Name: Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 8 oz block cream cheese, full fat; 4 tbsp butter, at room temperature; 8.5 to 9.5 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 1.5 tsp peppermint extract; 1 tsp vanilla extract; gel food coloring, as desired; 0.5 cup powdered sugar, for coating and dusting

Introduction to Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints

Why Cream Cheese Mints Are a Nostalgic Treat

If you grew up in a time when family gatherings featured tables brimming with homemade delights, you likely have fond memories of tasty old fashioned cream cheese mints. These delightful confections have a way of evoking nostalgia, transporting us back to simpler times filled with sweet moments.

Cream cheese mints are not just a treat but a cherished memory for many. From weddings to holidays, these little bites take us back to celebrations where flavors mingled with laughter and love. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing peppermint flavor make them irresistible, whether during a festive occasion or as a casual after-dinner sweet.

The beauty of cream cheese mints is their versatility. You can customize them with different colors and flavors to suit any event, making them a fun project to do with friends or family. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make! If you're longing for a taste of the past, or just want to impress your friends, follow along with this recipe that brings those nostalgic flavors right into your kitchen.

For more insights on flavor pairing and fun serving ideas, check out Martha Stewart's tips.

Ingredients for Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints

Creating Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints requires a handful of simple ingredients that combine to form the ultimate sweet treat. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

For the Dough

8 oz block cream cheese (full fat is best for that creamy texture)
4 tablespoon butter (make sure it's at room temperature)
8 ½ to 9 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted for easy mixing)
1 ½ teaspoon peppermint extract (this gives the mints their delightful flavor)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds a touch of warmth)
Gel food coloring (feel free to get creative with colors!)

For Shaping and Finishing

½ cup powdered sugar (for coating and dusting your mints)

These ingredients come together to give you that nostalgic taste that instantly transports you back to carefree days. Remember, the quality of your cream cheese and butter will truly impact the final flavor, so don’t skimp on that! For tips on using gel food coloring effectively, check out this helpful guide. Happy mint-making!

Step-by-step Preparation of Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints

Soften the Butter and Cream Cheese

To start your journey into making Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints, you’ll need to soften the butter and cream cheese. Simply take an 8 oz block of full-fat cream cheese and 4 tbsp of butter out of the fridge about an hour before you begin. This step is crucial; having them at room temperature allows for a smoother blend and a better texture in your mints.

Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese Together

Once your butter and cream cheese are softened, grab a large mixing bowl and an electric mixer. Combine the softened cream cheese and butter, mixing until the mixture is smooth and creamy. It should resemble a light frosting. This is where the magic begins, as the two come together to form the base of your delicious treats.

Incorporate Sugar and Extracts to Form Dough

Next up, it's time to sweeten things up! Start by adding 8 ½ to 9 ½ cups of sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, to your creamed mixture. Continue mixing until it's fully absorbed. Then, pour in 1 ½ tsp of peppermint extract and 1 tsp of vanilla extract for that classic minty flavor. Mix thoroughly! As the dough thickens, you might find it easier to start kneading by hand. Aim for a Play-Doh-like consistency that doesn’t stick to your fingers for the perfect minty texture.

Color the Dough and Refrigerate

Feeling creative? Divide your dough into portions and add gel food coloring, one drop at a time, kneading until the color is evenly distributed. This step not only adds fun to your mints, but it also makes them visually appealing! Once colored, wrap each dough ball in plastic wrap and place them in the fridge for at least an hour. This resting period allows the dough to firm up and makes shaping easier.

Shape the Mints

With your dough chilled and ready, pull it out of the fridge and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Measure out 1 teaspoon of dough for each mint, rolling them into small balls and placing them evenly spaced on the sheet. This is where you start to see your Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints take form.

Flatten and Mark the Mints

Prepare to make your mints even more distinctive! Pour ½ cup of powdered sugar into a bowl for dusting. Then, using a fork dipped in powdered sugar, carefully flatten each dough ball. The fork prongs will create a lovely pattern, making them look extra special. Don’t be shy with the powdered sugar—this keeps everything from sticking!

Harden and Store the Mints

Finally, let those beautiful mints harden up! Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 4 hours. Afterward, flip them over and give them another 2 hours to fully harden. Once they’re ready, store your mints in an airtight container. Enjoy the sweet sensation of homemade mints that not only taste incredible but also bring a touch of nostalgia to any gathering!

For additional flavor variations, consider experimenting with different extracts, like lemon or chocolate. Happy mint-making!

Variations of Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints

Colorful Holiday Mints

Get creative by using gel food coloring to transform your Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints into a vibrant holiday treat! You can make pastel shades for Easter or bold, festive colors for Christmas—think deep reds and greens. Separating the dough into portions and mixing in colors can make your platter pop, making these mints not only delicious but visually stunning. Consider wrapping them as gifts for a personal touch that shows you care!

Flavor-Infused Mints

While mint is traditional, why not explore different flavor profiles? You can infuse your Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints with various extracts, like almond, orange, or even coconut, for a unique twist. Experiment with mixing flavors, like pairing peppermint with a hint of chocolate or lemon. This not only makes your treats exciting but caters to diverse taste preferences—perfect for any gathering!

For more flavor inspiration, visit The Spruce Eats for additional ideas. Happy minting!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints

When making Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints, pay attention to the consistency of your dough. If it’s too sticky, keep adding sifted powdered sugar until you achieve that perfect Play-Doh-like texture. Feeling adventurous? Try mixing different extracts for a unique flavor twist, like almond or coconut, to elevate your mints!

Don’t rush the chilling process. Giving the dough time to firm up in the refrigerator helps with easier shaping and improves flavor. Lastly, dusting your hands and tools with powdered sugar prevents sticking and adds a delightful sweetness! For more inspiration, check out these tips on making homemade candies. Enjoy your mint-making adventure!

Serving Suggestions for Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints

These delightful Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your serving ideas!

Presentation: Serve your mints on a decorative platter, perhaps alongside some fresh fruit like strawberries or slices of apple. The colors of your mints will pop against the vibrant fruit!
Pairing: Offer them alongside a refreshing cup of herbal tea or a delicious coffee blend, which can balance their sweetness beautifully.
Gifting: Consider packaging them in cute little boxes tied with a ribbon for sweet gifts. Homemade treats always show you care!

For more sweet tooth inspirations, check out resources on dessert styling from The Spruce Eats or explore creative food pairing tips from Food & Wine. Enjoy crafting these delightful mints!

Time Breakdown for Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints

Preparation Time

Get ready for some minty magic! The preparation time for these delightful mints is approximately 15 minutes. This includes softening the cream cheese and butter, mixing the ingredients, and shaping the dough.

Chilling Time

Next, you'll want to allow your mints to chill for about 1 hour. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect consistency, making it easier to roll and shape your mints later on.

Total Time

In total, you're looking at around 6 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish. While that might seem like a stretch, most of that time is passive, just waiting for your tasty creations to harden. Perfect for prepping ahead of a busy day!

For more tips on crafting delectable treats, check out sources like The Spruce Eats or Taste of Home for inspiration and guidance.

Nutritional Facts for Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints

When indulging in Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints, it’s great to be mindful of their nutritional content. Here's a quick breakdown:

Calories

Each mint contains approximately 50 calories. A delightful treat that won’t break your daily calorie bank, especially when you savor them mindfully.

Sugar Content

These mints have a sugar content of about 8 grams per serving. While they satisfy your sweet tooth, moderation is key.

Fat Content

Thanks to the cream cheese and butter, each mint has about 3 grams of fat. It adds richness and flavor, making these mints a creamy delight!

For more insights on nutrition, you can check out Nutrition.gov or the USDA’s FoodData Central. Enjoy your mints guilt-free!

FAQs about Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints

How long do the mints last?

When stored properly, your Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints can last about 2 to 3 weeks at room temperature. Just keep them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them—this can give you an additional week or so before they start losing their delightful flavor.

Can I make these mints in advance?

Absolutely! These mints are perfect for making in advance, especially for holidays or gatherings. You can prepare the dough and shape the mints up to a week ahead of time. After you've shaped them, simply store them in an airtight container. Then, when you’re ready to serve, just let them sit at room temperature for a short while to soften slightly before enjoying.

What are some alternatives to peppermint extract?

If you want to switch things up a bit, there are plenty of flavors you can try instead of peppermint extract for your Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints:

Spearmint extract: Less intense than peppermint, but still fresh.
Almond extract: For a nutty twist that adds warmth.
Vanilla extract: Gives a delightful, classic flavor.
Cinnamon or lemon zest: For a unique and zesty dimension.

Experimenting with these flavors can provide a fun variety to your mint-making adventures!

Conclusion on Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints

In summary, Tasty Old Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. They blend creamy textures with refreshing mint, making them an irresistible addition to your dessert table. Whether for special events or casual gatherings, these mints are sure to impress. Give them a try and savor the nostalgia!