No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs

Introduction

There’s something about the holiday season that calls for indulgent treats, and these No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs certainly hit the mark. When I first made these, I was looking for a quick and easy dessert that would be both festive and delicious—and this recipe certainly delivers. The combination of rich chocolate, the refreshing kick of peppermint, and the smooth white chocolate coating is absolutely irresistible. These snowballs not only look beautiful on a holiday dessert table, but they’re also so easy to make, with no baking required. They’ve quickly become one of my family’s favorite holiday treats, and I’ve made them for gift-giving as well. They’re the perfect addition to any holiday gathering, whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a sweet snack to enjoy by the fire.

Ingredients

Baking & Spices:

• 2 cups crushed chocolate wafer cookies or chocolate graham crackers
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract

Dairy:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Toppings:

• 1 cup white chocolate chips (or chopped white chocolate)
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Instructions

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, mix together the crushed chocolate wafer cookies (or graham crackers), powdered sugar, and cocoa powder until well combined. This will be the base of your snowballs, and the crushed cookies give it that perfect crumbly texture.
2. Add Wet Ingredients:
   Stir in the melted butter and peppermint extract. Mix until everything is fully combined. The mixture should be moist enough to hold together when you shape it into balls.
3. Shape the Snowballs:
   Take about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a small ball. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat this step with the remaining mixture, making sure the snowballs are evenly sized.
4. Chill the Snowballs:
   Place the baking sheet with the shaped snowballs in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until they firm up. Chilling them ensures they hold their shape and makes them easier to coat with the white chocolate.
5. Melt the White Chocolate:
   Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals. Stir the chocolate after each interval until it’s fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat it, as white chocolate can burn easily.
6. Coat the Snowballs:
   Dip each chilled snowball into the melted white chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, place the coated snowballs back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Add Crushed Peppermint:
   Immediately sprinkle the tops of each coated snowball with the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for a festive touch. This adds a nice crunch and enhances the peppermint flavor.
8. Set and Serve:
   Allow the snowballs to set at room temperature, or place them in the fridge for about 15 minutes to speed up the hardening process. Once the white chocolate is completely set, they’re ready to be served!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 snowballs
• Calories per serving: 140
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 45mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Festive Treat: Serve these snowballs on a holiday dessert table or as a fun, bite-sized treat during holiday gatherings.
• Gift Them: These no-bake peppermint bark snowballs are perfect for gifting. Place them in a pretty tin or box, and they make a lovely homemade gift.
• With Hot Beverages: Pair them with a hot cup of cocoa, coffee, or tea. The peppermint flavor is especially delicious alongside these drinks.
• For Snacking: Enjoy them as a quick, sweet snack during the holiday season when you want something indulgent but easy to grab.

Additional Tips

1. Use Different Cookies: Feel free to experiment with other types of cookies in place of chocolate wafers. You can use chocolate graham crackers, Oreos, or even shortbread cookies for a different flavor profile.
2. Increase Peppermint Flavor: If you prefer a stronger peppermint taste, increase the amount of peppermint extract slightly. Just be sure not to overpower it, as peppermint extract is quite potent.
3. Customize the Toppings: Instead of crushed candy canes, you can top your snowballs with mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or colored sprinkles for a fun twist.
4. Let the White Chocolate Set Properly: Allow the white chocolate to cool and set before serving to avoid smudging or melting when touched.
5. Make Mini Snowballs: For a bite-sized version, reduce the size of the snowballs and shorten the chill time accordingly.

Recipe Variations

• Dark Chocolate Version: Use dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a more robust chocolate flavor. You could also mix dark chocolate with white chocolate for a two-tone effect.
• Coconut Snowballs: Roll the snowballs in shredded coconut instead of crushed candy canes for a tropical twist.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan butter and dairy-free white chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly version of these snowballs.
• Minty Snowballs: If you want to make them extra minty, add a few drops of mint extract along with the peppermint extract for a more intense mint flavor.
• Nutty Snowballs: Add finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the mixture before rolling it into balls for an added texture and flavor contrast.

Serving Suggestions

• For Holiday Parties: These snowballs are perfect for any holiday party or gathering. They’re easy to make in large batches and are a fun addition to the dessert table.
• As a Dessert Buffet: Set up a holiday dessert buffet with a variety of treats, and include these peppermint bark snowballs as a fun, colorful option.
• Alongside Other Holiday Desserts: Serve them alongside other festive treats like sugar cookies, gingerbread, and chocolate truffles for a complete dessert spread.
• As Party Favors: Package the snowballs in small treat bags or boxes and hand them out as party favors for guests to take home.
• With Hot Drinks: These snowballs pair beautifully with hot drinks, so consider serving them with hot chocolate or spiced apple cider during the colder months.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing: Store these snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They should maintain their freshness and texture during this time.
• Freezing: These peppermint bark snowballs freeze very well. Place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
• Refrigerating: If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, store them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of chocolate for the coating?
   Yes, you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for the coating.
2. Can I use pre-crushed graham crackers or cookies?
   Yes, pre-crushed graham crackers or cookies can be used. Just make sure they are finely crushed so they stick together well.
3. Can I make these snowballs in advance?
   Yes, these snowballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for later use.
4. How long does it take for the white chocolate to set?
   White chocolate will set in about 15 minutes in the fridge. At room temperature, it may take a little longer.
5. Can I make these snowballs smaller?
   Yes, feel free to make the snowballs smaller for a bite-sized treat. Just be sure to adjust the chilling time accordingly.
6. Can I use peppermint extract instead of crushed candy canes?
   Yes, you can add peppermint extract to the mixture, but crushed candy canes add texture and a festive touch that peppermint extract alone cannot achieve.
7. What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
   You can substitute with mint extract for a similar flavor.
8. Can I add nuts to the mixture?
   Yes, finely chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans can be added to the mixture for extra texture.
9. Can I use flavored cookies instead of chocolate wafer cookies?
   Yes, vanilla or other flavored cookies can work, but the taste will be different.
10. How should I store leftovers?
    Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Conclusion

These No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs are a delightful and festive treat that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season. With their rich chocolate and refreshing

peppermint flavor, they’re perfect for parties, gifting, or enjoying with loved ones. The best part is that they’re so easy to make, requiring no baking and only a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re making them for a holiday dessert table or giving them as homemade gifts, these snowballs are sure to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy these delicious treats this holiday season!

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