These festive no-bake peppermint bark snowballs are the perfect holiday treat. With a rich chocolate center, a creamy white chocolate coating, and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint, they’re as delicious as they are beautiful. Ideal for parties, gift boxes, or a fun family activity, these snowballs are sure to become a holiday favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No oven required: A quick and simple dessert.
- Festive flavor: Classic peppermint and chocolate combination.
- Kid-friendly: Fun to make with little helpers.
- Perfect for gifting: They look as delightful as they taste.
Ingredients
- 2 cups crushed chocolate wafer cookies or chocolate graham crackers
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup white chocolate chips (or chopped white chocolate)
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Spoon or small cookie scoop
Step-by-Step Instructions
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the crushed chocolate wafer cookies, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder until well blended.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the melted butter and peppermint extract. Mix until the ingredients come together to form a moist, moldable dough.
Shape the Snowballs: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball between your palms. Place the ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Chill the Snowballs: Refrigerate the snowballs for about 30 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch.
Melt the White Chocolate: Place the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
Coat the Snowballs: Dip each chilled snowball into the melted white chocolate, letting the excess drip off. Return the coated snowball to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Add Crushed Peppermint: Immediately sprinkle the tops of the coated snowballs with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies.
Set and Serve: Let the snowballs sit at room temperature or refrigerate until the white chocolate coating has fully hardened. Once set, serve and enjoy!
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Coating: Swap white chocolate for melted dark chocolate for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Peppermint Drizzle: Instead of fully coating the snowballs, drizzle melted white chocolate over the tops and sprinkle with crushed peppermint.
- Add a Crunch: Mix in crushed peppermint candies or mini chocolate chips into the dough for extra texture.
- Alcohol-Infused: Add 1-2 teaspoons of peppermint schnapps for an adult-friendly twist.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve chilled or at room temperature. Arrange them on a festive platter for a holiday display.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze the uncoated snowballs for up to 1 month. Thaw, coat in chocolate, and decorate when ready to serve.
Helpful Notes and Tips
- Crush the cookies finely: Use a food processor for a fine, even texture that binds well.
- Work quickly with chocolate: Melted white chocolate can harden fast, so dip and decorate one snowball at a time.
- Room temperature matters: Ensure the butter is fully melted, and work with room-temperature peppermint extract for the best consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use store-bought crushed cookies?
Yes, store-bought chocolate cookie crumbs work perfectly.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make them a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
3. Can I substitute white chocolate chips with candy melts?
Yes, candy melts are a great alternative and easier to work with for coating.
4. What if I don’t like peppermint?
Swap the peppermint extract with vanilla or almond extract for a different flavor profile.
5. How can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free chocolate cookies or graham crackers in place of regular ones.
These no-bake peppermint bark snowballs are a delightful addition to any holiday dessert spread. With their refreshing peppermint kick and creamy chocolate coating, they’re a treat that captures the spirit of the season!