Introduction
Thereβs something magical about the holiday season that brings families together, especially in the kitchen. One of our favorite traditions is making Oreo Balls for Christmas. These delightful treats are not only incredibly easy to prepare, but they also disappear faster than you can say βHappy Holidays!β Each bite is a creamy, chocolatey explosion that everyoneβfrom kids to grandparentsβloves. This year, as we rolled out batch after batch, I was reminded of how these sweet morsels create memories and spark joy. So, let me share this fun and festive recipe that will undoubtedly become a staple in your holiday celebrations!
Ingredients
- 1 package (14 oz) Oreo cookies, finely crushed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 12 oz white chocolate, melted
- 12 oz milk or dark chocolate, melted
- Red and green sprinkles or colored icing for decoration
Instructions
Prepare the Oreo Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies and softened cream cheese.
- Mix thoroughly until it becomes a dough-like consistency. You can use a spatula or your hands to ensure everything is well combined.
Form the Balls
- Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a small ball with your hands.
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill
- Refrigerate the Oreo balls for about 30 minutes, or until they are firm enough to handle. This step is crucial as it helps the balls hold their shape when coated in chocolate.
Coat in Chocolate
- Once the Oreo balls have chilled, dip them in the melted white chocolate or milk/dark chocolate.
- Use a fork to lift them out, allowing the excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back on the baking sheet.
Decorate
- Before the chocolate sets, drizzle with red and green icing or sprinkle with Christmas sprinkles for a festive look.
Set
- Let the coated Oreo balls set at room temperature or in the fridge until the chocolate hardens.
Serve and Enjoy
- Store the Oreo balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator and serve when ready.
Nutrition Facts
- Yield: About 24 Oreo balls
- Calories: 120 kcal per Oreo ball
- Serving Size: 1 Oreo ball
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
How to Serve
- As a Dessert: Place Oreo balls on a decorative platter to serve after dinner.
- Gift Giving: Package in festive boxes or jars for homemade gifts.
- At Parties: Set out on a dessert table for guests to enjoy.
- For Kids: Use colorful icing and sprinkles for a fun touch that kids will love.
Additional Tips
- For a Smoother Texture: Pulse the Oreos in a food processor until finely ground before mixing with cream cheese.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavors of Oreos, such as peppermint or golden Oreos.
- Chocolate Options: Try using flavored chocolate melts for a unique twist, like dark chocolate or mint chocolate.
- Dipping Techniques: Use a toothpick inserted into each ball to make dipping easier, then remove it before setting on the parchment.
- Storage: Keep the Oreo balls in the fridge to maintain their firmness and freshness.
Recipe Variations
- Peanut Butter Oreo Balls: Substitute the cream cheese with peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
- Mint Oreo Balls: Use Mint Oreos and dark chocolate for a refreshing twist.
- Caramel Drizzle: After coating with chocolate, drizzle with caramel sauce for added sweetness.
- Nutty Coating: Roll the balls in chopped nuts or crushed candy canes for an extra crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions
- With Coffee or Hot Chocolate: These sweet treats pair perfectly with a warm beverage.
- Ice Cream Sundae: Crumble an Oreo ball on top of vanilla ice cream for a delicious sundae.
- Christmas Desserts: Include Oreo balls on a platter alongside other holiday sweets, such as cookies and brownies.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: Oreo balls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.
- Thawing: To thaw, simply move them to the refrigerator a few hours before serving.
FAQ Section
1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese works well, but it may alter the texture slightly.
2. How do I store leftover Oreo balls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
3. Can I make these in advance?
Absolutely! You can make them up to a week in advance and store them in the fridge.
4. Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes, feel free to use any chocolate you likeβwhite, milk, dark, or even a blend.
5. Whatβs the best way to crush Oreos?
You can use a food processor for a fine crumb or place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
6. Can I add flavorings to the chocolate?
Yes! Add a few drops of peppermint extract or vanilla extract to the melted chocolate for extra flavor.
7. How do I make the sprinkles stick?
Sprinkle the decorations on the chocolate before it sets to ensure they stick.
8. Can I use dairy-free chocolate?
Yes, you can use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan option.
9. What if I donβt have parchment paper?
You can use wax paper, or lightly grease the baking sheet instead.
10. Can I use different fillings instead of cream cheese?
Yes, consider using mascarpone cheese, flavored cream cheese, or nut butters.
Conclusion
Oreo Balls are the perfect holiday treat that brings smiles to faces young and old. With their simple preparation, delicious flavor, and endless customization options, these delightful bites are bound to become a favorite in your holiday traditions. Whether youβre hosting a party, attending a gathering, or simply enjoying a quiet night in, these treats are sure to spread joy and sweetness. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to make some magical memories this Christmas season!
PrintOreo Balls for Christmas π
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 24 Oreo balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These delicious Oreo Balls are a festive treat perfect for the holiday season. Combining crushed Oreo cookies and cream cheese, these bite-sized delights are dipped in melted chocolate and decorated with colorful sprinkles, making them a delightful addition to any Christmas celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 package (14 oz) Oreo cookies, finely crushed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 12 oz white chocolate, melted
- 12 oz milk or dark chocolate, melted
- Red and green sprinkles or colored icing for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the Oreo Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies and softened cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until it becomes a dough-like consistency.
- Form the Balls: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a small ball with your hands. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill: Refrigerate the Oreo balls for about 30 minutes, or until they are firm enough to handle.
- Coat in Chocolate: Once the Oreo balls have chilled, dip them in the melted white chocolate or milk/dark chocolate. Use a fork to lift them out, allowing the excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back on the baking sheet.
- Decorate: Before the chocolate sets, drizzle with red and green icing, or sprinkle with Christmas sprinkles for a festive look.
- Set: Let the coated Oreo balls set at room temperature or in the fridge until the chocolate hardens.
- Serve and Enjoy: Store the Oreo balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator and serve when ready.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, you can pulse the Oreos in a food processor until finely ground before mixing them with the cream cheese.
- For a twist, try using different flavors of Oreo cookies, like peppermint or golden Oreos, for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Oreo ball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg