No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs

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!

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