Creating Wedding Mints: Homemade, Refreshing, And Memorable

Homemade mints are a thoughtful touch to any wedding, and they're easy to make. You can use cream cheese, butter, or a combination of the two as your base, and then add peppermint or spearmint extract for that refreshing kick. If you want to get creative with your colours, add some food colouring, and if you want to get really fancy, you can use candy or silicone moulds to shape your mints.

Choosing a flavour

If you want to stick with a classic mint flavour, you can use peppermint or spearmint extract. Peppermint extract will give your mints a stronger, more distinct minty taste, while spearmint will result in a more subtle, sweet mint flavour. You can also use mint oil, but be aware that it is more potent than extract, so you'll need less of it. Start with just a few drops and adjust to your taste preference.

If you want to get creative with your flavours, there are many other options to explore. Vanilla, almond, butter, and cinnamon are all excellent choices that will give your mints a unique and delightful taste. You can also experiment with other extracts like orange, lemon, cherry, or even root beer for a truly unexpected twist. Just be sure to add the extract slowly and taste as you go to avoid overdoing it.

Remember, the type of flavouring you use is also important. Opt for food-grade flavouring oils or extracts rather than essential oils, as these are not meant for consumption. Additionally, consider the potency of the flavouring agent; food oils are more potent than extracts, so adjust your measurements accordingly.

Lastly, don't be afraid to mix and match flavours to create unique combinations that will impress your wedding guests. You can even create a rainbow of mints with different colours and flavours!

Selecting a colour

You can make the mints any colour using food colouring. It is recommended to use gel food colouring, as too much liquid food colouring can change the consistency of the dough. You can also use liquid food colouring, but be aware that you may need to add more to get a deeper colour.

If you are making the mints for a wedding, you could choose a colour that matches the wedding colour scheme. This could be a single colour or a combination of colours. You could also choose a colour that reflects the theme of the wedding. For example, if the wedding has a spring theme, you could make the mints in pastel colours.

Another idea is to choose a colour that reflects the flavour of the mints. For example, if you are making mint-flavoured mints, you could make them green. Or, if you are making lemon-flavoured mints, you could make them yellow.

Finally, you could simply choose a colour that you like or that you think will look attractive. You could also make the mints in a variety of colours, creating a rainbow effect.

Picking a mould

When it comes to picking a mould for your homemade wedding mints, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you'll want to choose a mould that is made from food-safe material, such as silicone or plastic. You can find these moulds at craft or cooking stores, or online. They come in various shapes and themes, such as flowers for a wedding or bottles for a baby shower. You can also find moulds with more general shapes like circles or squares. If you want to get creative, you can even use a silicone ice cube tray as a mould!

Another thing to keep in mind is the size of the mould. The number of mints you'll get from a batch of dough will depend on the size of the mould you use. Smaller moulds will give you more mints, while larger moulds will give you fewer but bigger mints. If you're making mints for a large group, you may want to choose a smaller mould to ensure you have enough.

Additionally, consider the design of the mould and how detailed it is. More intricate designs may be harder to work with, as the dough might get stuck in the crevices. If you're a beginner, it's probably best to choose a mould with simpler designs.

Finally, you'll want to make sure the mould is easy to clean. Look for moulds with smooth surfaces and avoid those with lots of nooks and crannies, as they can be tricky to clean.

Once you've selected your mould, you'll want to prepare it before using it. Wash and dry the mould thoroughly. You can also lightly dust the mould with granulated sugar or cornstarch to help the mints release more easily.

Making the mints

Ingredients:

First, gather your ingredients. The exact measurements may vary slightly depending on the recipe, but the basic ingredients include:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Butter (softened)
• Powdered sugar (sifted)
• Peppermint or mint extract
• Vanilla extract (optional)
• Food coloring (optional)

Mixing the Dough:

• In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the cream cheese and butter. Mix until smooth and creamy.
• Add the peppermint or mint extract and vanilla extract (if using). Stir well to combine.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar. The mixture will become thick and stiff. You may need to pause and scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally. Keep adding powdered sugar until the dough is no longer sticky and has a play-dough-like consistency.
• If using food coloring, divide the dough into separate portions and add a small amount of gel food coloring to each portion. Knead the dough until the coloring is evenly combined.

Shaping the Mints:

There are several ways to shape your mints:

• Using a candy mold: Buy a candy mold online or from a craft or cooking store. Take small chunks of the dough and press them into the mold. Remove the mints from the mold and place them on a sheet pan.
• Rolling and cutting: Roll the dough into a long rope between your hands, about the thickness of your pinky for smaller mints or your thumb for larger mints. Cut the rope into the desired lengths. Place the mints on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Fork method: Roll the dough into small balls, about a teaspoon in size. Dip the tines of a fork in powdered sugar and gently press down on each mint to flatten and create a pattern.

Drying and Storing:

• Allow the mints to dry and harden at room temperature for several hours. The drying time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your mints.
• Once the mints are dry, transfer them to an airtight container. Layer them with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking.
• Store the mints in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to serve. They can be made ahead of time and frozen for up to several months.

Storing the mints

Storing your homemade mints is a crucial step to ensure they retain their freshness and flavour. Here are some detailed instructions on how to properly store your mints:

Refrigeration

It is recommended to store your mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept fresh for up to two weeks when stored this way. This method is ideal if you plan to consume the mints within a short period or if you want to keep them firm and ready to serve.

Freezing

If you want to make your mints ahead of time, freezing is a great option. Place the mints in an airtight container or a plastic freezer bag, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent air from entering. You can freeze them for several months or even up to a year, making them perfect for events like weddings. To thaw, remove the mints from the freezer about 30 minutes before serving.

Room Temperature Storage

If you wish to store your mints at room temperature, it is best to use an airtight container. Separate the layers of mints with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking. This method is suitable if your kitchen is cool, and the mints can be kept for a couple of weeks. However, if the room is hot, the mints may become soft, so refrigeration is generally recommended.

Storage for Parties or Favours

When preparing mints for a party or as favours, it is best to keep them refrigerated until ready to serve. This will help maintain their texture and freshness. If you plan to package them as favours, consider using small gift boxes or clear plastic bags, and keep them refrigerated until you are ready to distribute them.

Storage Tips

To enhance the longevity of your mints, ensure they are completely dry before storing. Additionally, when freezing, use multiple layers of protection, such as plastic bags and containers, to prevent air from entering and affecting the flavour and texture. Finally, if using moulds, ensure the mints are easily removable and do not stick by coating them with granulated sugar before placing them in the moulds.

Frequently asked questions