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Peppermint Oreo Balls are a festive no bake treat perfect for holiday gatherings or whenever you crave a sweet bite with a refreshing twist. These little delights combine crushed Oreo cookies with cream cheese and peppermint extract, all coated in smooth white chocolate and topped with crushed candy canes for extra crunch and seasonal cheer. They are simple to prepare and deliver a rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
I first made these for a Christmas party, and they quickly became the talkedabout dessert. Now every year my friends ask if I will bring a batch.
Ingredients
- Oreo cookies: choose the classic variety (avoid Double Stuft) for the best texture the regular cream filling makes it easier to roll the balls without them falling apart
- Cream cheese: softened to room temperature this acts as a binder and adds creaminess
- Peppermint extract: provides that signature holiday flavor fresh extract from the baking aisle is best
- White melting wafers: these melt smoothly creating a beautiful candy coating if unavailable vanilla almond bark works fine
- Crushed candy canes: optional but adds a festive crunch and a helpful hint of peppermint before the first bite
Instructions
- Scoop and crush applications:
- Crush the Oreo cookies finely using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and rolling with a rolling pin until crumbs are uniform
- Mixing cookie crumbs:
- In a large bowl combine the crushed Oreo crumbs with softened cream cheese and peppermint extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles a smooth dough with no large lumps of cream cheese
- Forming balls:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out equal amounts of the mixture. Roll each portion between your palms until you form smooth round balls Arrange them spaced out on the lined baking sheet
- Freezing:
- Place the baking sheet carefully into the freezer for 30 minutes. This firms the balls so they hold their shape during dipping
- Melting chocolate coating:
- In a microwave-safe bowl melt the white melting wafers. Follow the package instructions Heating in 30 second intervals and stirring well to avoid overheating or burning
- Dipping and decorating:
- Using a fork carefully dip each frozen ball into the melted chocolate Allow excess coating to drip off Place dipped balls back onto parchment paper Quickly sprinkle crushed candy canes over the wet chocolate for decoration
- Chilling and serving:
- Transfer the coated balls to the refrigerator Let them chill for at least 15 minutes to set the chocolate coating before serving Enjoy the creamy peppermint Oreo bites chilled for the best texture and flavor
I love how the crushed candy canes add just enough crunch and a pop of color on top. It always reminds me of decorating cookies with my kids during the holidays and the excitement on their faces as they taste their handiwork for the first time
Storage Tips
Store leftover Peppermint Oreo Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to three weeks to maintain freshness. Freezing these balls is an excellent option if you want to save them for later Be sure to wrap tightly or store in a sealed container to avoid absorbing any freezer odors Thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If white melting wafers are not available you can substitute with vanilla almond bark or white chocolate chips Just be sure to watch the melting process closely as white chocolate chips can overheat and seize. Peppermint extract can be swapped with other extracts like vanilla or almond for different flavor profiles but keep in mind it will change the classic peppermint taste. Cream cheese can be swapped for mascarpone for a slightly richer texture but the firmness might differ so adjust freezing time accordingly
Serving Suggestions
Peppermint Oreo Balls pair wonderfully with hot cocoa or a festive spiced tea They make delightful homemade gifts when placed in small decorative boxes or cellophane bags tied with flair Serving them chilled enhances the creamy texture but letting them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating brings out the flavors more fully
These Peppermint Oreo Balls are simple to make and perfect for gifting or parties. They bring festive flavor and crunch in every bite.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can these treats be made ahead of time?
Yes, they can be prepared the night before and chilled well to maintain their shape and flavor.
- → What can I use if white melting chips aren’t available?
Vanilla almond bark is a great alternative that melts smoothly for coating these bites.
- → How do I achieve an even coating without clumping?
Work quickly when dipping the balls in melted chocolate and immediately add crushed candy canes before the coating sets.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or refrigerate for up to three weeks.
- → Is it possible to freeze these confections?
Yes, freezing in a sealed container preserves texture and flavor for several weeks. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.