Peppermint Oreo Truffles

Ingredients

Ingredient notes & substitutions

Oreos:

Use regular Oreos, filling and all — the cream helps bind the truffle dough. No need to scrape anything out.

Cream cheese:

Full-fat, softened cream cheese binds the crumbs into a smooth, rollable dough. Let it come to room temperature first.

Peppermint extract:

Just 1/4 teaspoon gives a cool, festive flavor. It's strong, so measure carefully — you can always add a touch more.

White chocolate:

Real white chocolate tastes best; vanilla almond bark or candy melts are the easiest to work with and set firm and glossy.

Candy canes:

Crush them fairly fine so they stick to the coating and add a festive red-and-white crunch.

Method

1. 1

   In a food processor, crush the Oreos (filling and all) into fine crumbs.

   
2. 2

   Add the softened cream cheese and peppermint extract and pulse until the mixture comes together into a dough.

   
3. 3

   Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze for 15 to 20 minutes until firm.

   
4. 4

   Melt the white chocolate until smooth. Dip each ball, letting the excess drip off, and set back on the parchment.

   
5. 5

   Immediately sprinkle each truffle with crushed candy canes before the coating sets.

   
6. 6

   Let the truffles set at room temperature or in the fridge until firm, then serve.

Variations to try

• Use peppermint Oreos or dark chocolate for coating for a different twist.
• Drizzle with contrasting melted chocolate instead of (or with) candy canes.
• Roll the centers in cocoa or crushed cookies instead of dipping for a quick no-dip version.
• Swap peppermint for a little orange or almond extract for a different holiday flavor.

Storage & make-ahead

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They also freeze well for up to 2 months — freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a container, and thaw in the fridge before serving. Add the candy cane sprinkle fresh if freezing, since it can soften over time. Serve slightly chilled for the best creamy texture.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes — they keep for a week in the fridge and freeze for up to 2 months, so they're perfect for making ahead of the holidays.

Why is my coating cracking?

The centers were likely too cold when dipped, or the chocolate too hot. Let the frozen balls sit a minute or two, and don't overheat the chocolate.

Almond bark or real white chocolate?

Almond bark and candy melts are the easiest to dip with and set reliably. Real white chocolate tastes richer but may need a little coconut oil to thin it.

Do I have to use a food processor?

It's easiest, but you can crush the Oreos in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin and mix in the cream cheese by hand.