Soft, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, these Valentine’s Cream Cheese Butter Mints are the perfect sweet treat for gift-giving, dessert platters, or just indulging in something special! Infused with vanilla and a hint of peppermint, these adorable mints are easy to make and perfectly festive for Valentine’s Day.
I love how customizable these little treats are—you can make them pink, red, or classic white, shape them into hearts, rounds, or squares, and even add edible pearls for an elegant touch. Whether you gift them in a cute jar or serve them after a romantic dinner, these butter mints will be a delightful addition to your Valentine's Day celebration!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Easy to Make – Just mix, roll, and let them set!
✔️ Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture – Smooth, creamy, and absolutely addictive.
✔️ Perfect for Gifts – Package in cute tins or jars for a homemade Valentine’s Day present.
✔️ Customizable – Change colors, flavors, or decorations to suit your style.
✔️ Make-Ahead Friendly – Stays fresh for up to 2 weeks!
The Recipe
Ingredients
For the Butter Mints:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened – Gives the mints a rich, creamy texture.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds smoothness and enhances the flavor.
- 4 cups powdered sugar – Creates the perfect sweet and melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, sweet flavor.
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract (optional) – Gives a refreshing minty taste.
- Gel food coloring (pink, red, and white) – For a festive Valentine’s look.
- White sugar pearls (for decoration, optional) – Adds a touch of elegance.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add vanilla extract (and peppermint extract if using), mixing well.
- Gradually beat in powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the mixture becomes smooth, thick, and pliable like dough.
2️⃣ Color & Shape the Mints
- Divide the dough into three equal portions.
- Tint one portion pink, one red, and leave one white.
- Roll each portion into ½-inch balls, then flatten slightly with your fingers.
- Alternatively, press the dough into silicone heart molds for a perfect Valentine’s shape.
- Decorate with white sugar pearls for an extra fancy touch!
3️⃣ Let Them Set
- Place the mints on a wax paper-lined baking sheet.
- Let them air dry at room temperature for 24 hours so they firm up.
4️⃣ Store & Serve
- Once fully set, transfer the mints to an airtight container.
- Store at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: These mints are perfect for serving as a post-dinner treat, party favor, or Valentine’s Day gift.
- Storage: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerate for a firmer texture.
- Freezing Option: Freeze mints for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Helpful Tips & Variations
✅ Use Different Shapes – Heart molds, small squares, or classic round mints.
✅ Make Them Extra Minty – Add 1 teaspoon peppermint extract for a stronger flavor.
✅ Try Other Flavors – Substitute peppermint with almond, lemon, or raspberry extract.
✅ Add a Chocolate Twist – Dip half of each mint in melted chocolate for a fun flavor contrast.
✅ Glittery Mints – Lightly brush with edible glitter or sprinkle with coarse sugar before drying.
frequently asked question
1. Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?
Yes, but gel food coloring is more concentrated, so you won’t need as much and it won’t affect the dough’s consistency.
2. How do I make these without peppermint extract?
Just skip the peppermint extract or replace it with extra vanilla extract. You can also try flavors like almond or lemon.
3. Can I speed up the drying process?
No, air drying is essential for the texture. Refrigerating them won’t help them dry faster—it just makes them cold.
4. Why are my mints sticky?
This can happen if the dough has too much moisture. Add a little more powdered sugar until it’s firm but still soft.
5. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different. If using salted butter, reduce the powdered sugar by 1-2 tablespoons to balance the taste.
Final Thoughts
These Valentine’s Cream Cheese Butter Mints are a simple, sweet, and thoughtful treat that’s perfect for gifting, serving at parties, or just enjoying yourself! With their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and festive Valentine’s colors, they’re sure to impress.
Make a batch, share the love, and enjoy every creamy, buttery bite!
Valentine's Cream Cheese Butter Mints
Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract optional
- Gel food coloring pink, red, and white
- White sugar pearls for decoration
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add vanilla extract (and peppermint extract if using), mixing well.
- Gradually beat in powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the mixture becomes smooth, thick, and pliable like dough.
2️⃣ Color & Shape the Mints
- Divide the dough into three equal portions.
- Tint one portion pink, one red, and leave one white.
- Roll each portion into ½-inch balls, then flatten slightly with your fingers.
- Alternatively, press the dough into silicone heart molds for a perfect Valentine’s shape.
- Decorate with white sugar pearls for an extra fancy touch!
3️⃣ Let Them Set
- Place the mints on a wax paper-lined baking sheet.
- Let them air dry at room temperature for 24 hours so they firm up.
4️⃣ Store & Serve
- Once fully set, transfer the mints to an airtight container.
- Store at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
