Description
These Melt-in-Your-Mouth Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints combine creamy full-fat cream cheese with the zesty brightness of fresh orange peel and orange extract. Sweetened with confectioners’ sugar and lightly buttery, these mints are soft yet firm, perfect for a refreshing citrusy treat that melts effortlessly on your tongue.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Butter (softened, unsalted for better control over sweetness)
- 4 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature, full-fat for creamy texture)
- 1/2 tsp Orange Extract (infuses with citrus flavor)
- 1 tsp Grated Orange Peel (freshly zested for enhanced flavor)
- 1-2 drops Orange Gel Coloring (optional, preferred over liquid for vibrant color)
- 4 cups Confectioners’ Sugar (sifted to avoid lumps)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by sifting your confectioners’ sugar to remove any lumps and zest the orange to gather fresh grated peel for enhanced flavor.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring an even texture.
- Add Flavorings: Gently mix in the orange extract and freshly grated orange peel to infuse the cream cheese mixture with bright citrus notes.
- Incorporate Sugar: Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar in three additions, mixing thoroughly after each addition to create a firm dough without any lumps.
- Shape Mints: Roll the dough into 1/2-inch balls, then flatten them into small discs on parchment paper to form the classic mint shape.
- Chill: Place the shaped mints in the refrigerator for 1 hour to allow them to firm up properly.
- Store: Once set, transfer the mints to an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent drying out.
Notes
- Using unsalted butter helps control sweetness and prevents the mints from becoming overly salty.
- Full-fat cream cheese creates a creamier and richer texture compared to low-fat versions.
- Orange gel coloring is optional but recommended for vibrant and appealing mints without altering texture.
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother final product.
- Store mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
