Name: Delicious Christmas Mint Candy: Easy No-Bake Holiday Treats
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened); 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Softened); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Sifted); 1 tsp Peppermint Extract; 1 bottle Gel Food Coloring (red and green) (Use as needed)

As the aroma of peppermint fills the air, it’s impossible not to feel that delightful holiday spirit creeping in. This Christmas, I’m so thrilled to share my creamy Christmas Mint Candy recipe, a treat that’s both easy to whip up and irresistibly festive. With just five simple ingredients, you’ll create melt-in-your-mouth sensations that dazzle on dessert tables and make perfect gifts for friends and family. Not only do these no-bake candies come together in a flash, but their customizable colors and flavors mean you can get creative, whether it’s vibrant reds and greens for Christmas or pastel hues for springtime celebrations. Ready to add some cheer to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this sweet adventure together!

Why Is This Candy So Irresistible?

Simplicity at its finest: With just five ingredients, this Christmas Mint Candy is an optimal choice for busy holiday bakers. Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The creamy combination of cream cheese and butter creates a delightful experience in every bite. Versatile colors and flavors: Customize with different shades and extracts to suit any occasion. Perfect for gifting: These candies make charming presents for friends and teachers during the festive season. Want more delightful no-bake options? Check out our other tasty holiday recipes that will brighten your celebrations!

Christmas Mint Candy Ingredients

Get ready to craft delightful no-bake treats!

For the Candy Base

Cream Cheese – This rich, creamy base must be softened for easy mixing.
Butter – Unsalted butter adds richness and ensures you control the flavor.
Powdered Sugar – Sift it to prevent clumping and achieve the perfect sweetness.

For Flavoring

Peppermint Extract – This classic mint flavor is essential for that holiday vibe; feel free to experiment with other extracts!

For Festive Appearance

Gel Food Coloring (red and green) – Use these for your Christmas Mint Candy, but don’t hesitate to swap colors for other occasions!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Mint Candy

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base
Begin by allowing 8 ounces of cream cheese and 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to soften at room temperature for 30 minutes. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until it’s smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining, creating the perfect base for your delightful Christmas Mint Candy.

Step 2: Add Sweetness
Gradually mix in 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar into the creamy base. Continue mixing on medium-low speed until fully incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing. Once combined, the mixture should be thick and spreadable, providing a sweet foundation for your festive mints.

Step 3: Flavor the Mixture
Next, add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the candy mixture. Stir until the extract is fully integrated, infusing the base with a refreshing mint flavor. Follow this by adding the remaining powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low to medium speed until all sugar is combined and the mixture is smooth and thick, ready for coloring.

Step 4: Divide and Color the Mixture
Now, divide the prepared mint mixture into three equal portions. Leave one portion plain, then add a few drops of gel food coloring to one portion, mixing until you achieve a vibrant green shade. Repeat this for the second portion using red gel food coloring. This step will give your Christmas Mint Candy its festive appearance, making them perfect for the holiday season.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover each colored portion of the candy mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours. This will allow the mints to firm up, making them easier to shape. As they chill, prepare your workspace, ensuring you have a powdered-sugar-dusted surface ready for rolling your delightful quantities into festive shapes.

Step 6: Shape the Candies
Once chilled, take a tablespoon-sized portion of each colored dough. Roll them into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Then, place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten each ball gently using a fork dusted with powdered sugar, creating lovely mint shapes that will be the highlight of your Christmas Mint Candy display.

Step 7: Let Them Harden
Allow the shaped mints to sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours until they harden. This crucial step ensures your Christmas Mint Candy develops that melt-in-your-mouth texture and sturdy form. If needed, you can refrigerate them briefly to firm them up further before serving or gifting.

Step 8: Serve and Store
Once hardened, your delicious Christmas Mint Candies are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them on a decorative platter or store them in an airtight container with parchment paper layers to keep them from sticking together. These treats will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them perfect for holiday snacking or as sweet gifts.

Christmas Mint Candy Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful treats and make them uniquely yours!

Flavor Swap: Substitute peppermint extract with almond or orange extract for a refreshing twist.
Experimenting with flavors can open up a whole new world of taste for your Candy!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use softened coconut cream instead of cream cheese for a delightful dairy-free version.
This swap adds a rich texture and tropical flair, great for guests with dietary preferences!
Colorful Creations: Change up the gel food coloring for pastel shades or your favorite sports team colors for fun events.
Your mints can become the star of any party while still delivering that delicious flavor!
Crunchy Add-ins: Fold in finely chopped nuts or crushed candy canes for added texture and festive crunch.
Adding these elements creates a delightful surprise with each bite, making your Candy even more enjoyable.
Spicy Twist: A few drops of cinnamon or ginger extract can be added for a warm, spicy variation on the classic mint.
This unexpected flavor combination could become a new holiday favorite for you and your loved ones!
Choco-Mint Blend: Dip your formed mints in melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.
This addition of chocolate pairs beautifully with the fresh mint flavor, creating a gourmet experience.
Nut-Free Option: Ensure your candies are nut-free safe by using sunflower seed butter in place of any butter.
This still maintains that creamy texture while accommodating those with allergies.
Low-Sugar Version: Experiment with sugar alternatives like Stevia or erythritol in the powdered sugar for a lower-calorie treat.
Sweetening without all the calories allows everyone to indulge guilt-free during the holidays!

Feel inspired? You can check out more delightful concepts in our holiday recipes that are perfect for any celebration!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Mint Candies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to get ahead during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the candy mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract as directed, then divide and color the dough. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to shape and finalize. When it’s time to serve, scoop, roll, and flatten the mints as instructed, letting them sit at room temperature for about 4 hours to harden. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy the same festive, melt-in-your-mouth delight with minimal last-minute effort!

Expert Tips for Christmas Mint Candy

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smoother blending process, which helps achieve that creamy texture.
Avoid Clumping: Always sift your powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture. This will prevent clumps in your Christmas Mint Candy, ensuring a velvety finish.
Coloring Techniques: When adding gel food coloring, start with a small amount and gradually mix in more until you reach the desired hue. This approach helps avoid overly dark shades.
Firming Up: If your mints feel too soft after resting, let them sit at room temperature longer, or refrigerate briefly to achieve the perfect firm texture.
Storage Secrets: To prevent sticking during storage, use parchment paper between layers of mints in an airtight container. This simple tip keeps your Christmas Mint Candy looking beautiful!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Mint Candy

Fridge: Keep your Christmas Mint Candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This will help retain their freshness and creamy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the mints for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these candies, as they are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing treat.

Serving: If frozen, allow the Christmas Mint Candy to thaw in the fridge or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

What to Serve with Creamy Christmas Mint Candy

Embrace the holiday spirit with these delightful treats that are perfect for sharing and pairing with festive favorites.

Rich Hot Chocolate: A cozy cup of hot chocolate enhances the minty sweetness, creating a warm and festive delight. The rich chocolate contrasts beautifully with the fresh mint flavor for the perfect pairing.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy vanilla ice cream serves as an excellent balance to the vibrant minty bites. The smooth texture complements the candy’s melt-in-your-mouth quality, providing a satisfying contrast.
Spiced Gingerbread Cookies: The warm spices in gingerbread cookies offer a pleasant kick that pairs beautifully with the refreshing burst of peppermint. Together, they create a classic holiday dessert table that feels complete.
Homemade Eggnog: Serve these mint candies alongside a glass of creamy eggnog for a festive beverage option. The rich, nutmeg-laden drink is elevated by the artisanal minty delights, making each sip even more special.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in rich chocolate adds a delightful texture that complements the softness of the mints. The contrasting flavors of sweet and salty create a party in your mouth!
Fruit Platter: A colorful array of fresh, seasonal fruits brings brightness to your dessert spread. The natural sweetness of the fruit provides a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of the rich Christmas Mint Candy.
Nutty Biscotti: These crunchy treats offer a satisfying bite and a nutty flavor that rounds out the silky mint candies. Pairing them creates an elegant dessert experience that guests will adore.
Peppermint Tea: For a lighter option, a warm cup of peppermint tea speaks to the minty essence of the candies. The soothing hot beverage brings comfort and complements the festive theme beautifully.
Holiday Cheeseboard: Combine a selection of cheeses, crackers, and the mint candies for a fun holiday cheeseboard. The creaminess of the cheese alongside the sweetness of the mints creates an unforgettable flavor balance.

Christmas Mint Candy Recipe FAQs

What type of cream cheese should I use for the Christmas Mint Candy?
Absolutely! It’s best to use full-fat cream cheese for a rich, creamy texture. Make sure it’s softened, as this helps it blend smoothly with the butter and sugar. You’ll want it at room temperature, which typically takes about 30 minutes after removing it from the fridge.

How should I store the Christmas Mint Candy, and how long will it last?
For optimal freshness, store your Christmas Mint Candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 1 week. If you’re looking to enjoy them longer, I recommend the freezer option!

Can I freeze Christmas Mint Candy, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Mint Candy, first place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer the candies to an airtight container, layering parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. These treats can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just allow them to thaw in the fridge or at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

What should I do if my mints are too soft after resting?
If your mints are soft and not holding their shape, don’t worry! Simply let them sit out at room temperature for a while longer, typically an hour or so. Alternatively, you can pop them in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to firm them up. This helps them achieve that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Are these candies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, the Christmas Mint Candy recipe is nut-free, making it a safe option for those with nut allergies. However, it’s always important to double-check the labels on your ingredients to ensure none of the products were processed in facilities that handle nuts, especially if you’re gifting them to others.

Can I use different extract flavors for this recipe?
Very! While this recipe traditionally uses peppermint extract for that holiday flavor, feel free to get creative! Almond, vanilla, or orange extracts are wonderful alternatives that can give your Christmas Mint Candy a unique twist, perfect for any occasion.