Christmas Cream Cheese Mints have been a cherished part of my holiday traditions since I was a little girl. I remember the way my grandmother’s kitchen would fill with the sweet, cool scent of peppermint as she whipped up batches of these delightful little candies. They were always the first treat to disappear from the holiday dessert table, a testament to their perfect balance of creamy texture and refreshing mint flavor. These beautiful, no-bake delights are more than just a treat; they’re a little piece of holiday magic. If you’re looking for an easy Christmas cream cheese mint recipe that will impress everyone, you’ve found it! Get ready to make some unforgettable Christmas cream cheese candies. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cream Cheese Mints
These aren’t just any holiday sweets; they’re a delightful experience! Here’s why this Christmas cream cheese mints recipe deserves a spot on your festive table:
- Amazing Taste: Experience a wonderfully creamy texture with a refreshing burst of mint that melts in your mouth.
- Super Quick Prep: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up even on the busiest holiday days.
- Budget-Friendly Fun: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, these mints are a cost-effective way to add elegance to your spread.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore these sweet treats, making them perfect for everyone at your holiday parties.
- Festive Presentation: The optional sprinkles and pretty colors make these a visually stunning festive cream cheese mints recipe addition.
- Healthier Alternative: As a no-bake option, they skip the oven heat and can be a lighter choice compared to some traditional cookies.
- Versatile Treat: They’re the perfect little bite to enjoy with coffee or tea.
Ingredients for Easy Christmas Cream Cheese Mints
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious homemade cream cheese mints for Christmas. They’re surprisingly straightforward and come together quickly!
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened – This is the base for our creamy mints, so make sure it’s nice and soft for easy blending.
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar, plus more for rolling – Powdered sugar gives these mints their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweetness. We’ll also use extra for dusting.
- 1 teaspoon Mint Extract – The star flavor! Use a good quality mint extract for that classic, refreshing taste.
- 2 tablespoons Milk – A little milk helps achieve the perfect dough consistency.
- 1 cup Holiday Sprinkles (optional) – Add these for a festive pop of color and sparkle!
- Granulated Sugar (for rolling) – This adds a lovely subtle crunch and extra visual appeal to your finished mints.
How to Make Christmas Cream Cheese Mints
Making these delightful Christmas cream cheese candies is a joy, and the process is quite straightforward. Follow these steps to create these festive treats that will disappear in a flash at your holiday parties.
- Step 1: Start by ensuring your 8 ounces of cream cheese are properly softened. This is crucial for a smooth mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the 1 teaspoon of mint extract. Use a hand mixer on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is creamy and well combined. You’ll notice a lovely minty aroma starting to fill the air.
- Step 2: Gradually add the 2 cups of powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud. Once most of the sugar is incorporated, add the 2 tablespoons of milk. Increase the mixer speed to medium and blend for another 2-3 minutes until the dough is smooth and has a consistency similar to thick frosting.
- Step 3: Now, it’s time to add the extra sweetness and festive flair! Fold in the additional 1 cup of powdered sugar and the optional 1 cup of holiday sprinkles. Mix until just combined. The dough should start to resemble a workable, slightly sticky confection, perfect for shaping.
- Step 4: Lightly dust a clean work surface with a bit of extra powdered sugar. Transfer the dough onto the surface and knead it gently for about 3-4 minutes. The goal here is to achieve a consistent texture that is no longer sticky but still pliable. This step is key to mastering how to make Christmas cream cheese mints.
- Step 5: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough at a time and roll it into smooth balls, aiming for a diameter of about ¾ inch. In a small bowl, mix some granulated sugar with a few extra sprinkles. Roll each dough ball in this sugar-sprinkle mixture until evenly coated, giving them a delightful sparkle and crunch.
- Step 6: Arrange the shaped mints on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Cover the baking sheet loosely with plastic wrap. Refrigerate these little gems for at least 30 minutes to firm them up.
- Step 7: Once chilled, remove the mints from the refrigerator. Gently flatten the top of each mint with the back of a fork to give them that classic, charming appearance. Continue with the rest of your batch. These are now ready for storage or serving!
Pro Tips for the Best Christmas Cream Cheese Mints
Elevate your holiday confections with these insider tips for making the most delightful Christmas cream cheese candies. A few simple tricks can make all the difference!
- Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened, not just slightly cool. This prevents lumps and ensures a silky smooth dough.
- Don’t overmix the dough once the powdered sugar is added, or your mints might become tough instead of tender.
- If the dough feels too sticky, don’t be afraid to add a little more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable.
- For vibrant colors, use gel food coloring sparingly. A little goes a long way and won’t affect the dough’s consistency.
What’s the secret to perfect Christmas cream cheese mints?
The secret lies in the balance of ingredients and proper technique. Soaking the breadcrumbs or using just enough milk to bind the ingredients, along with not overmixing, creates the perfect tender texture reminiscent of traditional Christmas cream cheese mints. For more insights into baking techniques, you can explore resources on baking fundamentals.
Can I make Christmas cream cheese mints ahead of time?
Absolutely! These holiday mints using cream cheese are fantastic for meal prep. You can make the dough a day or two in advance and store it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before shaping. This is a great way to save time, similar to how one might prepare other holiday desserts in advance.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas cream cheese mints?
A common pitfall is using un-softened cream cheese, leading to a lumpy texture. Another mistake is overworking the dough, which makes the mints tough. Lastly, ensure you chill the shaped mints sufficiently so they hold their form when flattened. Understanding ingredient properties is key, much like when learning about food science basics.
Best Ways to Serve Christmas Cream Cheese Mints
These delightful confections are incredibly versatile and add a touch of festive charm to any holiday occasion. They’re perfect as a sweet ending to your Christmas dinner or as a charming addition to a cookie platter. Imagine serving these alongside a warm mug of spiced cider or rich hot chocolate – the cool minty flavor is wonderfully refreshing!
Consider them as elegant Christmas peppermint cream cheese bites to accompany your coffee during a festive brunch. They also make a lovely, light alternative to heavier Christmas cookies, offering a palate-cleansing sweetness that guests will adore. Their small size makes them ideal for a dessert buffet or as a sweet favor for your holiday party guests. For more ideas on festive gatherings, check out these tips for hosting holiday parties.
Nutrition Facts for Christmas Cream Cheese Mints
Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for these delightful Christmas cream cheese candies, per serving (which is about one mint):
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Protein: (negligible)
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: (negligible)
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Cholesterol: 8mg
Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients and quantities you use in your easy Christmas cream cheese mint recipe. For more detailed nutritional information, consult a registered dietitian or a reliable nutrition database.
How to Store and Reheat Christmas Cream Cheese Mints
Properly storing your beautiful Christmas cream cheese mints ensures they stay fresh and delicious for your guests. Once you’ve finished shaping and chilling them, allow them to come to room temperature slightly before storing. For short-term enjoyment, place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper if needed. These delightful holiday mints using cream cheese will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
If you’re planning ahead or want to save some of these festive treats for later, they freeze wonderfully! Arrange the mints in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, with parchment paper between layers, and freeze for up to 3 months. There’s no need to reheat them; simply transfer the frozen mints to the refrigerator overnight to thaw gently. Enjoy your perfectly preserved Christmas cream cheese candies!
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Cream Cheese Mints
What are Christmas cream cheese mints?
Christmas cream cheese mints are small, sweet confections made primarily from cream cheese, powdered sugar, and mint extract. They are known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing minty flavor. Often decorated with festive colors and sprinkles, they’re a popular, no-bake treat during the holiday season, offering a lighter alternative to traditional cookies.
Why are cream cheese mints popular at Christmas?
Their popularity at Christmas stems from several factors. They are incredibly easy to make, require no baking, and can be customized with festive colors and shapes, making them a perfect activity for families. The cool, refreshing mint flavor also complements the richness of other holiday foods. Plus, these delightful Christmas cream cheese candies offer a nostalgic, old-fashioned charm that resonates with many during the holidays.
Can I make Christmas cream cheese mints with different flavors?
Absolutely! While mint is classic, you can easily swap the mint extract for other flavorings like peppermint, almond, or even a touch of citrus extract. For a truly festive twist, consider adding a hint of cinnamon or ginger for a spicy kick, making them unique holiday cream cheese candy recipes.
How do I get my Christmas cream cheese mints to hold their shape?
The key to perfectly shaped mints is proper chilling. After shaping, ensure they rest on parchment paper in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before you flatten them with a fork. If your dough is too sticky, add a little more powdered sugar until it’s manageable. This ensures your homemade cream cheese mints for Christmas look as good as they taste.
Variations of Christmas Cream Cheese Mints You Can Try
While the classic mint flavor is divine, don’t be afraid to get creative with these delightful Christmas cream cheese candies! These variations offer exciting twists on the traditional recipe, ensuring there’s a perfect sweet cream cheese candy for Christmas for everyone.
- Flavor Adventures: Swap the mint extract for other popular extracts. Almond extract creates a sophisticated flavor, while a touch of peppermint extract offers a more intense minty experience. For a warm, spiced holiday feel, try a pinch of cinnamon or ginger extract – these make for wonderfully unique holiday cream cheese candy recipes.
- Color Play: Use gel food coloring to dye your dough in traditional Christmas colors like red, green, and white, or even go for a pastel palette. You can swirl two colors together for a marbled effect, making each mint a tiny work of art.
- Dietary Adaptations: For those looking for gluten-free options, simply ensure your powdered sugar is certified gluten-free. While not a common dietary restriction for this type of candy, exploring sugar-free powdered sugar alternatives could also be an option, though it may alter the texture slightly.
- Spicy Kick: For the adventurous palate, consider adding a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon extract to create spicy cream cheese mints. This unexpected warmth makes a bold statement and is a fun departure from the usual sweet treats.
Amazing Christmas Cream Cheese Mints (30 Min Prep)
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 24 mints 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Create delightful no-bake Christmas Cream Cheese Mints for a festive treat. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for holiday gatherings or homemade gifts. Enjoy a creamy texture with a refreshing mint flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar, plus more for rolling
- 1 teaspoon Mint Extract
- 2 tablespoons Milk
- 1 cup Holiday Sprinkles (optional)
- Granulated Sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Soften cream cheese until smooth. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and mint extract with a hand mixer for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed. Incorporate milk and blend until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Fold in an additional 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of holiday sprinkles until the mixture resembles dough.
- Knead the dough on a clean surface with any remaining powdered sugar until it is consistent and no longer sticky, about 3-4 minutes.
- Roll small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) into balls approximately ¾ inch in diameter. Roll each ball in granulated sugar mixed with extra sprinkles.
- Place the shaped mints on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- After chilling, gently flatten each mint slightly with a fork. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- These mints can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze the mints in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened for smooth blending.
- If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more powdered sugar.
- Experiment with different extracts or add gel food coloring for custom flavors and colors.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mint
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 8 mg
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