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These Oreo cookie balls are the ultimate quick and easy holiday treat that always disappears fast at our gatherings. With only four ingredients and a little patience, you get rich, creamy, chocolate-covered bites that everyone loves. They make holiday cookie tins a lot more fun and let you get creative with flavors and toppings all season long.
I remember the first time I made these during a hectic holiday week. They saved me because they are so straightforward, and now they are a requested treat every year by my whole family.
Ingredients
- Oreos: fourteen-ounce package the base of the balls opt for your favorite classic or flavored variations for unique twists
- Cream cheese: eight-ounce package softened makes the mixture creamy and holds it all together use full fat for best texture
- Kosher salt: a pinch balances the sweetness and boosts flavor
- Chocolate chips: twelve-ounce package melted for coating the balls choose good quality semisweet or any candy melts you like for variety
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Scoop and Crush:
- Process the Oreos in a food processor until they become fine crumbs. This fine texture helps everything blend smoothly with the cream cheese.
- Mix the Base:
- Reserve two tablespoons of crumbs for topping. In a medium bowl, combine the remaining Oreo crumbs with softened cream cheese and a pinch of kosher salt. Stir well until the mixture is uniform and creamy.
- Form the Balls:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape the mixture into small balls. Place the formed balls on the sheet, spaced slightly apart.
- Freeze for Firmness:
- Put the tray in the freezer until the balls are slightly hardened, about thirty minutes. This makes coating them with chocolate much easier.
- Coat and Finish:
- Dip each frozen ball into melted chocolate, making sure it is thoroughly covered. Place them back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with the reserved crushed Oreos on top for texture and presentation. Freeze again until the chocolate hardens, about fifteen minutes.
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My favorite part is the crispy coating of chocolate with the soft, creamy center. Making these together with my kids is a fun holiday tradition filled with lots of laughter and chocolate smudges everywhere.
Storage Tips
Store your Oreo cookie balls in an airtight container layered with parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep them in the refrigerator if storing longer than a day or two. They will stay fresh for about two weeks this way and can be pulled out right before serving. If you have any leftover balls, they can also be frozen for up to a month—just thaw in the fridge overnight before eating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a dairy-free version try using a vegan cream cheese substitute that holds up well to mixing. For the chocolate coating, you can swap semisweet chips for white chocolate, dark chocolate, or colorful candy melts depending on your festive flair. Any flavor of Oreos works here too—mint, birthday cake, peanut butter, or even limited editions add fun variety.
Serving Suggestions
These Oreo cookie balls are great on their own or paired with a glass of cold milk for dunking. They also make charming edible gifts when placed in holiday tins or wrapped in clear cellophane with festive ribbons. Try serving them alongside other bite-sized desserts for a delightful cookie platter at parties.
Pro Tips
- Make sure to soften the cream cheese completely so it blends smoothly with the crumbs.
- Don’t skip the freezing step before dipping in chocolate—this helps balls hold their shape perfectly.
- Use a fork or dipping tool to coat evenly and tap off excess chocolate for a sleek finish.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I prevent the balls from cracking?
Freeze the balls before and after dipping in chocolate to help them hold together and avoid cracking when biting.
- → Can I use different cookie flavors?
Absolutely, classic or flavored sandwich cookies like mint or peanut butter work well and add variety to the flavor.
- → What kind of chocolate is best for coating?
Semisweet chocolate chips melt nicely, but any melted chocolate or candy melts can be used for coating.
- → How should I store these treats?
Refrigerate in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. They keep fresh for up to 2 weeks.
- → Can I add toppings to the chocolate layer?
Yes, sprinkle crushed cookies, nuts, sprinkles, or cocoa powder on the chocolate before it sets for extra texture and flavor.