Growing up, my grandma’s famous Orange Cream Cheese Mints were always the talk of the town. Every holiday, family gathering, or community event, you could count on her to show up with a tray of these irresistible little gems. And let me tell you, they were always the first to disappear! The delicate balance of sweet and tangy, the melt-in-your-mouth texture, and the vibrant citrus aroma – it’s no wonder they were such a hit. Whenever I’d sneak a few before the guests arrived, I’d have to fight the urge to gobble them all up.
Why This Orange Cream Cheese Mints Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Orange Cream Cheese Mints
These Orange Cream Cheese Mints are truly a labor of love, but the end result is so worth it. The secret lies in the perfect combination of rich cream cheese, sweet powdered sugar, and the bright, zesty flavor of fresh orange zest. When you take that first bite, the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the burst of citrus will have you hooked. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, with a total prep and assembly time of just 45 minutes.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The foundation of these mints, providing a luscious, velvety texture.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Balancing the tartness of the cream cheese and giving the mints their signature sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest: This is the star ingredient that infuses the mints with their bright, refreshing flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle background note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to bring out all the other flavors and prevent the mints from being overly sweet.
Step-by-Step Orange Cream Cheese Mints Instructions
Preparing Your Orange Cream Cheese Mints
With a total time of just 45 minutes, these Orange Cream Cheese Mints come together quickly and easily. All you’ll need is a stand mixer or a hand mixer, a couple of mixing bowls, and a pastry bag with a small round tip. Let’s get started!
1- Begin by placing the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese on medium-high speed until it’s light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the whipped cream cheese, beating on low speed at first to incorporate it. Once the sugar is mostly combined, increase the speed to medium-high and beat for another 3-4 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3- Next, add the grated orange zest and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat on medium speed until the zest is evenly distributed and the flavors are well incorporated, about 1 minute.
4- Finally, sprinkle in the salt and give the mixture one final beat on medium speed until everything is well combined. The final consistency should be soft, pliable, and easy to work with.
5- Transfer the orange cream cheese mixture to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip. Pipe small, bite-sized mints onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
6- Once all the mints are piped, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the mints to firm up. Then, they’re ready to serve and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
- Make sure your cream cheese is truly softened to room temperature before starting. This will ensure a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the cream cheese to prevent any clumps.
- Grate the orange zest just before using it to maximize the fresh, vibrant flavor.
- Chill the piped mints thoroughly before serving to allow them to set and maintain their shape.
Serving and Storing Your Orange Cream Cheese Mints
Perfect Pairings for Orange Cream Cheese Mints
These Orange Cream Cheese Mints are the perfect bite-sized treat to serve at any gathering, from holiday parties to baby showers to afternoon tea. With 24 servings per batch, they’re great for sharing. Consider serving them alongside a selection of fresh berries, a platter of assorted cookies, or a steaming cup of hot tea or coffee. Their bright, citrusy flavor also pairs beautifully with a crisp glass of white wine or a refreshing sparkling lemonade.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The best part about these mints is that they’re super easy to make ahead and store. Once the mints have been piped and chilled, you can transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 1 week. They also freeze remarkably well – just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Orange Cream Cheese Mints
Creative Orange Cream Cheese Mints Variations
While the classic orange flavor is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to mix things up with these versatile Orange Cream Cheese Mints. Try adding a hint of lemon or lime zest for a citrus medley. For a festive twist, fold in a few drops of food coloring or sprinkle on some holiday-themed sprinkles. You can also swap out the orange zest for other fresh herbs or spices, like rosemary, cinnamon, or even a touch of cardamom.
Making Orange Cream Cheese Mints Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking to make these mints a bit more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the powdered sugar. To make them vegan, swap the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative, like cashew cream or coconut cream cheese. And for a low-carb spin, replace the powdered sugar with an equal amount of granulated erythritol or a monk fruit sweetener.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of citrus zest instead of orange?
A: Absolutely! The orange zest is the star, but you can easily substitute lemon, lime, or grapefruit zest for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to use the same amount, about 1 tablespoon.
Q: How long do these mints take to make start to finish?
A: With a prep time of 15 minutes and a total time of 45 minutes, these Orange Cream Cheese Mints come together quickly. The majority of the time is spent chilling the piped mints in the refrigerator to allow them to set.
Q: Can I make these mints ahead of time?
A: Yes, these mints are perfect for making in advance! They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container.
Q: How many mints does this recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 24 servings of Orange Cream Cheese Mints. The bite-sized portions make them great for sharing at parties or enjoying as a little treat.
Q: What should I do if my mints turn out too soft or sticky?
A: If your mints are coming out too soft or sticky, try adding a bit more powdered sugar to the mixture, about 1/4 cup at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. You can also try chilling the mixture for a bit longer before piping.
Orange Cream Cheese Mints
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 24 servings
Description
Indulge in the delectable flavors of these quick and easy homemade Orange Cream Cheese Mints. Bursting with a zesty orange tang and a creamy, smooth texture, these bite-sized treats are perfect for entertaining, gifting, or enjoying as a refreshing snack.
Ingredients
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
– In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
– Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until well combined.
– Stir in the orange zest, vanilla extract, and salt until fully incorporated.
– Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion the mixture into small, bite-sized balls.
– Refrigerate the mints for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
– Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
– For a more vibrant orange color, you can add a few drops of orange food coloring to the mixture.
– These mints can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 15
- Category: Bites & Finger Foods
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
These Orange Cream Cheese Mints are truly a gift from the citrus gods. With their irresistible flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and easy-to-make simplicity, it’s no wonder they’re a beloved classic. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a little indulgence, these mints are sure to delight. So what are you waiting for? Grab your mixer and get ready to create a refreshing, crowd-pleasing masterpiece!
