Name: Homemade Cream Cheese Mints
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 12 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar (plus more for rolling); 1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract; Food coloring (optional); Granulated sugar (for rolling)

Smooth, creamy, and irresistibly nostalgic, these homemade cream cheese mints are a no-bake treat I love making for holidays, weddings, baby showers, or just because. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing peppermint flavor, they’re the perfect balance of sweet and minty. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 oz cream cheese, softened

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

3 1/2 cups powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)

1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract

Food coloring (optional)

Granulated sugar (for rolling)

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, I beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.

I add the peppermint extract and mix it in well.

Gradually, I add the powdered sugar—one cup at a time—beating on low speed until a stiff, moldable dough forms.

If I’m using food coloring, I divide the dough into portions and knead in the desired colors.

I roll the dough into small 1-inch balls, then flatten each one with a fork or press them into decorative molds.

Then I roll each piece lightly in granulated sugar to give them a subtle sparkle and finish.

I place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them air-dry, uncovered, for at least 12 hours until they’re firm to the touch.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 50 cream cheese mints.

Prep time: 20 minutes

Drying time: 12 hours

Total time: 12 hours 20 minutes

Calories per mint: 65 kcal

Variations

Flavor twist: I sometimes swap out the peppermint extract for vanilla, almond, or lemon extract to change the flavor profile.

Color play: I like to use different food coloring for seasonal or themed events—pastels for baby showers, red and green for Christmas, or pinks and whites for weddings.

Shape variety: Using silicone candy molds or mini cookie cutters gives me fun and elegant shapes beyond the traditional fork-pressed pattern.

Coating change: Instead of granulated sugar, I’ve also rolled these in sanding sugar or even powdered sugar for a different texture and look.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cream cheese mints in an airtight container layered with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. I always let them come to room temperature before serving, which brings back their creamy texture. Reheating isn’t needed since these are no-bake treats.

FAQs

How long do cream cheese mints need to dry?

I let them air-dry uncovered for at least 12 hours, or overnight, to firm up properly. Drying time is essential for their texture.

Can I freeze cream cheese mints?

Yes, I freeze them in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a container with parchment between layers. They thaw beautifully in the fridge or at room temp.

Can I make cream cheese mints ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make them a week or two in advance and keep them refrigerated or frozen until the event.

Do I have to use peppermint extract?

No, I can use other extracts like almond, vanilla, or lemon if I want to change the flavor. Peppermint is traditional, but it’s flexible.

Why are my cream cheese mints too soft?

If the dough is too soft to shape, I add a little more powdered sugar. Humidity or under-measuring can make them sticky, so I adjust as needed.

Conclusion

These homemade cream cheese mints are a simple, elegant treat I come back to again and again. Whether I’m making them for a special occasion or just to share with friends, they always impress with their nostalgic charm, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and classic minty flavor. Easy to customize, store, and prepare ahead, they’re a timeless candy that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

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