Cream Cheese Mints

Gifts from the Kitchen

Give the gift that doesn't mints around... get it? See what I did there?

If you're stuck for a gift idea, these Cream Cheese Mints are super easy, quick to whip up and look incredibly pretty! Package them up in little jars, throw on a sparkly ribbon, and you have an almost-instant gift. And who doesn't like getting candy as a gift? (That's a hint, by the way).

Cream Cheese Mints
Based on this recipe from Kraft Canada
Makes 8-12 dozen tiny mints, depending upon the size you make them

Ingredients
1 pkg. (8 oz) Cream Cheese, softened
1 tsp. peppermint extract
5.5 cups icing sugar
Blue food colouring (I used AmeriColor gel)

Tools Required

Piping bag

Rosette piping tip

Method

1. Prepare 3 baking sheets by lining with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Beat cream cheese, peppermint extract, icing sugar and food colouring together until smooth.
3. Spoon mixture into piping bag and pipe little swirls onto the parchment paper. Let mints dry overnight, then package them into pretty jars, decorated with ribbon.

Gifts from the Kitchen: Spiced Almonds

Spice and slightly sweet from a hint of maple syrup

Spiced nuts can be expensive, particularly around the holidays. You can make your own quite easily and save a ton of money! Put them in a jar with a bow and a pretty label, and you have an instant gift for the foodie on your shopping list. 

Gifts from the Kitchen: Reindeer Chow

Crunchin and munchin – a pepperminty snack to give away

If you are looking for ideas for homemade gifts — look no further. Reindeer Chow is a delightful, crunchy snack mix that makes a perfect gift, made by you! Reindeer Chow is simple and quick to make — include the kids for a fun afternoon! This recipe will make about five 500 ml jars, loosely filled. I have included a downloadable sheet of labels for you to use — or customize your own.

Top Ten Awesome Christmas Gift Ideas for Bakers

Do you have a baker on your Christmas shopping list? I've compiled a list of 10 cool gifts that bakers will swoon for! From amateurs to pros, these gift ideas will be sure to please. No need to break the bank; there are gift ideas for every budget — from stocking stuffers to showcase uber-gifts. Happy shopping!

1. KitchenAid KSM120MC Custom Stand Mixer in Metallic Chrome $269.97 Cdn
A classic addition to any baker's kitchen — it is the one tool I use constantly and could not do without!

2. Wilton 50-Piece Tool and Caddy Decorating Set $67.99 Cdn
A fantastic starter set for anyone who wants to get started decorating cakes, cupcakes and cookies. 

3. Silpat silicone baking mat $14.99 Cdn
My favorite non-stick surface for making cookies, molding chocolate or sugar, or making bark-type desserts like peanut brittle. 

4. Silicone spatula $5.94 Cdn 

One of the most versatile tools for a baker's kitchen! A silicone spatula can take any heat; whether you're stirring caramel or melting chocolate, this spatula also has the strength to stir stiff cookie batter. A must have! 

5. Digital Scale $25 Cdn 

Many baking recipes measure by weight, so a digital scale is an essential tool for the modern baker. 

6. Digital Candy Thermometer $45 

A fantastic stocking stuffer — thermometers are used in making candy, melting chocolate and making caramels.  

7. Beautiful cake stands from Shop Sweet Lulu Starting at $35
8" or 11.5" in diameter, these elegant stands will make your dessert stand out! There are many other beautiful and unique stands to choose from. Check it out! 

8. Cookie love apron $24.50 from Cafe Press 

Showcasing a match made in heaven: milk and cookies. 

9. Cake Pops: Tips, Tricks, and Recipes for Irresistible Mini Treats by Angie Dudley $18 

The one and only Cake Pops book you need to read! Written by the popular web author, Cake Pops is a feast for the eyes as well as the tummy. 

10. Ready for Dessert: My Best Recipes by David Lebovitz $28 

Reading David Lebovitz' website about his culinary adventures in Paris inspired me to start this website. 

Hopefully, you will find some of these great products for a great price tomorrow on Black Friday. Happy shopping!