There’s a special kind of joy in homemade candy—tiny, flavorful morsels that melt in your mouth and leave everyone asking for the recipe. One of my favorite indulgences is Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints, a vibrant and refreshing treat that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with a bright burst of orange. Unlike store-bought mints, these are soft, velvety, and carry a natural citrus flavor that feels both festive and sophisticated.
I first made these mints during a holiday gathering, and the moment I popped one into my mouth, I knew they would become a staple in my kitchen. They’re perfect for gifting, parties, or just a quiet treat with a cup of tea. And the best part? Despite their decadent taste, they’re incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying candy-making for the first time, these mints are sure to impress.
Recipe Overview
Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints are soft, creamy, and citrus-scented candies that combine cream cheese, butter, and sugar with fresh orange zest and extract. Lightly colored and perfectly bite-sized, these mints are chilled to set, making them a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s both festive and elegant.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s everything you need to make this delightful candy, along with tips to get the perfect texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature (Philadelphia brand preferred)
- ½ tsp orange extract
- 1 tsp grated orange peel, freshly zested for best flavor
- 1-2 drops orange gel coloring (Wilton recommended)
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Ingredients
Start by zesting a fresh orange to get 1 teaspoon of grated orange peel. Sift 4 cups of confectioners’ sugar to remove any lumps, ensuring a smooth dough. Make sure both your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature—this is key for achieving a creamy, even consistency.
Pro Tip: Fresh zest provides a bright, natural citrus flavor that pre-packaged zest cannot replicate.
2. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Stir for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This creates the base for your mints, giving them their signature soft texture.
3. Add Orange Flavor
Add the orange extract and freshly grated orange zest to the cream cheese mixture. Mix for about 30 seconds until fully combined. Add 1-2 drops of gel coloring and stir until the color is uniform, giving your mints a festive, inviting look.
Pro Tip: Gel coloring is preferred over liquid to avoid altering the dough consistency.
4. Incorporate Confectioners’ Sugar
Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar in three portions. Mix well after each addition until the dough becomes thick and moldable. The sugar is what gives these mints their firm, yet creamy structure.
5. Shape the Mints
Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll into ½-inch balls. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each. Flatten each ball gently using the back of a fork for a classic mint shape.
Pro Tip: For a decorative touch, you can use a small cookie stamp or simply leave them round and smooth.
6. Chill and Store
Place the mints in the refrigerator to firm up. Once set, transfer them to an airtight container to preserve freshness. These mints will hold well for several weeks, making them ideal for gifting or preparing ahead of time.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Flavor Twists
While orange is classic, you can experiment with other extracts like lemon, lime, or vanilla for a unique flavor profile.
2. Color Variations
Change the gel coloring to match holidays or themes—green for St. Patrick’s Day, red for Christmas, or pastel shades for Easter.
3. Vegan Options
Replace the butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives. Coconut cream cheese and vegan butter can yield a similarly creamy texture.
4. Decorative Touches
Roll mints in finely grated coconut, sprinkles, or edible glitter for an elegant presentation.
5. Gift-Worthy Presentation
Package in small boxes or cellophane bags tied with ribbons. They make excellent party favors or homemade gifts for friends and family.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage:
- Keep the mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.
- For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months, thawing in the fridge before serving.
Serving Ideas:
- Serve alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Include them in holiday candy platters or dessert trays for gatherings.
- Wrap individually in wax paper for party favors or stocking stuffers.
Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints are a simple yet impressive treat that brings the perfect balance of creamy texture and bright citrus flavor. Easy to make, visually appealing, and wonderfully flavorful, these mints are ideal for holidays, special occasions, or any time you want a refreshing homemade sweet. The combination of cream cheese, butter, sugar, and fresh orange zest creates a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible.
Whether you’re making them for gifts, parties, or a personal indulgence, these mints are a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite in your candy repertoire. With minimal ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a batch of these elegant, flavorful treats that look and taste like they came from a professional confectioner.
FAQs
1. Can I make these mints ahead of time?
Yes! They can be made a few days in advance and stored in the fridge until needed.
2. Can I freeze Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints?
Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
3. What’s the best orange extract to use?
A high-quality extract, such as LorAnn or McCormick, ensures a bright and authentic orange flavor.
4. Can I use powdered sugar instead of confectioners’ sugar?
It’s best to use sifted confectioners’ sugar as it provides a smoother texture. Regular powdered sugar may not yield the same creamy consistency.
5. How long do the mints last?
Stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they can last up to 3 weeks.
Make Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints at home—creamy, citrusy, and melt-in-your-mouth. Perfect for gifts, parties, or festive treats with simple ingredients.
