Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Apple OREO Balls are not only delicious but also visually striking. The combination of crunchy OREO cookies and creamy cream cheese creates a perfect base for a sweet, tangy apple-inspired decoration. The candy melt coating adds a vibrant red color, while the pretzel sticks and spearmint leaves give a fun nod to the shape of apples, making these treats both tasty and adorable. Perfect for any occasion, these OREO balls are simple to make and always impress.
Ingredients
- 1 pkg Oreo Cookies
- 8 oz Cream Cheese
- 1 pkg Red Candy Melts
- Pretzel Sticks
- Spearmint Leaves candy
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Begin by crushing the OREO cookies. Place them in a food processor and pulse until they turn into fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, you can also place the cookies in a sealed plastic bag and crush them using a rolling pin.
- In a large bowl, combine the crushed OREO cookies with the softened cream cheese. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Roll the OREO mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the balls in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- While the balls are chilling, melt the red candy melts according to the package instructions, either in a microwave or on a stovetop.
- Once the OREO balls are firm, dip each ball into the melted candy melts, covering it completely. Use a fork or spoon to help with dipping and tapping off excess candy coating.
- Immediately after dipping, insert a pretzel stick into the top of each ball to resemble the stem of an apple.
- Place a spearmint leaf candy on top of each ball for the apple leaf.
- Allow the candy coating to set by placing the OREO balls back in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes, or until the coating is firm.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 20-25 Apple OREO Balls, depending on the size of the balls you roll.
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chilling time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45-50 minutes
Variations
- Different Candy Coatings: You can use other colored candy melts, such as green or yellow, for different variations of the apple theme.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add a little cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture to give your OREO balls an apple pie twist.
- Nut Coating: For a crunchy twist, try rolling the dipped OREO balls in chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture.
- Mini Size: If you prefer smaller treats, simply roll the OREO balls into smaller sizes for bite-sized versions.
Storage/Reheating
Store the Apple OREO Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container, and when ready to eat, let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
FAQs
Can I make these Apple OREO Balls ahead of time?
Yes, these balls can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Can I use a different type of cookie for the base?
While the recipe calls for OREO cookies, you can experiment with other types of cookies like chocolate sandwich cookies or even graham crackers if you prefer a different flavor.
Do I have to use candy melts for the coating?
Candy melts work best for a smooth, colorful coating, but you can substitute with white or milk chocolate if preferred. Just make sure to melt it carefully.
Can I skip the pretzel sticks and spearmint leaves?
Yes, you can leave them out if you prefer a simpler design or don’t have them on hand. The OREO balls will still be delicious!
Can I use flavored candy melts?
Definitely! You can use flavored candy melts like green or yellow to create different apple varieties, or even combine colors for a fun look.
How do I store the Apple OREO Balls?
Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I make these without the cream cheese?
Cream cheese is necessary to bind the OREO cookie crumbs and give the balls their creamy texture. You can try using another type of soft cheese like mascarpone if you prefer, but the consistency and flavor will be different.
How do I prevent the candy melts from hardening too quickly?
Work in small batches when dipping the OREO balls to ensure the candy melts stay warm and easy to dip. If the candy melts harden, simply reheat them gently in the microwave.
Can I add sprinkles to the coating?
Yes! Adding sprinkles, especially green ones, can enhance the apple look and make the balls even more festive.
Are these OREO balls safe for kids?
Yes, these Apple OREO Balls are kid-friendly and make a fun treat for children, especially when they help decorate them with the pretzel sticks and spearmint leaves.
Conclusion
Apple OREO Balls are a fun, creative, and irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a festive and delicious snack that everyone will enjoy. The combination of creamy OREO filling and vibrant candy melt coating, topped with pretzel “stems” and spearmint “leaves,” makes these a treat you’ll want to make over and over again. Whether for a holiday gathering or a special dessert, these apple-inspired treats are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face!
Print
Apple OREO Balls
These fun and festive Apple OREO Balls combine crunchy OREO cookies and creamy cream cheese, coated in vibrant red candy melts. Topped with pretzel sticks and spearmint leaves, these sweet and tart apple-inspired treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or any time you want to indulge in a creative and delicious snack!
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 20-25 Apple OREO Balls
Ingredients
1 pkg Oreo Cookies
8 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
1 pkg Red Candy Melts
Pretzel Sticks
Spearmint Leaves candy
Instructions
-
Crush the OREO cookies by pulsing them in a food processor until fine crumbs form, or place them in a sealed plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
-
In a large bowl, combine the crushed OREO cookies with softened cream cheese. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
-
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
-
Freeze the balls for about 30 minutes to firm up.
-
While the balls are chilling, melt the red candy melts according to package instructions (microwave or stovetop).
-
Once firm, dip each OREO ball into the melted candy melts, covering them completely. Use a fork or spoon to assist with dipping and tapping off excess candy coating.
-
Insert a pretzel stick into the top of each ball to resemble the apple stem.
-
Place a spearmint leaf candy on top to represent the apple leaf.
-
Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes until the coating sets.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
These OREO balls are customizable—try using green or yellow candy melts, or add sprinkles for a festive touch.
For a fun twist, add cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture for an apple pie flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-bake, Dipping
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian