Name: Fresh and Creamy Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints Delight
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 4 oz Cream Cheese (at room temperature); 1/2 tsp Orange Extract (start with less to taste); 1 tsp Grated Orange Peel (freshly zested); 1-2 drops Orange Gel Coloring (Wilton brand recommended); 4 cups Confectioners’ Sugar (sifted); 1 tbsp Butter (softened)

As I popped a Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mint into my mouth, the vibrant citrus flavor awakened my taste buds in the most delightful way. These little gems are perfect for any festive gathering, providing a refreshing palate cleanser that’s so easy to make. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these creamy delights—no baking required! They not only impress guests but also let you ditch those store-bought candies loaded with artificial ingredients. Whether you’re looking to add a sweet touch to your holiday table or simply treat yourself after dinner, these mints are a crowd-pleaser that won’t break the bank or your time budget. Curious about how you can create your own batch of these elegant confections? Let’s dive in!

Why Make Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints?

Simplicity: These mints require no baking, eliminating the stress often associated with candy making.

Refreshing Flavor: The combination of zesty orange and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering treat that’s both bright and satisfying.

Flexible Variations: Feel free to customize with different extracts like peppermint or lemon, ensuring there’s a mint for everyone’s taste.

Lasting Appeal: Perfect for parties or as a charming gift, they impress without demanding much effort or time.

Quick Preparation: Whip up a batch in just 25 minutes, allowing you to enjoy homemade candy without the lengthy process.

Add these mints to your festive spread alongside Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls or enjoy them after a hearty meal as a delightful palate cleanser.

Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints Ingredients

• Ready to create these delightful mints? Here’s everything you need!

For the Mints

Butter – Softened; provides creaminess and richness to the mints. Use margarine as a substitute for a dairy-free version.
Cream Cheese – 4 oz, at room temperature; acts as the base, providing a creamy texture. Full-fat is recommended for best results.
Orange Extract – 1/2 tsp; provides a concentrated orange flavor. Start with a smaller amount to avoid overpowering the mixture.
Grated Orange Peel – 1 tsp; adds fresh, vibrant citrus flavor. Use freshly zested orange for the best aromatic oils.
Orange Gel Coloring – 1-2 drops (Wilton brand recommended); enhances visual appeal. Avoid liquid food coloring to maintain texture.
Confectioners’ Sugar – 4 cups, sifted; sweetens the mints and allows for a smooth dough. Essential to sift to break up lumps before using.

Enjoy making your Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints, a charming treat that offers a burst of citrus freshness and delightful creaminess!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Begin your Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints by zesting an orange and sifting the confectioners’ sugar to ensure a smooth blend. Use a fine grater to finely zest the orange peel, releasing its vibrant oils, and set both ingredients aside. This preparation will set the stage for your creamy mints, allowing for easy mixing later on.

Step 2: Mix Base
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 4 oz of softened cream cheese and softened butter. Use a spatula to mix these two ingredients for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture appears smooth and creamy, free of lumps. This fluffy base creates the foundation for your Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints, ensuring a rich texture.

Step 3: Add Flavor
Once your cream cheese and butter are well combined, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of orange extract and 1 teaspoon of grated orange peel. Mix thoroughly until the flavors are evenly distributed, making sure the zesty orange aroma fills the air. This step enhances the mint mixture, infusing it with a refreshing taste that will shine through.

Step 4: Incorporate Sugar
Gradually introduce the sifted confectioners’ sugar into the bowl, adding it in three increments. Mix well after each addition for about 1-2 minutes until the dough forms a thick, moldable consistency. The dough should be slightly sticky yet hold together without crumbling, which is crucial for shaping the mints.

Step 5: Shape Mints
With your dough ready, take small portions and roll them into 1/2-inch balls between your palms. Place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet, flattening each ball gently with a fork. This step not only shapes your Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints but also gives them a lovely decorative touch.

Step 6: Chill
Cover the baking sheet with a clean towel and refrigerate the mints for 1 hour. This chilling period allows the mints to firm up, making them easier to handle and ensuring they retain their shape. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel firm to the touch yet still slightly soft in the center.

Step 7: Store
After chilling, carefully transfer your Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints into an airtight container for storage. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just layer parchment paper between mints to prevent sticking, ensuring that they stay fresh and delightful for longer.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints are a delightful treat that lend themselves perfectly to meal prep! You can prepare the mint dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and rolling them into balls. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep their fresh flavor intact. When you’re ready to serve, simply flatten and chill them for at least 1 hour to ensure they hold their shape. Additionally, these mints can be frozen for up to 3 months; just separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You’ll find that even after being made ahead, they remain just as delicious and refreshing, making your busy schedule a little sweeter!

Expert Tips for Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints

Room Temperature Ingredients: Always let your cream cheese and butter sit at room temperature before mixing. This will ensure a smooth blend and prevent lumps in your dough.
Sifting Sugar: Sift your confectioners’ sugar to break up lumps before adding it to the mixture. Adding powdered sugar too quickly can lead to a lumpy consistency.
Adding Flavor Gradually: When mixing in the orange extract, start with a smaller amount. You can always add more, but it’s challenging to tone down an overpowering flavor.
Chill Dough If Sticky: If you find that the dough becomes too sticky while shaping, simply chill it briefly before rolling. Dust your hands with powdered sugar to help avoid sticking.
Check Dough Consistency: The final dough should hold together without crumbling or being excessively sticky. Adjust the amount of sugar as needed for the perfect Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints.

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints

Fridge: Store your mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This keeps them fresh and maintains their creamy texture, perfect for quick indulgence.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mints for up to 3 months. Layer parchment paper between the mints to prevent them from sticking together, ensuring they stay easy to separate.

Reheating: If using frozen mints, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Enjoy them chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Room Temperature: While not recommended for long-term storage, mints can be left out at room temperature for a short period during gatherings. Just ensure they’re consumed within a few hours to retain their quality.

What to Serve with Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints?

Elevate your gathering with these delightful mints that pair beautifully with a range of flavors and textures.

Fresh Fruit Platter: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a bright, juicy contrast, enhancing the citrus notes of the mints. Think strawberries, pineapple, and kiwi for a refreshing touch.
Herbal Tea: The soothing warmth of herbal tea complements the mints perfectly, creating a calming and aromatic end to your meal. Options like chamomile and mint tea can uplift the experience.
Dark Chocolate Truffles: The rich bitterness of dark chocolate creates a luxurious pairing that beautifully balances the sweetness of the mints. Each bite is a delightful harmony of flavors.
Cheese Board: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese to create a creamy contrast that deepens the flavor profile, making it a savory-sweet hero that everyone will love.
Sparkling Water with Citrus: A refreshing, fizzy drink garnished with lemon or lime enhances the mint’s bright flavor while providing a quenched thirst. The effervescence adds an exciting twist.
Mini Cheesecakes: These sweet, creamy desserts echo the mints’ flavor profile while providing different textures, making for an unforgettable dessert pairing. It’s a lovely way to wrap up your meal.

Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these delightful mints to your taste with these fun variations!

Minty Twist: Substitute orange extract with peppermint extract for a refreshing mint flavor. These green-hued bites will be a hit during the holidays!
Citrus Zing: Incorporate other citrus extracts like lemon or lime to create a medley of flavors. Imagine a burst of zesty sweetness with each bite!
Colorful Sprinkles: For a festive touch, roll the mints in coarse sugar or colored sprinkles before chilling. This adds a delightful crunch and makes them visually exciting.
Chocolate Drizzle: After chilling the mints, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate on top. It adds a rich contrast to the sweet orange flavor, perfect for special occasions!
Healthy Substitutions: Use Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese for a lighter variation. The tangy flavor and creamy texture still shine through, creating a guilt-free treat.
Nutty Variation: Mix in finely chopped nuts, like almonds or pistachios, into the mints for an added crunch. This twist brings interesting textures that will surprise your guests.
Infused with Heat: If you enjoy a little spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a surprising kick. This creates a unique balance of flavors that are sure to intrigue!

Explore these variations to find your favorite spin on these Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints. Pair them with charming options like Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds for a delightful dessert spread, or enjoy them after savoring a hearty bowl of Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup for a satisfying meal.

Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to choose ripe oranges for zesting?
Absolutely! When selecting oranges for zesting, look for firm, smooth-skinned fruits without any dark spots or blemishes. Choosing organic oranges is a great idea since you’ll be using the peel, and they are usually free from wax or other coatings that can interfere with flavor.

How should I store the Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints?
You can store your mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This method preserves their creamy texture while keeping them fresh and ready for whenever you need a sweet treat. If you decide to make a big batch, layering parchment paper between each mint helps prevent them from sticking together.

Can I freeze Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints?
Yes, you can freeze these delightful mints for up to 3 months! To do this, place the mints on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container with layers of parchment paper in between, ensuring they stay easily accessible and separate.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky while shaping?
If your dough feels sticky, don’t worry; this can happen! Simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. Dust your hands with a bit of confectioners’ sugar before rolling to help the dough not stick. This will make shaping the mints much easier and give you a better result.

Are there any dietary considerations for these mints?
Yes, definitely! If you’re making these for someone with dietary restrictions, you can substitute the butter with margarine or a dairy-free alternative, which works well for a dairy-free version. Additionally, be sure to check that all extracts and colorings are free from allergens common to those with allergies, like gluten or nuts.

Can I customize the flavor of the mints?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with different extracts based on your preferences. For example, you can easily swap the orange extract for peppermint or lemon for a unique twist. It’s a great way to cater to different tastes while still enjoying the rich creaminess of these mints.