A quick and simple guide to make small orange cream cheese mints for your next snack or party.
introduction
These Orange Cream Cheese Mints are soft, sweet, and bright. They taste like orange candy with a creamy center. They work well after a heavy meal or as a small sweet at a party. You can serve them with other simple dishes like Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup for a fun contrast of flavors.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want an easy sweet that looks pretty and needs little time. The mix of orange and cream cheese gives a smooth, fresh taste. These mints use few ingredients and come together fast. If you like easy, creative snacks you might also enjoy a simple twist on a sandwich like Apple Cheddar Grilled Cheese.
how to make Orange Cream Cheese Mints
Make the mixture, chill it, then roll into balls and sugar them. Keep the work simple: mix, chill, shape, and chill again. For small party bites, you may also like a creamy side recipe such as Tini Mac and Cheese to serve alongside.
Ingredients :
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- green or orange food coloring (optional)
- granulated sugar for rolling
Directions :
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, orange juice, orange zest, and peppermint extract. Mix until well combined.
- If desired, add food coloring to achieve the desired color.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, scoop out small portions and roll them into balls.
- Roll the balls in granulated sugar to coat.
- Place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until set.
- Enjoy these treats at your next gathering!
how to serve Orange Cream Cheese Mints
Serve them cold on a small plate or in paper candy cups. Place a few on a dessert tray after dinner or keep them by the coffee station. They also make a good small gift in a clear bag tied with a ribbon.
how to store Orange Cream Cheese Mints
Keep the mints in an airtight container in the fridge. They last up to one week chilled. For longer keeping, freeze them on a tray until firm, then move to a freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
tips to make Orange Cream Cheese Mints
- Soften cream cheese to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Chill the mix so it firms and is easy to roll.
- Use a small scoop for even-sized mints.
- Roll quickly in granulated sugar so the surface stays neat.
- For help with handling cream cheese in recipes, see Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese for basic tips.
variation (if any)
- Make them all orange, or tint some green for a festive look.
- Swap peppermint extract for a drop of almond extract for a different flavor.
- Add more or less orange zest to change the citrus punch.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these without powdered sugar?
A: No. Powdered sugar gives the right texture and sweetness. Granulated sugar will not mix the same way.
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: You can, but the mints may be less rich and may not set as firmly.
Q: Can I freeze these mints?
A: Yes. Freeze them on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before serving. For other cheese ideas and uses, read Can Cottage Cheese Be Used on Pizza?
Q: How do I make them look fancier?
A: Roll some in colored sugar, or drizzle a thin line of melted white chocolate on top.
Q: What if the mixture is too sticky?
A: Chill longer, or add a small extra cup of powdered sugar and mix until it firms.
Orange Cream Cheese Mints
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, orange juice, orange zest, and peppermint extract. Mix until well combined.
- If desired, add food coloring to achieve the desired color.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, scoop out small portions and roll them into balls.
- Roll the balls in granulated sugar to coat.
- Place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until set.