Christmas Oreo Balls are a fun and festive treat that combine the rich taste of crushed Oreos with creamy cream cheese, all covered in a smooth layer of chocolate. These little bites are both crunchy and creamy, making them an absolute crowd-pleaser during the holiday season. Plus, their cute little shapes and decorations add a perfect touch of Christmas cheer.
I love making these Oreo balls because they’re so simple to prepare and don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients—just Oreos, cream cheese, and chocolate! They’re one of those recipes where you can get the whole family involved, especially when it comes to dipping and decorating them. I always find it fun to experiment with sprinkles or festive drizzle patterns to give them an extra holiday sparkle.
My favorite way to serve Christmas Oreo Balls is on a pretty plate at holiday parties or as a sweet surprise in Christmas goodie bags. They disappear quickly because everyone loves their perfect bite-sized mix of flavors and textures. For me, these little treats bring back warm memories of gatherings with friends and family, sharing laughs and snacks around the tree. They really bring the joy of the holidays together in one bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Oreos: The classic chocolate Oreo cookies give these treats their signature flavor and crunch. If you want a fun twist, try chocolate-free sandwich cookies for allergy-friendly options.
Cream Cheese: This softens and binds the crushed cookies into a smooth dough. For a lighter version, you can use Neufchâtel cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute.
White Chocolate or Candy Melts: These create the festive coating around the balls. Candy melts are easy to work with, but good-quality white chocolate adds a richer taste.
Dark or Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Used for drizzling. If you prefer less sweetness, dark chocolate is great, while semi-sweet balances nicely with the white coating.
Crushed Candy Canes: They add a peppermint crunch and holiday feel. You can substitute with colored sprinkles or chopped nuts if you want to switch things up.
How Do You Make Smooth, Perfectly Coated Oreo Balls?
Coating Oreo balls in chocolate can be tricky. Here are some tips to get a smooth and even finish:
- Chill the balls: Freezing them before dipping helps the coating set quickly and prevents the balls from falling apart.
- Use the right chocolate: Melting it gently in short bursts and stirring keeps it smooth. Avoid overheating to prevent clumps or burning.
- Dipping technique: Use a fork or dipping tool to fully cover the ball, gently tap off excess chocolate, and place it on parchment paper to set.
- Work quickly: Add sprinkles or crushed candy canes while the chocolate is still wet so they stick well.
By following these simple steps, your Oreo balls will have a beautiful, even coating that sets nicely for serving or gifting.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Food processor or zip-top bag and rolling pin – I use this to crush the Oreos evenly and smoothly.
- Mixing bowls – for combining the crushed Oreos and cream cheese and for melting chocolate.
- Baking sheet with parchment paper – to hold the Oreo balls while they set and decorate.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – to measure and shape the balls consistently.
- Microwave-safe bowls – for melting white chocolate and dark chocolate.
- Fork or dipping tools – to coat the balls in chocolate without mess.
- Sprinkles or crushed candy canes – for decorating and adding a festive touch.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Mix in chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or mini chocolate chips into the Oreo mixture for added texture.
- Replace the peppermint candies with colorful sprinkles or chocolate shavings for variety.
- Add a splash of peppermint or vanilla extract to the cream cheese for extra flavor.
Christmas Oreo Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 36 Oreo cookies (about 1 package)
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 16 oz (450g) white chocolate or white candy melts
- 4 oz (110g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, melted (for drizzle)
- Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active prep time, plus 20-30 minutes of freezing to firm the balls. You’ll also want to allow a few extra minutes for the chocolate coating to fully set, either at room temperature or in the fridge. Overall, expect about 45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Crush the Oreos:
Put the Oreo cookies in a food processor and pulse until they turn into fine crumbs. If you don’t have a processor, seal the cookies in a plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin until finely ground.
2. Mix with Cream Cheese:
Transfer the crushed Oreos to a large bowl. Add the softened cream cheese and mix until it forms a smooth, dough-like mixture.
3. Shape the Balls:
Roll portions of the mixture into 1 to 1.5 inch balls using your hands. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Freeze to Firm Up:
Put the Oreo balls in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes so they become firm and easier to dip in chocolate.
5. Melt the White Chocolate:
Warm the white chocolate or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl using 30-second bursts, stirring well between each until smooth and fully melted.
6. Coat the Oreo Balls:
Use a fork or dipping tool to dip each ball completely into the melted white chocolate. Lift and allow any excess chocolate to drip off, then place back on the parchment paper.
7. Decorate:
Let the white chocolate coating set for a few minutes. Then drizzle melted semi-sweet or dark chocolate over each ball for a pretty touch.
8. Add Garnish:
While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the top for a festive look.
9. Set the Coating:
Allow the chocolate to fully harden at room temperature or chill the Oreo balls in the fridge until set.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Your delicious Christmas Oreo Balls are now ready to share! Keep them stored chilled or at room temperature for best taste.
Can I Use Frozen Cream Cheese?
It’s best to use softened cream cheese for this recipe to ensure a smooth mixture. If your cream cheese is frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bring it to room temperature before mixing.
How Should I Store Leftover Oreo Balls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I Substitute the Candy Canes?
Absolutely! If you don’t have candy canes, try crushed peppermint candies, holiday-themed sprinkles, or chopped nuts for a different festive look and flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Melt Chocolate Without Burning It?
Microwave the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent overheating. Alternatively, melt it gently using a double boiler on low heat.