If you’re looking for a festive treat that’s delightful, easy to make, and wonderfully indulgent, then this Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine crunchy Oreo crumbs blended with smooth cream cheese and a hint of peppermint, all wrapped in luscious white chocolate and topped with a sprinkle of crushed candy canes. These bite-sized sweets are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or whenever a peppermint-flavored indulgence calls your name. They’re simple to prepare but impossible to resist, delivering a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and minty sensations in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, yet each plays a special role. From the rich Oreo cookies providing texture to the refreshing peppermint extract that brings a seasonal twist, every component works in harmony to create these irresistible peppermint treats.
- 14 ounce package Oreo cookies (regular, not Double Stuft): These crunchy, chocolaty cookies form the base and give the balls their classic flavor and crumbly texture.
- 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature: Cream cheese adds the perfect creamy binder, ensuring the mixture holds together without overpowering the flavor.
- ¾ teaspoon peppermint extract: This gives the recipe its signature refreshing minty note, elevating the Oreo base into a festive delight.
- 2 cups white melting wafers: Smooth and sweet, these create the beautiful chocolate coating that makes the balls oh-so-satisfying.
- ¼ cup crushed candy canes: Adding a delightful crunch and a pop of vibrant color on top for that final festive touch.
How to Make Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe
Step 1: Crush the Oreo Cookies
Start by breaking down the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor for ease or place them in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin. The goal is to get a crumbly texture that will easily mix with the cream cheese, setting the foundation for your peppermint balls.
Step 2: Mix with Cream Cheese and Peppermint
In a large bowl, combine the finely crushed Oreo crumbs with the softened cream cheese and peppermint extract. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to blend until everything is evenly incorporated. This mixture should hold together nicely but still feel smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Form the Balls
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—that’s essential to prevent sticking later—and use a cookie scoop to portion out small amounts of dough. Roll each section briefly in your palms to form perfect, round balls. Place them evenly spaced on the baking sheet ready for the next step.
Step 4: Freeze the Balls
Pop the tray into the freezer for about 30 minutes. Freezing firms up the balls, making them easier to dip into the melted chocolate without losing shape or crumbling apart.
Step 5: Melt the White Chocolate Coating
In a microwave-safe bowl, gently melt the white melting wafers. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between to avoid burning and ensure a smooth, velvety texture. Follow the exact instructions on your package to achieve the best consistency.
Step 6: Dip and Decorate
Remove the frozen Oreo balls from the freezer. Using a fork, dunk each one into the melted white chocolate, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess gently and return the dipped balls to the parchment. While the coating is still wet, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top to add sparkle and extra flavor.
Step 7: Chill Until Set
Transfer the coated balls to the refrigerator to chill for at least 15 minutes. This step helps the white chocolate harden to a smooth finish, sealing in all that peppermint goodness and making these treats ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive appearance, consider adding a small peppermint stick alongside each ball or dusting with a little edible glitter. Even a tiny drizzle of dark chocolate over the white coating creates a beautiful contrast and adds a hint of richness.
Side Dishes
Peppermint Oreo balls are perfect on their own but pair wonderfully with hot beverages like rich hot chocolate, black coffee, or even a peppermint mocha. They also complement fruit platters or light cheese boards well, offering a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these peppermint treats in decorative cupcake liners or arrange them in a holiday-themed box as gifts. They also make charming additions to cookie trays for parties or can be skewered on small sticks for a fun lollipop-style presentation. Presentation adds to the joy, making these candies feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover peppermint Oreo balls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh and delicious for up to a week, perfect for snacking or sharing throughout the holidays.
Freezing
These treats freeze beautifully. Place them on a lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When properly stored, they’ll maintain their texture and flavor for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Since they are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating is generally not recommended. However, if you want to soften the chocolate coating slightly, allow the peppermint Oreo balls to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use Double Stuft Oreo cookies instead of regular ones?
While you technically can, using regular Oreos is recommended to maintain the right texture and avoid an overly sweet or mushy mixture that affects the final consistency of the peppermint Oreo balls.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan or lactose-free version. Just make sure it has a similar texture and is softened well to mix with the crushed cookies.
Can I use peppermint candy oil instead of extract?
Peppermint candy oil is stronger in flavor than peppermint extract, so if substituting, use it sparingly—start with just a drop or two and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the recipe.
What if I don’t have white melting wafers? Can I use regular white chocolate?
Regular white chocolate can be used, but it can be a bit trickier to melt smoothly and may seize if overheated. Melting wafers are formulated for dipping and coating, so they give a better finish and are easier to work with.
Can these peppermint Oreo balls be made without freezing them first?
Freezing the balls is key because it firms them up, making the dipping process much cleaner and easier. Skipping this step often leads to misshapen or crumbly balls when dipped in the warm chocolate coating.
Final Thoughts
If you want a holiday treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, I wholeheartedly suggest giving this Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe a try. These sweet, mint-infused bites bring together simple ingredients with festive cheer, guaranteed to impress friends and family alike. Whether you’re gifting them, enjoying with a cozy drink, or just indulging your sweet tooth, these Oreo balls deliver delight in every single bite.
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Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 30 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these festive Peppermint Oreo Balls, a no-bake treat combining crushed Oreo cookies, creamy peppermint-infused cream cheese, and a smooth white chocolate coating, finished with a crunchy candy cane garnish. Perfect for holiday gatherings and easy to prepare in under an hour.
Ingredients
Base
- 14 ounce package Oreo cookies (regular, not Double Stuft)
- 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ¾ teaspoon peppermint extract
Coating and Garnish
- 2 cups white melting wafers
- ¼ cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Crush Oreos: Crush the Oreo cookies using a food processor or place them in a Ziploc bag and crush with a rolling pin until they reach a fine crumb consistency.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed cookie crumbs with the softened cream cheese and peppermint extract, mixing thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Form Balls: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop, portion out the mixture into small balls and gently roll them between your hands until perfectly round.
- Freeze: Arrange the balls on the parchment-lined baking sheet and place them in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Melt Chocolate: Melt the white chocolate melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-2 minute intervals and stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and fully melted, following package instructions if necessary.
- Dip Balls: Remove the firm cookie balls from the freezer. Using a fork, dip each ball into the melted white chocolate, ensuring an even coat, then gently shake off the excess chocolate.
- Garnish: Place the coated balls back onto the parchment paper and immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while the chocolate is still wet.
- Chill to Set: Transfer the peppermint Oreo balls to the refrigerator and chill for at least 15 minutes to allow the chocolate coating to fully set before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to achieve smooth mixing with cookie crumbs.
- Use regular Oreos, not Double Stuft, for optimal texture and flavor balance.
- Adjust peppermint extract quantity to taste, but avoid using too much as it can overpower the flavor.
- If white melting wafers are unavailable, high-quality white chocolate can be used as a substitute.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
