These Grinch Oreo Balls are a playful no-bake treat that always brings out smiles. Creamy cookies-and-cream centers get dipped in cheerful green chocolate and topped with a tiny red heart. Perfect for cookie trays, class parties, or a cozy movie night.
Grinch Oreo Balls
Equipment
- 1 Food Processor
- 1 Rolling Pin (optional) for crushing cookies in a bag
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Parchment Paper
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 Microwave-safe Bowl
- 1 Fork
Ingredients
Filling
- 14.3 oz Oreo cookies about 36 cookies; original or chocolate sandwich cookies; any brand works
- 8 oz cream cheese softened; brick style for best texture; Neufch etel works
- 0.5 tsp alcohol-free vanilla optional
Coating and Decoration
- 12 oz green candy melts or white chocolate chips tinted with oil-based green food coloring
- 2 tsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening, to thin as needed
- 30 pieces red heart sprinkles one per ball
Instructions
Make the centers
- Add cookies to a food processor and pulse to fine crumbs. No processor? Seal in a bag and roll with a pin until sandy.
- In a bowl, combine cookie crumbs, softened cream cheese, and alcohol-free vanilla. Stir until a thick, even dough forms and no streaks remain.
- Scoop 1 tablespoon portions onto a parchment lined tray. Chill for 20 to 30 minutes until firm to the touch.
- Roll each portion between your palms to form neat balls. Return to the fridge while you prepare the coating.
Coat and decorate
- Melt green candy melts with a small splash of coconut oil in a microwave safe bowl, 20 to 30 second bursts, stirring between each until smooth. If using white chocolate, melt gently and stir in a few drops of oil-based green coloring.
- Using a fork, dip each chilled ball, tap off excess, and set on parchment. Add one red heart near the top before the coating sets.
- Let the coating firm at room temperature or pop the tray into the fridge for 10 minutes. Enjoy or pack into tins for gifting.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Grinch Oreo Balls
- Fast and fuss free, just a handful of ingredients and no oven.
- Kid approved and great for gifting, parties, and cookie swaps.
- Easy to customize with different cookies, coatings, and sprinkles.
Grinch Oreo Balls Ingredients & Substitutions
- Oreo cookies, original or chocolate sandwich cookies. Any brand works.
- Cream cheese, softened. Brick style gives the best texture. Neufchâtel works too.
- Alcohol-free vanilla, optional, for a mellow bakery-style flavor.
- Green candy melts, or white chocolate chips with oil-based green food coloring.
- Coconut oil or vegetable shortening to thin the coating.
- Red heart sprinkles for the classic Grinch look.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Grinch Oreo Balls
Step 1: Crush the cookies
Add cookies to a food processor and pulse to fine crumbs. No processor? Seal in a bag and roll with a pin until sandy.
Step 2: Mix the filling
In a bowl, combine cookie crumbs, softened cream cheese, and alcohol-free vanilla. Stir until a thick, even dough forms and no streaks remain.
Step 3: Scoop and chill
Scoop 1 tablespoon portions onto a parchment lined tray. Chill for 20 to 30 minutes until firm to the touch.
Step 4: Roll smooth
Roll each portion between your palms to form neat balls. Return to the fridge while you prepare the coating.
Step 5: Melt the coating
Melt green candy melts with a small splash of coconut oil in a microwave safe bowl, 20 to 30 second bursts, stirring between each until smooth. If using white chocolate, melt gently and stir in a few drops of oil-based green coloring.
Step 6: Dip and decorate
Using a fork, dip each chilled ball, tap off excess, and set on parchment. Add one red heart near the top before the coating sets.
Step 7: Set and serve
Let the coating firm at room temperature or pop the tray into the fridge for 10 minutes. Enjoy or pack into tins for gifting.
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature cream cheese so the filling mixes smoothly.
- Do not overheat chocolate. Short bursts with plenty of stirring prevent seizing.
- Keep the centers cold for clean dipping and round shapes.
- Thin thick melts with 1 teaspoon coconut oil at a time until silky.
- Place the heart immediately after dipping so it adheres well.
Variations of Grinch Oreo Balls
- Mint twist: add a few drops of alcohol-free peppermint to the filling.
- Golden Grinch: use golden sandwich cookies and the same green coating.
- Matcha green: tint white chocolate with a little matcha powder for natural color and a gentle tea note.
- Dark side: dip in dark chocolate, then drizzle green over the top.
- Crunchy coat: roll the wet coating in crushed green sprinkles or sanding sugar.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Grinch Oreo Balls
- Hot cocoa, peppermint hot chocolate, or warm milk.
- A festive dessert board with cookies, pretzels, and fresh berries.
- Gift boxes or party favors tied with red ribbon.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for 5 to 7 days.
- Freeze on a sheet tray, then store in a freezer bag up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Best served slightly chilled. No reheating needed, just let sit 5 minutes if very firm.
Memories Made Around the Table
These little green bites have become a sweet tradition in our home. I love letting little hands add the hearts while we sip cocoa and queue up a favorite movie.
FAQs
Can I make these without a food processor?
Yes. Place cookies in a zip top bag and crush with a rolling pin until very fine.
Why is my chocolate thick or clumpy?
It may be overheated or have a bit of water in it. Melt in short bursts and add a teaspoon of coconut oil to loosen.
Do I have to use food coloring?
No. Use green candy melts, or keep the coating white and add a green drizzle or festive sprinkles.
Can I use flavored Oreos?
Absolutely. Mint, chocolate, or seasonal flavors are all delicious.
Final Thoughts
Grinch Oreo Balls are simple, cheerful, and always the first treat to disappear. Make a batch ahead, stash a few in the freezer, and share the joy.