Christmas Mint Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a truly delightful holiday treat that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress, your search ends here. This Christmas Mint Cookies Recipe is something I’ve been making for years, and I absolutely love how these creamy, minty gems turn out—light, sweet, and perfectly festive with a little sprinkle of holiday magic. Whether it’s a family gathering or you just want a refreshing holiday bite, this recipe will bring joy to your kitchen and smiles to everyone tasting them.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work beautifully together to create a cookie that’s soft with just the right hint of mint — and the sprinkles? They add that irresistible holiday charm that makes this Christmas Mint Cookies Recipe stand out on any cookie tray.

• Cream Cheese: I like to use full-fat and softened for the creamiest texture.
• Powdered Sugar: It sweetens and gives the mints that melt-in-your-mouth feel; make sure it’s sifted to avoid lumps.
• Mint Extract: The perfect amount is key here—too much can overpower, too little and it’s not festive enough.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps bind the dough; I usually use whole milk for richness.
• Holiday Sprinkles: These are for color and a little crunchy contrast—pick your favorite festive shapes or colors!
• Granulated or Powdered Sugar (for rolling): This coating gives a nice outer touch and keeps the mints from sticking.

Variations

I love to mix things up sometimes! This Christmas Mint Cookies Recipe is flexible, so you can add your own twist or adjust it to fit your family’s taste buds or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative—you might discover a new favorite version.

• Chocolate Mint: I once added a teaspoon of cocoa powder, and my family went crazy for the subtle chocolate twist.
• Vegan Version: Try replacing cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use plant-based milk; results might be slightly different but still delicious!
• Strong Mint Flavor: If you really love mint, increase the mint extract by a small amount but add it gradually to avoid bitterness.
• Sprinkle-Free: If you prefer plain cookies, simply skip the sprinkles and roll the mints in powdered sugar only for a classic look.

How to Make Christmas Mint Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Blend Together Your Cream Cheese and Mint

Start by softening your cream cheese—this step is crucial! If it’s too cold, you’ll end up with lumps, and trust me, no one likes those in mints. Use a hand mixer on low speed to blend the cream cheese and mint extract until smooth. You’ll notice the aroma fill your kitchen—so inviting. Keep the mixer on low to avoid overheating the cheese, which could mess up texture later.

Step 2: Slowly Add Powdered Sugar and Milk

Next, add two cups of powdered sugar and the milk to your cream cheese mixture. Blend gently until completely smooth, but don’t go overboard—overmixing can make the dough runny, and nobody wants that sticky mess. You’re aiming for a creamy, thick consistency that will hold its shape.

Step 3: Fold in More Sugar and Sprinkles

It’s sprinkle time! Add one cup of powdered sugar and a couple of tablespoons of holiday sprinkles, mixing on low so those delicate bits don’t break apart. This part adds that festive spirit and just a tiny crunch to the dough.

Step 4: Knead in the Remaining Sugar

Now comes the fun (and messy) part—I like getting my hands in there! Gradually knead the remaining powdered sugar into the dough by hand. If it feels sticky, sprinkle in a bit more sugar until the dough is smooth and holds together well. You want it soft, but not sticky, so it shapes into small balls without a fight.

Step 5: Shape and Coat Your Mints

Form your dough into 3/4-inch balls—try to keep them uniform in size so they bake and chill evenly. Roll each ball in a separate bowl where you’ve mixed granulated sugar and a few more sprinkles. This coating prevents sticking and adds a nice sugary crunch on the outside.

Step 6: Chill and Flatten

Place your coated cookie balls on a baking sheet. Pop them into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes; this step helps them set up nicely. Once chilled, gently flatten each ball with a fork to create those pretty little fork-pressed tops. You can leave them on the counter for a bit to harden slightly before packing them away—makes handling easier.

How to Serve Christmas Mint Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with extra sprinkles—they add just enough sparkle to the cookies without overwhelming the mint flavor. If you want to get fancy, a light dusting of edible glitter or a drizzle of white chocolate looks stunning and adds an elegant touch at holiday parties.

Side Dishes

These mint cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of hot cocoa or fresh peppermint tea. At holiday gatherings, I love setting them alongside a cheese platter or a selection of fruit, which balances the sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging your Christmas Mint Cookies Recipe in a festive tin lined with parchment paper, or stack them in small towers tied with red and green ribbons to give as charming gifts. I once made little cookie jars layered with sprinkles in between for a cute, colorful touch that guests adored.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store these mints in an airtight container in the fridge — they keep their texture and flavor for up to two weeks. Leaving them out too long can soften them too much, so refrigeration is key to maintaining their perfect bite.

Freezing

If you want to make these ahead for holiday parties, they freeze wonderfully! Just pop the shaped and coated balls on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

Since these cookies don’t bake in the oven, reheating isn’t really necessary. If you want to take the chill off, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving — they soften up nicely and release their minty aroma.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Mint Cookies Recipe has become a cherished part of my holiday tradition—so easy to make and so delightful to share. The balance of creamy texture and refreshing mint with that festive sprinkle crunch just makes them irresistible. I promise, once you give these a try, your cookie tray won’t be complete without them. So go ahead, mix up a batch and spread some holiday cheer with every bite!

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