If you are looking for the ultimate no-bake treat that combines the refreshing zing of peppermint with the rich, indulgent crunch of chocolate, look no further. These Mint Oreo Balls (often called Mint Oreo Truffles) are a staple for holiday dessert platters, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, or any time you need a high-impact dessert with minimal effort.
With only a handful of ingredients and zero time spent in the oven, these truffles achieve a professional “candy shop” look that belies how simple they are to make. The secret lies in the perfect ratio of mint-creme cookies to tangy cream cheese, creating a fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth interior that is perfectly balanced by a crisp chocolate shell.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Mint Oreo Balls Recipe
- No-Bake Simplicity: No need to turn on the oven. This recipe is perfect for hot days or when your oven is already occupied by a main course.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Chocolate and mint is a timeless flavor profile. Whether you’re gifting these in a tin or serving them on a pedestal, they disappear fast.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These actually taste better after the flavors have had a chance to meld in the fridge. You can make them up to a week in advance.
- Customizable Aesthetics: As seen in our photos, you can play with green candy melts, dark chocolate drizzles, and festive sprinkles to match any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Truffle Center
- 36 Mint Oreo Cookies: Use the standard size, not Double Stuf, as the extra creme can make the mixture too soft to roll.
- 8 oz Cream Cheese: Full-fat brick cream cheese is essential for the right structure. Soften it to room temperature.
- 1/4 tsp Peppermint Extract: (Optional) If you want an extra “cool” punch beyond what the cookies provide.
For the Coating and Decoration
- 12 oz Green Candy Melts: For that vibrant minty look.
- 8 oz Semi-Sweet or Dark Chocolate Chips: For the classic chocolate-covered version.
- 1 tbsp Coconut Oil: Divided, to help the chocolate flow smoothly for dipping.
- Mint Sprinkles or Crushed Oreos: For a textured topping.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cookie Crumbs
Place the Mint Oreo cookies (entire cookie, including the filling) into a food processor. Pulse until the cookies have turned into fine, uniform crumbs. There should be no large chunks remaining, as these will make the balls difficult to roll smoothly.
2. Combine with Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine the fine cookie crumbs and the softened cream cheese. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, blend until the white cream cheese has completely disappeared and you are left with a dark, moist, dough-like consistency. If using peppermint extract, fold it in now.
3. Roll into Uniform Balls
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll it between your palms to create smooth, 1-inch spheres. Place them on the prepared sheet.
4. The Essential Chill
Place the tray of rolled balls into the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This step is non-negotiable; if the balls are room temperature when you dip them, they will fall apart in the warm chocolate or leave crumbs in your coating.
5. Dip and Decorate
Melt your green candy melts and dark chocolate in separate microwave-safe bowls in 30-second increments, stirring in a teaspoon of coconut oil to each for a glossy finish. Using a fork or a dipping tool, submerge each chilled ball into the coating. Tap off the excess and return to the parchment paper. Immediately add sprinkles before the coating sets.
6. Serve
Once the coating is completely firm (about 15 minutes in the fridge), transfer the Mint Oreo Balls to a serving platter. For the best texture, serve them slightly chilled.
Expert Tips for Success
- Avoid “Double Stuf”: The higher ratio of frosting to cookie in Double Stuf Oreos makes the truffle mixture too oily and soft. Stick to the original Mint Oreos for the best structural integrity.
- The Fork Method: When dipping, don’t “roll” the ball in the chocolate. Place it on a fork, submerge, and lift. Tap the fork against the side of the bowl to let the excess drip through the tines for a professional, thin shell.
- Room Temp Cream Cheese: Trying to mix cold cream cheese with cookie crumbs will result in white lumps. Let the cheese sit on the counter for at least an hour before starting.
Variations
- White Chocolate Mint: Use white chocolate as the base coating and tint it with oil-based food coloring (not water-based, or it will seize) for a pastel green look.
- Boozy Truffles: Replace the peppermint extract with 1 tablespoon of Peppermint Schnapps for an adult-only version.
- Andes Mint Topping: Instead of sprinkles, chop up Andes Mints and press them into the top of the wet chocolate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I store Mint Oreo Balls? Because they contain cream cheese, these must be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. they will stay fresh for up to 7–10 days.
Can I freeze them? Yes! These freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Why is my chocolate cracking? Cracking usually happens if the balls are too cold (frozen solid) and the chocolate is too hot. Let the balls sit out for 5 minutes after taking them from the freezer before dipping.
Mint Oreo Balls
Ingredients
Method
- Pulse Mint Oreos in a food processor until they reach a fine crumb consistency.
- Beat the softened cream cheese and cookie crumbs together until a smooth dough forms.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze the balls for at least 30 minutes to ensure they are firm enough for dipping.
- Melt the candy melts and chocolate. Dip each chilled ball using a fork, tapping off excess coating.
- Top with sprinkles immediately and refrigerate until the shells are set. Serve chilled.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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