Name: Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 36
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 36 oreos; 8 oz cream cheese; 16 oz white chocolate melting wafers; ½ tsp Peppermint Extract; 48 peppermint candies

For the lovers of peppermint and chocolate, this recipe is a sweet spot. The peppermint oreo balls offer a delightful blend of creamy, crunchy, and peppermint flavors, that melts in the mouth. These no-bake treats are perfect for the festive season, or any time you need a quick and easy dessert that will wow everyone.

Photos of Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are quite common and should be found in most grocery stores. However, you might want to pay special attention when buying the white chocolate melting wafers and peppermint candies, as they can be found in the candy aisle rather than in the baking section.

Ingredients for Peppermint Oreo Balls

Oreos: The base of the recipe, adding the chocolaty flavour and the necessary crunchiness.

Cream cheese: This gives the oreo balls their creaminess and is a binding agent.

White chocolate melting wafers: These will provide an outer layer for the oreo balls.

Peppermint extract: This gives the balls their distinct peppermint flavour.

Peppermint candies: These are crushed and sprinkled over the balls for added texture and flavour.

One reader, Aldon Hallman says:

These peppermint Oreo balls are a game-changer! The combination of creamy Oreo filling and refreshing peppermint is simply divine. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is a delightful treat that's perfect for the holiday season. I highly recommend trying it out!

Aldon Hallman

Techniques for Creating Perfect Oreo Balls

How to process the oreos and cream cheese: Place the oreos and cream cheese in a food processor and process until well combined.

How to roll the mixture into balls: Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls.

How to freeze the balls: Place the rolled balls on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and freeze for 20 minutes, or until they are hardened.

How to melt the white chocolate: Melt the white chocolate melting wafers with peppermint extract in the microwave at 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.

How to dip the balls in the melted chocolate: Using a fork, dip each frozen ball into the melted white chocolate, ensuring to scrape the bottom.

How to coat the balls with peppermint candies: Roll the dipped balls in crushed peppermint candies and place them back on the parchment paper.

How To Make Peppermint Oreo Balls

These Oreo balls are a holiday dessert made with Oreo cookies and cream cheese that are dipped in white chocolate and covered with peppermint candies.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking:

Freeze Time: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

36Oreos
8ozcream cheese
16ozwhite chocolate melting wafers
½tsppeppermint extract
48peppermint candies,crushed

Instructions

Place the cream cheese and Oreos in a food processor and process until combined.
Scoop out small parts of the mixture and roll into 48 1-inch balls.
Place the balls on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 20 minutes, or until hardened.
Melt the semisweet chocolate with peppermint extract in the microwave at 30-second increments, stirring between each one.
Once melted, dip each ball in it with a fork, scraping the bottom.
Roll in peppermint candies and put the ball on the parchment paper.

Nutrition

Calories: 200.83kcal
Fat: 10.90g
Saturated Fat: 4.88g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.38g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.95g
Carbohydrates: 26.26g
Fiber: 1.39g
Sugar: 12.35g
Protein: 2.10g
Cholesterol: 6.93mg
Sodium: 109.58mg
Calcium: 16.13mg
Potassium: 98.96mg
Iron: 2.18mg
Vitamin A: 23.19µg
Vitamin C: 0.00mg

Crucial Technique for Peppermint Oreo Balls Success

When melting the white chocolate with peppermint extract, ensure to stir it frequently to prevent it from burning. Chocolate can easily seize or burn if overheated, so using short intervals in the microwave and stirring in between can help achieve a smooth and evenly melted chocolate. Also, when dipping the oreo balls into the melted chocolate, use a fork to allow the excess chocolate to drip off, ensuring a neat and uniform coating.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Prep ahead: Make the Oreo and cream cheese mixture a day in advance and refrigerate. This will save time on the day you plan to make the peppermint Oreo balls.

Use a food processor: Using a food processor to crush the Oreos and mix them with the cream cheese will save time and ensure a smooth and consistent texture for the Oreo balls.

Chill the mixture: After rolling the Oreo mixture into balls, chill them in the freezer for a shorter amount of time, around 10-15 minutes, to speed up the hardening process.

Double dipping: Instead of waiting for each Oreo ball to set completely before dipping in the white chocolate, dip all the balls once, then go back and do a second coat to save time.

Work in batches: When dipping the Oreo balls in white chocolate, work in small batches to prevent the chocolate from hardening before you can roll them in the peppermint candies.

Substitute Ingredients For Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe

oreos - Substitute with chocolate wafer cookies: Chocolate wafer cookies can be used as a substitute for Oreos in this recipe, providing a similar crunchy texture and chocolate flavor.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to cream cheese, providing a creamy texture and tangy flavor to the recipe.
white chocolate melting wafers - Substitute with dark chocolate melting wafers: Dark chocolate melting wafers can be used as a substitute for white chocolate, offering a rich and slightly bitter flavor to complement the sweetness of the recipe.
peppermint extract - Substitute with vanilla extract: Vanilla extract can be used as a substitute for peppermint extract, providing a sweet and aromatic flavor to the recipe without the minty undertones.
peppermint candies - Substitute with crushed candy canes: Crushed candy canes can be used as a substitute for peppermint candies, adding a festive and crunchy element to the recipe.

Presentation Ideas for Peppermint Oreo Balls

Elevate the plating: When presenting the peppermint oreo balls, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use a sleek, white plate to provide a clean canvas for the vibrant colors of the peppermint candies and the white chocolate coating to pop.
Incorporate height and dimension: Add visual interest by stacking the peppermint oreo balls in a pyramid shape. This not only adds an element of elegance but also showcases the craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a dusting of crushed peppermint candies around the plate to add a touch of color and a hint of festive flair. This delicate garnish will tie the presentation together and provide a burst of flavor and texture.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by strategically placing the peppermint oreo balls on the plate, allowing for ample negative space. This approach draws the eye to the focal point and creates a sense of balance and sophistication.
Consider the plate as a canvas: Treat the plate as an artist would a canvas, using the white chocolate-coated peppermint oreo balls as the focal point. Arrange them in a visually appealing pattern, ensuring that each element complements the others.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring that the peppermint oreo balls are evenly spaced and the garnishes are delicately positioned. Precision demonstrates a high level of skill and attention to detail.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Oreo Balls

Food processor: A food processor is used to finely crush the Oreos and combine them with the cream cheese to form a smooth mixture for the Oreo balls.
Cookie sheet: A cookie sheet is used to place the Oreo balls on, lined with parchment paper, for freezing and setting.
Microwave: The microwave is used to melt the white chocolate melting wafers and peppermint extract for coating the Oreo balls.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl may be used to combine the crushed Oreos and cream cheese if a food processor is not available.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to line the cookie sheet and prevent the Oreo balls from sticking.
Fork: A fork is used to dip the Oreo balls into the melted white chocolate and to roll them in the crushed peppermint candies.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Oreo Balls

Once the peppermint oreo balls have hardened completely, store them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week, but for optimal freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
If you want to keep the oreo balls for an extended period, freezing is a great option. Place the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the balls to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Frozen oreo balls can be stored for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen peppermint oreo balls, simply transfer them to the refrigerator and allow them to defrost overnight. Alternatively, you can let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour before serving.
If you notice any condensation on the oreo balls after thawing, gently pat them dry with a paper towel to maintain their appearance and texture.
For optimal taste and texture, it's best to consume the peppermint oreo balls within a month of freezing, although they will still be safe to eat for up to 3 months when stored properly in the freezer.

Interesting Trivia About Peppermint Oreo Balls

Oreo balls are a popular treat during the holiday season and can be customized with various flavors such as peppermint, making them a versatile and festive dessert option.

Budget-Friendly: Making Oreo Balls at Home

This peppermint oreo balls recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as oreos, cream cheese, and white chocolate melting wafers, are reasonably priced and readily available. The addition of peppermint extract and peppermint candies may slightly increase the cost, but they are optional and can be omitted if necessary. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful treat at a reasonable cost. I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly dessert option.

Is This Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This peppermint Oreo balls recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - Oreos, cream cheese, and white chocolate - are all high in sugar, fat, and calories, with little nutritional value. The peppermint extract and candies add even more sugar to the mix. Consuming these treats in excess could contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health issues.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use a lower-fat cream cheese or a healthier alternative like Greek yogurt
Opt for dark chocolate instead of white chocolate, as it contains more antioxidants and less sugar
Reduce the amount of chocolate coating or skip it altogether
Crush the Oreos more finely and use less of them, replacing some with healthier ingredients like oats or nuts
Use sugar-free peppermint extract and candies or replace them with fresh mint leaves
Make smaller balls to control portion sizes

Editor's Opinion on Peppermint Oreo Balls

This peppermint Oreo balls recipe is a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of chocolate and peppermint. The use of cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the Oreo filling, while the addition of peppermint extract and candies provides a refreshing and festive touch. The process of freezing the balls before dipping them in white chocolate ensures a smooth and even coating. Overall, this recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness and minty freshness, making it a wonderful addition to any holiday dessert spread.

Enhance Your Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with a balsamic glaze and sprinkled with toasted almonds

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits tossed in a honey-lime dressing

Tomato Soup: Rich and velvety tomato soup topped with a dollop of basil pesto and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese

Similar Recipes to Peppermint Oreo Balls

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and cream creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled lemon herb chicken is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs infuse the chicken with bright and savory flavors that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

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Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Peppermint Oreo Balls

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with a savory and indulgent appetizer that combines earthy mushrooms with a rich and creamy filling. The contrast of textures and flavors will leave everyone wanting more.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: A classic crowd-pleaser, this creamy and cheesy dip is the perfect way to start off any meal. The combination of spinach and artichoke creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: As a culinary chef, I recommend a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. The flavors of the Parmesan cheese and garlic in the sauce perfectly complement the savory chicken, creating a satisfying and comforting main course.

Beef Stir Fry: For a flavorful and colorful main course, I suggest a beef stir fry that is packed with a variety of fresh vegetables and tender strips of beef. The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a delicious and aromatic sauce that coats the beef and vegetables, making it a delightful and satisfying dish.

Why trust this Peppermint Oreo Balls Recipe:

This recipe is a delightful treat for any occasion. The combination of Oreos and cream cheese creates a rich and creamy base, while the addition of peppermint extract adds a refreshing twist. The use of white chocolate melting wafers elevates the flavor profile, and the finishing touch of peppermint candies adds a festive and satisfying crunch. The step-by-step instructions ensure that the process is simple and enjoyable. Trust in the delightful flavors and the expertise behind this recipe, and you'll be rewarded with a delectable treat that's perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Want to share your experience making these Peppermint Oreo Balls or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

Can I use regular chocolate instead of white chocolate melting wafers?

Yes, you can use regular white chocolate instead of white chocolate melting wafers. Simply chop the white chocolate into small pieces and melt it using a double boiler or in the microwave.

Can I substitute the peppermint extract with another flavor?

Absolutely! You can substitute the peppermint extract with other flavors such as vanilla, almond, or even orange extract to create different variations of the Oreo balls.

How long can I store the peppermint Oreo balls?

You can store the peppermint Oreo balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months.

Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?

Yes, you can use a blender if you don't have a food processor. However, you may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Can I use a different type of cookie instead of Oreos?

While Oreos are commonly used for this recipe, you can certainly experiment with other types of cookies. Chocolate sandwich cookies or any similar sandwich cookies can be used as a substitute for Oreos.