Basic Recipe for Mints is a classic American confection often found at weddings, baby showers, holiday gatherings, and church socials. Cream cheese mints became especially popular in the mid-20th century when home entertaining flourished and simple, no-bake sweets were prized for convenience. Their smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing peppermint flavor make them both elegant and comforting. Easily tinted in pastel shades and shaped with molds or forks, these mints are beloved for their versatility, delicate sweetness, and charming presentation on dessert tables.
Ingredients
- 3 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 egg white
- ¼ tsp peppermint extract (or 2 to 3 drops peppermint oil)
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (sifted)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 5 ⅓ to 5 ¾ cups confectioners’ sugar (sifted (added gradually))
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and egg white.
- Beat until smooth and well blended.
Step 2: Add Flavoring
- Mix in peppermint extract (or peppermint oil).
- Blend thoroughly to distribute flavor evenly.
Step 3: Add Initial Dry Ingredients
- Add 1 cup sifted confectioners’ sugar and salt.
- Mix until incorporated.
Step 4: Build the Dough
- Gradually add 3 1/2 to 3 3/4 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar.
- Mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 5: Knead Until Smooth
- Turn mixture onto a sugar-dusted surface.
- Knead until smooth and pliable.
Step 6: Shape and Dry
- Roll into small balls and flatten with a fork or press into candy molds.
- Place on parchment paper and allow to dry for about 1 hour before serving.
Tips
- Add a few drops of food coloring for pastel party mints.
- Substitute almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- Roll mints in granulated sugar for a sparkly finish.
- Press into silicone candy molds for decorative shapes.
- Let dry overnight for a firmer texture.
- Dip halfway in melted chocolate for contrast.
- Store in an airtight container up to one week.
- Add a pinch of vanilla along with peppermint for depth.
Nutrition
Calories: 55kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 0.5gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 25mgPotassium: 15mgSugar: 9gVitamin A: 70IUCalcium: 8mgIron: 0.1mg