hearts. What makes them so beloved is their simplicity. There’s no baking, no fancy equipment, and no tricky techniques—just a creamy, peppermint-kissed bite that feels elegant and indulgent.

Texture and Taste

Bite into one, and you’ll immediately notice the contrast—firm on the outside but soft and creamy inside. The taste is a perfect blend of sweet vanilla and cool peppermint, giving them a flavor profile that reminds many people of holiday frosting. If you’re looking for something easy but impressive to add to your dessert tray, this is it.

Ideal for Any Occasion

One of the best things about cream cheese mints is their versatility. You can tint the dough in soft pastel shades for Easter or baby showers, go bold for Christmas, or even shape them into seasonal icons using candy molds. These mints look adorable on platters and double as edible décor or party favors.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Homemade Cream Cheese Mints

Basic Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s keep it real—you probably already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen:

• Cream Cheese – Use brick-style only (not the whipped tub). This gives your mints the dense, creamy base they need.
• Salted Butter – Just one tablespoon adds depth and smooth texture.
• Powdered Sugar – The backbone of this recipe. You’ll use quite a bit to get that play-dough-like consistency.
• Peppermint Extract – Adds that refreshing mint flavor. Avoid general “mint” extract unless you like your mints tasting like toothpaste.
• Vanilla Extract – A subtle touch that rounds out the flavor.

Optional Additions

• Food Coloring – Liquid or gel, depending on how vibrant or soft you want the colors.
• Granulated Sugar – Only needed if you’re using silicone molds. Helps prevent sticking and gives a sparkly finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to swap something? No problem:

• Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cream cheese to make it vegan.
• Try almond or orange extract instead of peppermint for a unique twist.
• Powdered monk fruit sweetener can work as a low-carb alternative, though consistency may vary.

Want more creative uses for cream cheese in desserts? Check out these apple crisp mini cheesecakes for another irresistible idea.

How to Make Cream Cheese Mints Step by Step

Preparing the Dough

First things first—bring your cream cheese and butter to room temperature for easier mixing. In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat them until smooth and creamy. Start adding powdered sugar two cups at a time. Once incorporated, mix in the peppermint and vanilla extracts to ensure they spread evenly through the dough.

Continue adding the remaining powdered sugar gradually. The mixture should get very stiff—if it’s still sticky, keep adding sugar. You’re aiming for a dough that feels like play-dough and holds its shape easily.

Coloring and Shaping

If you’re using just one color, feel free to mix it in using your electric mixer. Want more variety? Divide the dough into bowls and stir in different colors by hand. Once colored, roll the dough into teaspoon-sized balls and place them on a wax-paper-lined sheet. Dip a fork in powdered sugar and press down gently on each ball to flatten it into a disc and create that iconic design.

Looking for inspiration? Try The Ultimate Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies to get ideas for festive cookie trays.

Using Molds for Custom Shapes

For fancier events, candy molds are a hit. Take a bit of dough, roll it in granulated sugar, and press it into a silicone mold. Invert and pop out your shaped mint. It’s that easy. These molded mints are perfect for personalized party favors or colorful dessert platters.

For a seasonal twist, discover how to make peppermint marshmallow fudge—a perfect companion to these mints during the holidays.

Storage Tips and Shelf Life for Cream Cheese Mints

Room Temperature Drying

After shaping your mints, resist the urge to refrigerate them immediately. Let them dry at room temperature for several hours, uncovered, until they feel firm to the touch. This step ensures the exterior sets properly, keeping them from turning sticky or collapsing during storage. Skipping this stage leads to gummy, overly soft mints.

Fridge or Freezer?

Once dried, store your mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To prevent sticking, place wax paper between layers. These candies absorb odors easily, so keep them away from strong-smelling items like onions or garlic.

Want to store them longer? Good news—cream cheese mints freeze beautifully. Just flash-freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll last for 2 to 3 months, making them perfect for holiday prep or wedding planning.

Looking for inspiration? Try freezing these cream cheese-filled banana bread squares for another make-ahead dessert idea.

Make-Ahead and Batch Tips

Making a big batch for a party? You can easily double or triple the recipe. Just make sure your mixer can handle the volume, or mix in batches. Shape and dry them, then refrigerate or freeze as needed. These candies are perfect for planning ahead without last-minute stress.

Creative Variations and Flavor Swaps

Beyond Peppermint: Flavor Ideas

While peppermint is classic, there’s plenty of room to get creative with your extracts. Here are some fun alternatives to mix things up:

• Almond – for a marzipan-like flavor
• Lemon – fresh and bright for spring or summer
• Maple – perfect for fall
• Coconut – tropical and fun for luau themes

You can even fold in mini chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, or sprinkles to make each bite unique.

Themed Colors for Holidays

Color adds visual appeal—especially when you’re hosting themed events:

• Pink and blue for baby showers
• Green and red for Christmas
• Lavender and yellow for Easter
• Gold and silver for weddings or New Year’s

Liquid food coloring gives softer pastel tones, while gel delivers vivid pops of color.

Add-Ons and Decorations

Want to take your cream cheese mints to the next level? Try:

• Dusting them with edible glitter
• Rolling in colored sanding sugar
• Adding sprinkles before they dry

Small touches go a long way when presentation counts. For another party-ready dessert, check out these salted caramel apple pie bars that look just as good as they taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cream Cheese Mints

Choosing the Wrong Cream Cheese

This is the #1 mistake: do NOT use spreadable cream cheese from a tub. Always use brick-style cream cheese. The tub version is too soft and contains added moisture, which will ruin your texture and make the mints too sticky.

Overmixing or Undermixing

Overmixing can lead to a tough, overworked dough, while undermixing may result in uneven flavor distribution. Stop once the dough is stiff but smooth. Make sure to scrape the bowl often to incorporate everything evenly—especially the mint extract.

Skipping the Drying Time

Skipping that crucial few hours of air-drying means sticky, unstable mints. They won’t hold their shape, and they may stick to one another during storage. Always let them sit at room temp before moving to the fridge or freezer.

FAQs About Cream Cheese Mints

Final Thoughts: Why Cream Cheese Mints Deserve a Spot on Your Dessert Table

Cream cheese mints aren’t just candies—they’re conversation starters, party-ready treats, and memory makers. With their creamy texture, vibrant colors, and refreshing flavor, they fit perfectly on any dessert tray, from baby showers to holiday spreads. Best of all? You don’t need baking skills or special tools—just a few pantry staples and a mixer.

Looking for inspiration? Try these soft pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting for another crowd-pleasing classic you can whip up fast.

Now that you know how easy these mints are, there’s no excuse not to try them. Your next party (or snack craving) just got sweeter.

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