Permafrost Peppermints

4-ounce (1/2 of 8-ounce package) Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
1 tablespoon butter or margarine, softened
1 tablespoon light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
4 cups powdered sugar
Green and red food coloring
Granulated sugar
Green, red and white decorating icings (optional)

1. Beat cream cheese, butter, corn syrup and extract in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until well blended.
2. Divide mixture into thirds. Knead a few drops green food coloring into one third; repeat with red food coloring and second third. Leave remaining third plain. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap; refrigerate until firm.
3. Shape dough into 3/4-inch balls, working with 1 color at a time. Place on wax paper-covered baking sheet. Flatten each ball with bottom of glass lightly dipped in granulated sugar. Repeat with remaining mixtures.
4. Decorate with icings, if desired; let dry.
5. Store in tightly covered container in refrigerator.

Makes about 5 dozen candies or 20 servings.

Great Substitute:
Substitute a few drops peppermint oil for the peppermint extract.

Family Fun:
Let the kids create their own fun candies for themselves or for serving holiday visitors. Decorate with chocolate or multi-colored sprinkles or green- and red-colored sugars.

Nutrition (per serving): Calories 130, Total fat 2.5g, Saturated fat 1.5g, Cholesterol 10mg, Sodium 30mg,
Carbohydrate 26g, Dietary fiber 0g, Sugars 24g, Protein 0g, Vitamin A 0%DV, Vitamin C 0%DV,
Calcium 0%DV, Iron 0%DV.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of Kraft Food, Inc.