Valentine’s Cream Cheese Butter Mints Recipe 💕
Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love and affection, and what better way to show your appreciation than with a homemade sweet treat? These Valentine’s Cream Cheese Butter Mints are irresistibly creamy, delicately flavored, and effortlessly charming. Whether you’re sharing them with a special someone or gifting them to friends, these delightful mints are sure to make hearts flutter.
Why You’ll Love Valentine’s Cream Cheese Mints
These mints are a delightful combination of rich cream cheese, smooth butter, and a touch of peppermint, creating a perfectly balanced, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Furthermore, they are incredibly versatile and easy to love. Here’s why they’ll quickly become your favorite Valentine’s treat:
To begin with, they are completely customizable, allowing you to experiment with your favorite flavors and colors to make them uniquely yours. Moreover, they require only simple ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry.
In addition, they are kid-friendly, making them a fun and engaging activity to share with children. Little ones will enjoy helping with shaping and decorating the mints. Finally, they are ideal for gifting, as you can pack them in adorable containers to create a thoughtful and heartfelt Valentine’s Day present.
Ingredients of Valentine’s Cream Cheese Mints
Here’s everything you’ll need to create these charming mints:
- 🧀 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 🥟 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ☕ 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 🍬 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (or your favorite flavor)
- 🎨 Food coloring (pink, red, or any desired Valentine’s colors)
- 🫖 Granulated sugar (for rolling)
Necessary Tools
Before starting, gather these essential tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Fork or heart-shaped cookie cutter
- Airtight container for storage
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Make this recipe your own with these creative ideas:
- Flavor Variations: Swap peppermint extract for vanilla, almond, or lemon extract for a different taste.
- Color Alternatives: Additionally, use pastel shades for a springtime vibe or bold reds for a dramatic Valentine’s look.
- Decorative Touches: Moreover, add edible glitter, sprinkles, or drizzle with melted chocolate.
Step-by-Step Instructions of Valentine’s Cream Cheese Mints
Follow these detailed steps to craft the perfect batch of Valentine’s Cream Cheese Butter Mints:
1. Prepare the Mint Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Then, add the peppermint extract and mix until fully incorporated.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Continue until the dough is stiff and no longer sticky.
2. Add Food Coloring
Divide the dough into equal portions based on the number of colors you plan to use.
Then, add a few drops of food coloring to each portion. Knead gently until the color is evenly distributed.
3. Shape the Mints
Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll them into marble-sized balls.
After that, roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
Flatten the balls gently with a fork or shape them into hearts using your fingers or a cookie cutter.
4. Set the Mints
Arrange the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
Then, allow them to set at room temperature for 24 hours to firm up, or refrigerate them for quicker setting.
5. Store and Serve
Transfer the mints to an airtight container, layering parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.
Finally, serve and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success of Valentine’s Cream Cheese Mints
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened before mixing to achieve a smooth dough.
- Additionally, use gel food coloring for vibrant shades without adding too much moisture.
- If the dough becomes sticky while shaping, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these mints with a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy Valentine’s treat.
- Furthermore, use them as edible decorations on cakes or cupcakes.
- Additionally, package them in small boxes or jars tied with ribbon for thoughtful gifts.
For another delightful Valentine’s treat, try these Valentine Biscuits Shortbread from Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy—perfectly buttery and irresistibly charming!
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Keep the mints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Not applicable as these are best enjoyed fresh or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information of Valentine’s Cream Cheese Mints
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value per serving (1 mint):
- Calories: 12
- Total Fat: 0.6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 1.6g
- Sugars: 1.5g
- Protein: 0.1g
FAQs
1. Can I freeze these mints?
Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
2. Can I make these without cream cheese?
Cream cheese is essential for the creamy texture, but you can try a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.
3. How long do they take to set?
Allow 24 hours at room temperature for the best results, though refrigeration can speed up the process.
4. Can I use natural food coloring?
Absolutely! Powdered or liquid natural food coloring works well.
5. What if my dough is too sticky?
Add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough reaches the desired consistency.
Conclusion
These Valentine’s Cream Cheese Butter Mints are undoubtedly the perfect way to add a homemade and heartfelt touch to your celebrations. Not only do they feature a creamy texture, but they also offer customizable flavors and a delightful appearance that make them a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you are preparing them for a loved one or simply treating yourself, these mints are, without a doubt, a labor of love that everyone will genuinely appreciate.
Make your Valentine’s Day even more fun with this playful Valentine Tic-Tac-Toe Snack, a creative and delicious treat for all ages!
Valentine’s Cream Cheese Butter Mints
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- - Sifter
- Parchment paper
- Heart-shaped cookie cutter (optional)
Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract or preferred flavor
- Food coloring pink, red, or desired Valentine's colors
- Granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in peppermint extract.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well until a stiff, non-sticky dough forms.
- Color the Dough
- Divide the dough into portions based on desired colors.
- Add a few drops of food coloring to each portion and knead until evenly distributed.
- Shape the Mints
- Roll small pieces of dough into marble-sized balls.
- Coat each ball with granulated sugar.
- Flatten balls gently with a fork or shape into hearts using fingers or a small heart-shaped cutter.
- Set the Mints
- Arrange mints in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Let them set at room temperature for 24 hours, or refrigerate for quicker setting.
- Store and Serve
- Store in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between mints to prevent sticking.
- Serve and enjoy as a sweet Valentine’s Day treat!
Notes
Swap peppermint extract for vanilla, almond, or any preferred flavoring.
Refrigeration sets the mints faster but may slightly alter the texture.
