Sweet Orange Cream Cheese is a delightful treat that combines the creamy texture of cream cheese with the refreshing zest of citrus. This recipe for Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints is a no-bake delight, perfect for gatherings and satisfying your sweet cravings. The balance of sweetness and tangy orange flavor makes these mints a refreshing change from traditional desserts. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and learn how to make these delicious mints at home!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Orange Cream Cheese

This Sweet Orange Cream Cheese recipe is not just easy to make; it also packs a punch with its vibrant citrus flavor. Here are some reasons to love it:

Quick and simple: It takes only 15 minutes of prep time.
No baking required: Perfect for those hot days when you want something sweet without turning on the oven.
Kid-friendly: The sweet citrus flavor appeals to both kids and adults.
Great for gatherings: These mints make a delightful addition to any party or gathering.
Versatile: Can be used as a topping or filling for various desserts.
Customizable: Add more zest or coloring for a fun twist.
Vegetarian-friendly: This recipe aligns with a vegetarian diet, making it suitable for many guests.

Ingredients for Sweet Orange Cream Cheese

Gather these items:

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)

How to Make Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Step-by-Step

Step 1: Start by sifting your confectioners’ sugar and zesting the orange.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Gently mix in the orange extract and grated orange peel.
Step 4: Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar in three additions, mixing thoroughly.
Step 5: Roll the dough into 1/2-inch balls and flatten them into discs on parchment paper.
Step 6: Place the mints in the refrigerator for 1 hour to firm up.
Step 7: Once set, transfer the mints to an airtight container.

Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints: 7 Easy Steps to Bliss - Sweet Orange Cream Cheese - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sweet Orange Cream Cheese

Keep these in mind:

Use unsalted butter to control the sweetness better.
For a creamier texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature.
Experiment with the amount of orange zest for a stronger citrus flavor.
Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Ways to Serve Sweet Orange Cream Cheese

These mints can be served in various ways:

As a delightful addition to dessert platters.
Paired with a cup of tea for a refreshing afternoon snack.
Crumbled over a tangy orange cream cheese dip for a unique twist.

How to Store and Reheat Sweet Orange Cream Cheese

Store the Sweet Orange Cream Cheese mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to a week. This makes them perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat anytime!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Orange Cream Cheese

What’s the secret to perfect Sweet Orange Cream Cheese?

The secret lies in using fresh orange zest and high-quality cream cheese. Using full-fat cream cheese ensures a creamy texture, while the zest adds a burst of fresh citrus flavor, making your mints irresistible.

Can I make Sweet Orange Cream Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! These mints can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. Just ensure they are properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sweet Orange Cream Cheese?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to sift your confectioners’ sugar to prevent lumps. Also, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth and creamy mixture. Adjust the orange extract to your taste for the perfect balance.

Variations of Sweet Orange Cream Cheese You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to consider:

Substitute lemon zest for a tangy twist, creating a Lemon Cream Cheese Mint.
Add chopped nuts for a crunchy texture in your mints.
Incorporate coconut flakes for a tropical flavor.
Use different food colorings to create vibrant party mints.

Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints: 7 Easy Steps to Bliss - Sweet Orange Cream Cheese - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our dessert category or try making Cinnamon Orange Jam Linzer Cookies for a delightful treat!

For tips on using cream cheese in various dishes, visit Food Network’s guide on cream cheese.

Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints: 7 Easy Steps to Bliss

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Author: Michael
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 24 mints 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy these Sweet Orange Cream Cheese Mints, a no-bake delight with refreshing citrus flavor, perfect for sweet cravings and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

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Instructions

Start by sifting your confectioners’ sugar and zesting the orange.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Gently mix in the orange extract and grated orange peel.
Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar in three additions, mixing thoroughly.
Roll the dough into 1/2-inch balls and flatten them into discs on parchment paper.
Place the mints in the refrigerator for 1 hour to firm up.
Once set, transfer the mints to an airtight container.