Description

Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints are delightful, homemade candies combining the creamy richness of cream cheese and butter with the bright, fresh flavor of orange zest and extract. These smooth, bite-sized mints have a subtle citrus aroma, a soft yet firm texture, and a charming waffle-like pattern on top. Easy to prepare without baking, they make perfect treats for holidays, parties, or everyday enjoyment.

Ingredients

Scale

Cream Cheese Base

1 tbsp butter, softened
4 oz cream cheese, room temperature (Philadelphia brand preferred)

Flavoring

1/2 tsp orange extract
1 tsp grated orange peel (freshly zested)
1–2 drops orange gel coloring (Wilton brand recommended)

Sweetener

4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients and Mise en Place: Zest fresh orange peel to capture the bright citrus oils and flavor. Sift confectioners’ sugar through a fine mesh to remove lumps. Set both aside. Ensure cream cheese and butter are at room temperature (about 70°F) for smooth blending.
Blend Cream Cheese and Butter Base: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon for 1-2 minutes until smooth and creamy with no streaks, creating an emulsified fat base for even flavor distribution.
Incorporate Flavor and Color: Add orange extract and freshly grated orange zest to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until fully combined and smooth, about 30 seconds. Add 1-2 drops of orange gel coloring and mix well until the color is uniform, avoiding excess moisture.
Build the Dough with Gradual Sugar Addition: Add sifted confectioners’ sugar in three parts: start with 1 cup, mix smooth; add 1.5 cups, mix again; then add remaining sugar. Stir thoroughly after each addition. The mixture will transform into a thick, moldable dough. Check firmness by squeezing a small piece between fingers—it should hold together without being crumbly or sticky.
Shape and Form the Mints: Pinch off pieces of dough and roll into 1/2-inch balls between your palms. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 1 inch apart. Gently flatten each ball with the back of a fork to create a waffle-like texture without crushing.
Chill and Set: Refrigerate the arranged mints on the baking sheet for 1 hour to firm up and set their shape. After chilling, transfer to an airtight container. Store refrigerated for up to 2 weeks or at room temperature for a few days if kept cool.

Notes

Use fresh orange zest for the best citrus flavor instead of dried peel.
Sift confectioners’ sugar to avoid lumps and ensure smooth texture.
Room temperature cream cheese and butter blend more smoothly for the perfect base.
Gradual addition of sugar prevents dryness pockets and ensures uniform dough consistency.
Orange gel coloring is preferred over liquid to avoid altering dough moisture balance.
If dough feels sticky, add a little more confectioners’ sugar until moldable.
Refrigerate mints to help them firm up for easier handling and storage longevity.
Store mints in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Candy
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Keywords: orange cream cheese mints, homemade mints, cream cheese candy, orange candy, no bake candy, holiday treats