Introduction
Valentine’s Cream Cheese Butter Mints are the perfect sweet treat to melt your heart. These soft, creamy, and irresistibly smooth mints are delicately flavored and can be customized in beautiful pastel colors to suit any Valentine’s Day theme. Whether you’re creating an elegant candy dish or preparing a thoughtful homemade gift, these mints bring a touch of sweetness and charm to the occasion. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture, combined with a subtle buttery flavor, makes them a standout confection. Best of all, they are surprisingly simple to make at home!
Ingredients
- 4 oz (1/2 block) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4–5 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (or vanilla extract for a milder flavor)
- Food coloring (red, pink, or any Valentine’s Day colors)
- Granulated sugar (for rolling and coating)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Using an electric mixer or hand whisk, beat the mixture until it’s smooth, creamy, and fully blended. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
Step 2: Add Flavoring and Sugar
Add the peppermint or vanilla extract to the mixture and mix well. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the dough reaches a pliable but firm consistency. You’ll know it’s ready when it no longer sticks to your hands but remains soft enough to mold.
Step 3: Add Food Coloring
Divide the dough into separate portions if you want to create multiple colors. Add a few drops of food coloring to each portion, kneading until the color is evenly distributed. For Valentine’s Day, consider shades of pink, red, or white.
Step 4: Shape the Mints
Dust your hands lightly with powdered sugar. Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll them into balls, about the size of a marble. Alternatively, you can roll the dough into long ropes and cut it into small squares or hearts. Use candy molds for festive shapes if desired.
Step 5: Coat and Set
Roll each mint lightly in granulated sugar, ensuring a delicate, sparkly finish. Place the shaped mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to air dry at room temperature for at least 4–6 hours or overnight until they firm up.
Variation
- Flavors: Substitute peppermint extract with lemon, almond, or strawberry extract for unique flavor profiles.
- Colors: Add glittery edible dust for an extra festive look or use pastel colors for a softer presentation.
- Shapes: Use heart-shaped molds or stamp designs on top with the flat end of a fork for a textured effect.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the butter and cream cheese are fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- For a stronger mint flavor, increase the peppermint extract slightly, but use sparingly as it can be overpowering.
- If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add more powdered sugar until it reaches the desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- Arrange the mints on a decorative platter for Valentine’s parties or romantic dinners.
- Package the mints in clear cellophane bags tied with a red or pink ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Pair the mints with chocolates, cookies, or a cup of hot cocoa for a complete dessert spread.
Tips
- If you’re short on time, chill the dough briefly before shaping—it makes handling easier.
- Use a clean toothpick to add food coloring to avoid accidentally over-coloring.
- Store the mints in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. Refrigeration is optional but recommended for extended freshness.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (active shaping)
Total Time: 25 minutes + drying time
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~50 per mint
Protein: <1 g
Sodium: ~5 mg
FAQs
1. Can I make these mints ahead of time?
Absolutely! These mints store well in an airtight container for up to two weeks. You can make them a few days ahead of Valentine’s Day for convenience.
2. What’s the best way to store the mints?
Store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. If you live in a warm climate, refrigerate them to prevent melting.
3. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the creamiest texture. Low-fat cream cheese may make the dough slightly softer.
4. How do I prevent the dough from sticking to my hands?
Dust your hands with powdered sugar or refrigerate the dough for 10–15 minutes to make it easier to handle.
5. Can I freeze these mints?
Yes! Freeze them in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
Valentine’s Cream Cheese Butter Mints are the perfect combination of elegance and simplicity. They are an ideal treat to show your loved ones how much you care, whether for a romantic evening, a festive gathering, or a homemade gift. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture, endless customization options, and charming appearance, these mints will surely become a cherished addition to your holiday celebrations. Try making a batch today, and watch them disappear in no time!
Print
Valentine’s Cream Cheese Butter Mints
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 60–70 mints 1x
Description
Valentine’s Cream Cheese Butter Mints are the perfect sweet treat to melt your heart. These soft, creamy, and irresistibly smooth mints are delicately flavored and can be customized in beautiful pastel colors to suit any Valentine’s Day theme. Whether you’re creating an elegant candy dish or preparing a thoughtful homemade gift, these mints bring a touch of sweetness and charm to the occasion. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture, combined with a subtle buttery flavor, makes them a standout confection. Best of all, they are surprisingly simple to make at home!
Ingredients
- 4 oz (1/2 block) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4–5 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (or vanilla extract for a milder flavor)
- Food coloring (red, pink, or any Valentine’s Day colors)
- Granulated sugar (for rolling and coating)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Using an electric mixer or hand whisk, beat the mixture until it’s smooth, creamy, and fully blended. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
Step 2: Add Flavoring and Sugar
Add the peppermint or vanilla extract to the mixture and mix well. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the dough reaches a pliable but firm consistency. You’ll know it’s ready when it no longer sticks to your hands but remains soft enough to mold.
Step 3: Add Food Coloring
Divide the dough into separate portions if you want to create multiple colors. Add a few drops of food coloring to each portion, kneading until the color is evenly distributed. For Valentine’s Day, consider shades of pink, red, or white.
Step 4: Shape the Mints
Dust your hands lightly with powdered sugar. Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll them into balls, about the size of a marble. Alternatively, you can roll the dough into long ropes and cut it into small squares or hearts. Use candy molds for festive shapes if desired.
Step 5: Coat and Set
Roll each mint lightly in granulated sugar, ensuring a delicate, sparkly finish. Place the shaped mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to air dry at room temperature for at least 4–6 hours or overnight until they firm up.
Notes
- Storage Tip: To keep the mints fresh and flavorful, store them in an airtight container. For a firmer texture, refrigerate them; however, they are best served at room temperature.
- Customizable Flavors and Colors: You can adjust the flavors by experimenting with extracts like lemon, almond, or strawberry. Choose colors that match the occasion for added personalization.
- Perfect Texture: If the dough becomes too stiff while adding powdered sugar, mix in a teaspoon of milk or water to soften it slightly.
- Shaping Precision: Use small cookie cutters, candy molds, or even silicone molds to create uniform shapes for a professional finish.
- Drying Time: Allow enough drying time to let the mints firm up, as this ensures they don’t stick together when stored.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Candy
- Method: No-bake, hand-shaped
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mint (approximately 5 grams)
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: <1 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg