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If you are looking for a festive and delightfully indulgent treat, this Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe is sure to become your new favorite. These little bites bring together the perfect combination of rich Oreo cookies, creamy tangy cream cheese, and a refreshing burst of peppermint flavor—all enveloped in a smooth chocolate shell and sprinkled with crushed peppermint pieces. They are irresistible, easy to make, and ideal for holiday parties, gifting, or simply satisfying a sweet craving with a seasonal twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe. From the crumbly Oreos that give texture to the luscious cream cheese that adds creaminess, every bite is pure magic.
- 14 ounce package Oreos: These cookies form the base, providing a chocolatey crunch and rich flavor.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): Adds creamy smoothness to bind the crumbs together effortlessly.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Gives that unmistakable refreshing peppermint kick that elevates the flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall taste.
- 10 ounces chocolate melting wafers: Creates a silky chocolate coating that hardens around the balls for a satisfying snap.
- Crushed peppermint pieces: Adds crunch and festive flair as a beautiful finishing touch.
How to Make Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe
Step 1: Create the Oreo Crumbs
Start by placing the Oreos into a food processor and pulsing them until you get a fine crumb consistency. This crumb forms the perfect base texture that will hold together wonderfully when mixed with the cream cheese.
Step 2: Mix in the Cream Cheese and Peppermint
Next, add the softened cream cheese, peppermint extract, and salt into the food processor. Pulse several times until everything is combined into a thick, sticky mixture. This step ensures the mint flavor is evenly blended and the mixture sticks well for shaping.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Using a medium cookie scoop or a two-tablespoon measuring spoon, scoop out the mixture and roll it into smooth balls between your palms. Place them on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and chill them for 15 to 30 minutes, which makes dipping easier later on.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate Wafers
Gently melt the chocolate melting wafers in a small microwave-safe bowl by heating at 30-second intervals. Stir each time until fully melted and silky smooth, perfect for coating the Oreo balls.
Step 5: Dip and Coat
Use a spoon to scoop the melted chocolate and a fork to dip each chilled ball, letting the excess chocolate drip off before transferring them back to the parchment paper. This process creates that classic chocolate shell that sets perfectly around the sweet center.
Step 6: Add the Peppermint Topping
Before the coating hardens, sprinkle the tops with crushed peppermint pieces or any festive sprinkles you love. This final touch not only adds crunch but also makes your Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe look stunning and holiday-ready.
How to Serve Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe
Garnishes
For extra festivity, dust your peppermint oreo balls with powdered sugar or dip them halfway and drizzle with white chocolate. Fresh mint leaves can also add a beautiful garnish that complements the peppermint flavor perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serve these treats alongside a cup of hot cocoa or peppermint mocha for a wonderfully cozy experience. They also pair well with fresh fruit platters or spiced nuts for more variety at holiday gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your peppermint oreo balls recipe on a decorative tray lined with festive napkins or in a clear, holiday-themed jar tied with ribbon for gift-giving. You can stack them in a pyramid shape or place each ball in mini cupcake liners for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover peppermint oreo balls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They keep fresh for up to a week and continue to taste just as delicious as when first made.
Freezing
These Oreo balls freeze beautifully. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When properly sealed, they stay fresh for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
Since these are best enjoyed at cool or room temperature, reheating is generally not necessary. However, if the chocolate shell becomes too firm after refrigeration, leave them out for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different extracts instead of peppermint?
Absolutely! While peppermint is classic here, you can experiment with vanilla, almond, or even orange extracts to customize the flavor of your Oreo balls.
Do I need a food processor to make this Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe?
A food processor makes the process quick and easy, but you can also crush the Oreos by placing them in a sealed bag and crushing with a rolling pin until fine crumbs form.
Can I use dark or white chocolate instead of chocolate melting wafers?
Yes, dark or white chocolate bars chopped and melted work well too. Just be sure to temper or melt gently to avoid burning the chocolate.
How long do Oreo balls last once dipped in chocolate?
When kept in an airtight container in the fridge, they stay fresh for about a week. Their flavor often improves after sitting a day to allow the flavors to meld.
Are these Oreo balls suitable for kids?
Definitely! These are a fun, mess-free sweet treat kids love. Just be cautious with peppermint extract amounts if serving to very young children, as it can be strong.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly delightful about how a few simple ingredients come together in the Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe to create a sweet treat that’s both festive and utterly delicious. Whether you’re sharing them with family, gifting to friends, or just treating yourself, these candy bites are sure to brighten up any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every joyful bite filled with chocolate, peppermint, and pure holiday cheer!
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Print
Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these festive Peppermint Oreo Balls, a no-bake treat combining the classic crunch of Oreos with creamy peppermint-infused cream cheese, all coated in smooth chocolate and topped with crushed peppermint for a perfect holiday indulgence.
Ingredients
Base
- 14 ounce package Oreos (36 regular Oreos)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Coating & Garnish
- 10 ounces chocolate melting wafers
- Crushed peppermint pieces
Instructions
- Pulse Oreos: Add the Oreos to a food processor and pulse until they form a fine crumb to create the base texture for the balls.
- Mix Ingredients: Add softened cream cheese, peppermint extract, and salt to the Oreo crumbs in the processor and pulse until combined into a thick, sticky mixture.
- Form Balls: Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the mixture and roll into balls by hand. Place the balls on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and chill for 15 to 30 minutes to firm up.
- Melt Chocolate: Melt the chocolate wafers in a small bowl using 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
- Coat Balls: Dip each chilled ball using a spoon and fork to coat entirely in melted chocolate; then transfer back to the parchment paper to set completely.
- Add Toppings: Before the chocolate hardens, sprinkle crushed peppermint pieces on top of the coated balls for added texture and holiday flair.
Notes
- For best results, chill the balls before dipping to prevent melting and achieve a smooth chocolate coating.
- You can substitute crushed candy canes if peppermint pieces are unavailable.
- Store the peppermint balls refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Use good-quality chocolate wafers or candy melts for a smooth and glossy finish.
