WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
If you’re looking for a fun and tasty treat, you’ll love these Orange Cream Cheese Mints! They are sweet, zesty, and super easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for parties or a quick snack. I’ll guide you through each step, plus share tips for making them look and taste great. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bright Flavor: The combination of fresh orange zest and juice brings a refreshing burst of citrus that elevates these mints beyond the ordinary.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike.
- Customizable: The optional food coloring allows you to tailor the mints to match any occasion or theme, adding a fun visual element.
- Perfect for Gifting: These delightful mints not only taste amazing but also make lovely homemade gifts for friends and family.
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
– 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
– Yellow and orange food coloring (optional, for visual appeal)
– Granulated sugar, for coating
To make Orange Cream Cheese Mints, start with some basic ingredients. Cream cheese and unsalted butter create a rich base. The cream cheese should be soft, which helps blend it well. You will also need powdered sugar to sweeten the mix. Sifting it first keeps the mints smooth.
Next, add fresh orange zest and juice for a bright, citrus flavor. These ingredients give the mints their unique taste. Don’t forget the pure vanilla extract! It adds depth to the flavors. The fine sea salt balances the sweetness.
If you want to make the mints look fun, consider using yellow and orange food coloring. It’s optional but can make your treats pop. Lastly, granulated sugar is used to coat the mints, adding a nice crunch.
These ingredients come together to create a simple yet delightful treat. Enjoy the process of mixing and creating these sweet mints!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Method
– Start by mixing the cream cheese and butter. In a large bowl, beat them on medium speed for 2-3 minutes. This makes the mixture smooth.
– Next, add the powdered sugar. Do this slowly to avoid a sugar cloud. Mix on low speed until it’s fully blended.
– Now, stir in the orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Keep mixing until it’s smooth and well combined.
– If you want color, add a few drops of yellow and orange food coloring. Blend until you reach your desired shade.
– Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Chill the mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes. This helps it firm up.
Forming the Mints
– Once chilled, scoop out small portions using a teaspoon. Roll each piece into a ball with your hands.
– Roll each ball in granulated sugar until they are fully coated. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Use a fork or your fingers to gently press down each mint. This flattens them into a nice shape.
Final Steps
– Put the flattened mints back in the fridge. Chill them for at least 1 hour before serving. This step helps them set well.
Tips & Tricks
Making the Process Easier
– Room temperature ingredients: Start with cream cheese and butter at room temp. This helps them mix well and become creamy. Cold ingredients can make your mints lumpy.
– Avoiding powdered sugar mess: When adding powdered sugar, mix on low speed. This will keep the sugar from puffing up and making a mess.
Perfecting Flavor and Texture
– Adjusting sweetness and zest: Taste the mixture as you mix. If you want more flavor, add more orange zest or juice. You can also reduce the sugar if it’s too sweet.
– Achieving the right consistency: The mixture should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar until you get the right texture.
Presentation Ideas
– Creative serving suggestions: Serve the mints in a pretty candy dish or on a colorful platter. This makes them look festive and fun.
– Garnishing for visual appeal: Add a sprinkle of fresh orange zest or a few mint leaves on top. This gives a nice pop of color and makes your mints even more inviting.
Pro Tips
- Chill for Better Handling: Allowing the mixture to chill for 30 minutes not only firms it up but also makes it easier to roll into perfect balls without sticking to your hands.
- Customize Your Color: Feel free to adjust the amount of food coloring to match your occasion. A vibrant hue can make your mints more visually appealing!
- Perfect Sugar Coating: For an even sugar coating, consider rolling the mints in sugar multiple times or using superfine sugar for a smoother finish.
- Creative Shapes: Instead of forming traditional balls, use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for special occasions, adding a personal touch to your treats!
Variations
Flavor Modifications
You can change the flavor of your Orange Cream Cheese Mints in fun ways. Try using lemon or lime zest instead of orange. These citrus swaps bring a bright taste to your mints. You can also mix flavors. A blend of orange and lemon zest creates a unique twist. For a different scent, add mint or almond extract. These extracts can give your mints a fresh vibe. A drop or two is all you need for a boost.
Dietary Adjustments
For those on a vegan diet, you can make these mints using plant-based cream cheese. This swap keeps the taste while fitting your needs. Look for a brand that works well in desserts. You can also make them gluten-free. Use cornstarch instead of powdered sugar to help your mints hold together. This change keeps the texture right while making the treat safe for everyone. Enjoy your mints knowing they fit your diet!
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your Orange Cream Cheese Mints fresh, chill them well. After making the mints, place them in the fridge for at least an hour. This helps them firm up nicely. Once they are set, store them in an airtight container. I recommend using a container that seals tightly. This keeps moisture out and preserves the mints’ flavor.
Shelf Life
You can store the mints in the fridge for up to two weeks. After that, they may start to lose their taste and texture. Signs of spoilage include an off smell, discoloration, or a change in texture. If you notice any of these, it’s best to discard them. Always trust your senses when checking food freshness!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I freeze Orange Cream Cheese Mints?
Yes, you can freeze these mints. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to three months. Just let them thaw in the fridge before you eat them.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can use a plant-based cream cheese if you want a dairy-free option. Neufchâtel cheese works well too. It has a similar taste and texture to cream cheese.
How do I make them less sweet?
To make the mints less sweet, reduce the powdered sugar. Start by cutting it down to three cups. You can also add more orange zest or juice for a bolder flavor.
Additional Browsing
Are there store-bought options available?
Yes, some stores sell similar cream cheese mints. Check your local candy aisle or specialty shops. They may not taste as fresh, but they are convenient.
How can I customize the flavor?
You can add different extracts, like mint or lemon. Try mixing in other citrus zest for a twist. Experimenting makes it fun and unique!
In this blog post, we explored how to make tasty Orange Cream Cheese Mints. We covered what ingredients you need, like cream cheese, butter, and flavorings. You learned a simple step-by-step method to mix, shape, and chill your mints. We shared tips for improving taste and ideas for serving. Plus, we looked at flavor variations and storage tips to keep them fresh.
With these insights, you can create mints that impress everyone. Enjoy making your sweet treat
Citrus Bliss Cream Cheese Mints
Refreshing and creamy mints infused with citrus flavors.
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 2 hours hrs
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24
Calories 50 kcal
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- to taste yellow and orange food coloring (optional)
- to taste granulated sugar, for coating
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to prevent a cloud of sugar from puffing up. Continue mixing until all the sugar is fully incorporated.
Stir in the fresh orange zest, freshly squeezed orange juice, pure vanilla extract, and fine sea salt. Mix until the ingredients are completely blended and smooth.
If you'd like to add color, introduce a few drops of yellow and orange food coloring. Mix well until the dough reaches your desired vibrancy.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow it to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make the mixture firmer and easier to handle.
Once chilled, use a teaspoon to scoop out portions of the mixture and roll each portion into small, bite-sized balls using your hands.
Roll each ball in granulated sugar until fully coated, then arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Using a fork or your fingers, gently press each mint down to flatten them slightly, creating a more authentic mint-like shape.
Place the flattened mints back in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour to help them firm up before serving.
Serve in a decorative dish and garnish with orange zest or mint leaves.
Keyword citrus, cream cheese, dessert, mints
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
