Orange Cream Cheese Mints (Print Version)

Soft, citrusy cream cheese mints that melt in your mouth. Ideal for parties and holiday gatherings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cream Cheese Base

01 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

→ Flavor & Sweetness

03 - 1/2 tsp orange extract
04 - 2 1/2–3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
05 - Orange food coloring, as desired

→ Finish

06 - Extra powdered sugar for dusting

# Directions:

01 - Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
02 - Mix in the orange extract and a few drops of orange food coloring until combined.
03 - Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.
04 - Taste the dough and adjust orange extract or food coloring as needed.
05 - Dust your work surface with powdered sugar. Roll the dough into 3/4-inch balls and flatten each gently with a fork or your thumb.
06 - Place mints on a parchment-lined tray, cover, and chill for at least 1 hour until firm.
07 - Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • These little mints come together in under 30 minutes but taste like something from an old-fashioned candy shop
  • The orange flavor is bright and cheerful without being overpowering or artificial
  • They're the perfect make-ahead treat for parties since they actually improve after chilling
02 -
  • The dough will feel sticky at first but keep adding powdered sugar until it's workable
  • Humid days can make the dough stickier so you may need extra sugar
  • These mints must stay refrigerated or they'll become too soft to handle
03 -
  • Wear food-safe gloves when handling the dough to prevent sticking and keep fingerprints minimal
  • If the dough becomes too warm while shaping, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up again