Why You’ll Love These Delicious 3 Ingredient Cream Cheese Mints
These Delicious 3 Ingredient Cream Cheese Mints are a nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for holidays, weddings, baby showers, or just because. Soft, creamy, and refreshing with the perfect balance of sweetness and mint, they’re everything you want in a homemade candy—with almost no effort.
Even better? You only need three simple ingredients, and there’s no baking involved. These homemade soft mints are incredibly easy to make, so they’re a great dessert project for beginners, kids, or anyone short on time. Whether you’re throwing a party or prepping for the holidays, this simple candy recipe will instantly elevate your dessert table.
Looking for more fun party-ready treats? Try our Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles or colorful Birthday Cake Pops for festive flair!
What Are Cream Cheese Mints and Who Are They Perfect For?
Cream cheese mints, also known as mint melts or party mints, are old-fashioned candies that are smooth, creamy, and packed with peppermint flavor. Traditionally served at weddings, showers, and church events, they’re now popping up at baby gender reveals, Christmas cookie platters, and even as dinner mints recipes at modern tables.
They’re perfect for:
- Busy moms who love a MomOnTimeout recipe
- Hosts seeking an easy, affordable dessert for a crowd
- Anyone craving a retro treat with a modern twist
- Kids looking for a hands-on, mess-free dessert project
- Fans of recipes that use cream cheese in desserts
Need more ideas for festive food? Try our sweet Apple Cider Whoopie Pies or fun Jack-O-Lantern Cookies for seasonal fun.
Ingredients Needed to Make Cream Mints
As the name promises, this is a 3-ingredient recipe. Simple, classic, and crowd-pleasing.
- 4 oz (1/2 block) cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
Optional:
- Food coloring (gel or liquid)
- Sprinkles or sanding sugar for decoration
- Candy molds for shaping
That’s it! These cream mints are naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for dairy-free diets with cream cheese alternatives.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Easy Homemade Mints
One of the best things about these homemade soft mints is that you don’t need any special equipment. Here’s what you’ll use:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Fork or toothpick (for shaping or decorating)
- Parchment paper
- Airtight container for storage
Candy molds or silicone trays are optional but make shaping faster and more uniform. If you love quick desserts like these, don’t miss our 3-Ingredient Pencil Cookies—they’re just as easy!
How to Make Delicious 3 Ingredient Cream Cheese Mints – Step-by-Step Guide
Making your own mint melts is surprisingly simple. Just follow these steps:
- Soften the cream cheese: Leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Softening ensures smooth mixing without lumps.
- Beat cream cheese and peppermint: In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese and peppermint extract until completely smooth.
- Add powdered sugar gradually: Add powdered sugar 1/2 cup at a time. Mix on low at first, then medium-high until a thick dough forms. It should be pliable like soft playdough—not sticky.
- Color your mints (optional): Divide the dough and add a few drops of food coloring to each portion. Knead until evenly distributed.
- Shape the mints:
- Roll into small balls and press with a fork.
- Or roll out and use candy molds or cookie cutters for fun shapes.
- You can even roll them into ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Let them dry: Place shaped mints on parchment paper and let them air dry at room temperature for 12–24 hours to firm up.
- Store and enjoy: Once dry, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Need more dessert hacks easy like this? Our Pumpkin Maple Cookies are quick, cozy, and full of fall flavor.
Tips for Making Perfect Soft Cream Cheese Mints Every Time
These tips will guarantee your mints come out soft, smooth, and perfectly minty:
- Use room temperature cream cheese—cold cream cheese will result in lumps.
- Add sugar gradually to avoid powder explosions.
- Don’t overmix—once the dough is pliable, stop mixing.
- If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of powdered sugar at a time.
- Dry thoroughly—this helps them hold their shape and texture.
Want another quick candy idea? Try our festive Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies for a decadent seasonal treat.
Flavor Variations and Color Ideas for Every Occasion
Although peppermint is traditional, there are many fun twists you can try:
Flavor Ideas:
- Spearmint extract for a milder taste
- Vanilla or almond extract for wedding mints
- Coconut extract for a tropical touch
- Cinnamon oil for holiday spice
Color Combinations:
- Red + green for Christmas
- Pastel pink or blue for baby showers
- Gold + white for weddings
- Orange + black for Halloween
- Lavender for Easter or spring teas
These party mints are perfect for dressing up any dessert table.
Creative Ways to Serve and Display Party Mints at Events
The fun isn’t just in making these Delicious 3 Ingredient Cream Cheese Mints—it’s in serving them! Here are some ideas:
- Gift jars: Package in mason jars tied with ribbon for party favors.
- Tiered trays: Display with other bite-sized desserts like Pumpkin Cake Pops.
- Candy bags: Scoop into clear treat bags for party guests.
- Holiday platters: Add to your Christmas or Thanksgiving dessert board.
- Appetizer trays: Place alongside Ghost Wafer Cookies or Birthday Cake Pops.
Storage Tips: How to Keep Your Homemade Mints Fresh and Soft
To keep your cream mints soft, fresh, and ready for any occasion:
- Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks
- Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking
- Freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge before serving
- Avoid direct heat or sun exposure, which may cause melting
Planning ahead for a party? Make a large batch and freeze different colors for future events.
Mistakes to Avoid When Making Mint Melts at Home
Don’t let these common mistakes ruin your batch:
- Using cold cream cheese—results in lumps
- Adding too much extract—can make mints taste bitter or medicinal
- Not letting mints dry properly—they may stick or melt in storage
- Overworking the dough—this causes toughness
With just a bit of attention, your dinner mints recipe will turn out beautifully every time.
When to Serve 3 Ingredient Cream Cheese Mints: Occasions and Pairings
These soft candies are extremely versatile and fit a wide range of events:
- Weddings & bridal showers
- Baby showers
- Birthday parties
- Holiday dinners as a sweet end
- Valentine’s Day in heart shapes
- Thanksgiving next to Pumpkin Juice
Pair them with hot tea, cocoa, or a light fruit salad. They also sit well next to desserts like our Apple Rolo Pretzel or Strawberry Coffee Creamer for added sweetness.
Why This 3 Ingredient Cream Cheese Mints recipe is the Ultimate Dessert Hack
This is truly one of the easiest dessert hacks out there. With just 3 ingredients, no baking, and endless customizations, this recipe fits:
- Busy weeknights
- Last-minute parties
- DIY gifting
- School projects or bake sales
- Minimal cleanup desserts
If you’re into clever kitchen shortcuts, try pairing this with our Pancake Donuts or 3-Ingredient Pencil Cookies for a fun, fast treat lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 3 Ingredient Cream Cheese Mints
Can I use food coloring?
Yes! Gel food coloring works best and keeps the texture smooth.
How long do these mints last?
Up to 2 weeks refrigerated or 3 months frozen.
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Stick with plain for best results. Flavored varieties may affect texture and taste.
Do I have to let them dry?
Yes, drying helps them firm up so they don’t stick together.
Can I make them without a mixer?
Yes, but mixing by hand takes more effort. A hand mixer is best for smooth dough.
Conclusion + Share and Save This 3 Ingredient Cream Cheese Mints
These Delicious 3 Ingredient Cream Cheese Mints are an unbeatable blend of sweet, minty, creamy goodness. Whether you’re creating a holiday spread, preparing wedding favors, or just craving a nostalgic candy, this recipe checks every box. They’re incredibly easy, highly customizable, and guaranteed to impress guests of all ages.
So next time you’re short on time but need something sweet and special, whip up a batch of these homemade soft mints—and watch them disappear! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends, save it for your next party, and subscribe to our blog at RecipeSize.com for more simple candy ideas and no-bake dessert hacks.
PrintDelicious 3 Ingredient Cream Cheese Mints
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes plus drying time
- Yield: 40–50 mints 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious 3 Ingredient Cream Cheese Mints are soft, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth candies that are perfect for holidays, weddings, baby showers, or anytime you crave something sweet. With just cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract, these no-bake party mints are easy to make, colorful, and beautifully nostalgic. Great for gifting, dessert trays, or festive gatherings!
Ingredients
- 4 oz (1/2 block) cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Optional: Food coloring (gel or liquid), sprinkles or sanding sugar for decoration, candy molds for shaping
Instructions
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes until soft.
- Mix with Peppermint: In a bowl, beat cream cheese and peppermint extract until smooth.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar 1/2 cup at a time until a thick, pliable dough forms.
- Color (Optional): Divide dough and knead in food coloring if desired.
- Shape: Roll into small balls and flatten with a fork, or use candy molds for decorative shapes.
- Dry: Place on parchment paper and let air dry for 12–24 hours to firm up.
- Store and Serve: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for the smoothest texture.
- Add sugar gradually to control consistency.
- For best results, dry thoroughly before storing to prevent sticking.
- Spearmint, vanilla, or almond extracts make great flavor variations.
- Color by occasion — red and green for Christmas, pastels for baby showers, or gold for weddings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 mints
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 3mg




