Christmas Cream Cheese Mints

These melt-in-your-mouth Christmas cream cheese mints transform any holiday gathering into something special with their festive appearance and refreshing peppermint flavor. Ready in just 25 minutes of prep time plus a little chilling, these no bake Christmas mints are simple to prepare but deliver maximum holiday cheer. Whether you are making treats for a cookie exchange, holiday platters, or thoughtful homemade gifts, these cream cheese mints combine the perfect balance of cooling mint and festive sweetness in every bite.

I first made these cream cheese peppermints when searching for a quick yet beautiful addition to my Christmas cookie platter, and they quickly became the most requested holiday sweet from my family and friends. The creamy texture with bright mint flavor and colorful sprinkles makes each bite as fun as it is delicious. I now look forward to making these festive mints with my kids every December, and they have truly become a beloved part of our holiday baking tradition.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Full fat cream cheese yields the richest, creamiest texture for Christmas mints. For smooth results, let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before making your dough. Reduced fat will work in a pinch but can result in a slightly softer texture.
• Powdered sugar (4 cups, divided): Provides sweetness and helps set the dough. Use sifted powdered sugar for lump free creamy results. Extra may be needed to adjust the consistency if the dough is too sticky.
• Mint extract (1/2 teaspoon): Gives classic Christmas flavor. You can swap for peppermint extract if you want a stronger cooling sensation. Pure extract is best for a natural, clean taste.
• Milk (1 tablespoon): A splash helps achieve the best dough texture without it becoming too soft. Whole or reduced fat milk both work. Add slowly and adjust as needed.
• Holiday sprinkles (1/4 cup, divided): Adds festive color to both the dough and the sugar coating. Use bright, non bleeding sprinkles for a more vibrant holiday look. Change colors for different celebrations.
• Granulated or powdered sugar (1/2 cup, for coating): Coats the finished mints to prevent sticking and adds extra sweetness. Powdered sugar makes for a soft coating while granulated sugar gives a subtle crunch. Both work for this recipe.

How to Make Christmas Cream Cheese Mints

Prepare the Base Mixture:

With a hand mixer on low speed, beat the softened cream cheese and mint extract together in a medium bowl until completely smooth with no lumps remaining. This creamy mixture is the flavorful base for the mints and ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Add Initial Powdered Sugar:

Gradually blend in 2 cups of powdered sugar along with the milk, mixing just until combined and the mixture is smooth. Overmixing at this stage can make the dough too soft. If you see any lumps, beat briefly until incorporated.

Incorporate Sprinkles:

Add 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of holiday sprinkles to the dough. Mix gently on low to distribute the sprinkles evenly. Avoid overmixing so the sprinkles hold their color for a festive presentation.

Knead Final Sugar:

Use clean hands to knead in the remaining 1 cup of powdered sugar. The dough should become pliable but not sticky. If the dough still feels sticky, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you can form a small ball that holds together.

Prepare Coating Mixture:

In a small bowl, combine the 1/2 cup granulated or powdered sugar with the remaining sprinkles. Stir well so each coating will be colorful and sweet. This keeps the mints from sticking and adds festive sparkle.

Form Mint Balls:

Roll teaspoon sized portions of dough between your palms to create 3/4 inch balls. Uniform size helps the mints chill and set evenly. Work quickly to prevent sticky hands; dust with extra powdered sugar if needed.

Roll in Sugar Coating:

Roll each mint ball in the sugar sprinkle mixture until completely coated. This not only prevents sticking but boosts holiday color and sweetness for a pretty finish on your treats.

Arrange for Chilling:

Space the coated mint balls on a parchment lined baking sheet so they do not touch. Allow a little room to prevent any sticking and to help them chill evenly before shaping.

Chill Thoroughly:

Refrigerate the prepared mints for at least 30 minutes, or up to 60 minutes for optimal firmness. Chilling helps them keep their shape and allows the flavors to meld together for the best taste.

Flatten and Set:

Once chilled, remove from the fridge and use a fork to gently flatten each mint, creating the traditional crisscross pattern. Press just enough to make an impression without cracking the mints. Let them set at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

I learned the importance of refrigerating these cream cheese mints the hard way my first Christmas, as they softened too much at room temperature and lost their shape. Now, I always store them chilled up until right before serving, which locks in their perfect shape and gives that signature melt in your mouth feel. My kids love helping roll and decorate these mints, making prep time a sweet family moment each December.

Smart Swaps and Variations

The flexibility of this cream cheese mints recipe means you can create endless variations for different holidays or flavor preferences. For a new twist, swap the mint extract with almond, lemon, or vanilla for a different taste experience each time. Use rainbow sprinkles for birthdays or coordinate sprinkle colors to match any holiday. Add a drop of gel food coloring to the dough for bold shades, or press a small candy into the center before flattening for a special surprise. Chocolate lovers can blend in a couple tablespoons of cocoa powder and use peppermint for a rich chocolate mint version that stands out on any holiday dessert tray.

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Cream Cheese Mints

For best results, store your finished Christmas cream cheese mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Layer mints between pieces of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. The mints will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks when chilled properly. For longer term storage, freeze mints in a freezer safe container separated by parchment for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and allow 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature for best texture. Always keep away from strong smelling foods in the fridge, as mints easily absorb odors.

What to Serve with Christmas Cream Cheese Mints

Christmas cream cheese mints are the ideal finishing touch for any festive dessert spread. Arrange them with chocolate crinkles, gingerbread, and sugar cookies on a holiday platter for a colorful display. Pair with mugs of hot chocolate or warm apple cider for a cozy treat that blends sweet and minty flavors. You can also add these easy mints to a dessert charcuterie board with fruits, nuts, and chocolate covered pretzels. For gifting, package them in decorative tins alongside homemade candies and cookies. They look beautiful as edible decor on cakes or as holiday cocktail garnishes for extra festive flair.

Nutritional Benefits

While these Christmas cream cheese mints are a special treat, they can offer a lighter alternative to many heavier holiday desserts. Compared to traditional cookies or bars, their smaller size encourages moderation. Cream cheese adds a modest amount of protein and calcium, especially if you choose a reduced fat option. Since this recipe is naturally wheat free, it fits easily into a gluten free holiday menu. The clean, cooling mint flavor also makes them satisfying with just a couple of pieces, supporting mindful eating during holiday celebrations.

Recipe Success Tips

Even easy holiday recipes can have a learning curve, but a few quick tips will ensure your Christmas cream cheese mints turn out perfectly. If the dough starts to crumble, gently add a splash more milk and knead until smooth. Should your dough be too soft, mix in extra powdered sugar one tablespoon at a time. If your mint flavor is too intense, try reducing extract by a quarter teaspoon next time, or balance with a splash of vanilla. To prevent colored sprinkles from bleeding, chill your dough after mixing and before rolling. Lightly dust forks with powdered sugar if mints stick while flattening. The temperature and humidity of your kitchen may affect dough consistency, especially on warm days, so adjust chilling time and sugar as needed.

These Christmas cream cheese mints are now a beloved tradition in my home, bringing holiday smiles to family and friends every year. I hope you find them just as delicious and festive, and that they add a special touch of sweetness to your holiday celebrations this season.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How do I achieve a smooth dough texture for the mints?

Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing, and gradually add the powdered sugar. Knead the dough with your hands to reach a consistent, non-sticky texture.

→ Can I use different extracts instead of mint?

Yes, you can substitute mint extract with vanilla or almond extract for a different flavor, while still maintaining the creamy texture of the mints.

→ How should I store these mints?

Store the prepared mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks to keep them fresh and flavorful.

→ Are holiday sprinkles necessary for the mints?

Holiday sprinkles add festive color and texture but can be omitted or replaced with your preferred decorative topping.

→ Can I freeze cream cheese mints for later?

Yes, these mints can be frozen in a sealed container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for best texture.