Who doesn’t love the rich, chocolatey goodness of Oreo cookies combined with the peanut butter decadence of Reese’s? Enter Reese’s Oreo Balls—a no-bake treat that’s as simple as it is addictive. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick dessert fix, or wanting to impress guests without breaking a sweat, this recipe is a go-to winner.
Ingredients Needed
To whip up a batch of Reese’s Oreo Balls, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients:
- Oreo cookies (1 standard pack, crushed)
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened)
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (4–6 cups, finely chopped)
- Chocolate chips (12 ounces, for coating)
- Peanut butter (optional, for drizzling)
Substitutions and Variations:
- Swap regular Oreos with gluten-free or golden Oreos for a twist.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a less sweet coating.
- Replace Reese’s cups with chopped Snickers or another favorite candy.
Tools Required
No fancy equipment is needed, but these tools will make the process seamless:
Must-Have Tools:
- Food processor or ziplock bag and rolling pin (to crush Oreos)
- Mixing bowl and spatula
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Forks or skewers for dipping
Alternatives:
- If you don’t have a food processor, crush Oreos manually in a sealed bag.
- For coating, a toothpick works in place of dipping forks.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Prep Your Ingredients
- Start by crushing the Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor or a rolling pin.
- In a large bowl, combine the Oreo crumbs with softened cream cheese until the mixture forms a smooth dough.
Add Reese’s Magic
- Gently fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for that irresistible peanut butter flavor.
Form the Balls
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes to firm up.
Coat with Chocolate
- Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Return the coated balls to the baking sheet.
Step 5: Decorate and Set
- Optional: Drizzle melted peanut butter or sprinkle crushed Oreos over the coated balls.
- Let the chocolate set completely, either at room temperature or in the fridge.
Tips for Perfect Reese’s Oreo Balls
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for easier mixing.
- To avoid a sticky mess, lightly grease your hands when rolling the balls.
- For glossy chocolate, add a teaspoon of coconut oil to the melted chocolate.
Flavor Variations to Try
Reese’s Oreo Balls are incredibly versatile, and you can customize them to suit your taste. Here are some fun flavor ideas to try:
Peanut Butter Alternatives
- Swap Reese’s cups for Nutella to create a hazelnut-chocolate twist.
- Use almond butter cups for a nutty variation with a milder flavor.
Adding a Surprise Center
- Insert a mini marshmallow or a caramel candy in the center before rolling the dough.
- Experiment with chopped pretzels for a salty crunch in every bite.
Seasonal Spins
- Add a dash of pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired treat.
- Use festive sprinkles to match holiday themes like Christmas or Easter.
Storage and Shelf Life
These delectable treats are easy to make ahead, and storing them properly ensures they stay fresh and delicious.
How to Store Reese’s Oreo Balls
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Freezer: Freeze the balls (before or after dipping in chocolate) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Pro Tip:
For the best texture, let refrigerated or frozen Oreo balls sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Healthier Alternatives
Love the idea of Reese’s Oreo Balls but looking for a lighter option? Here’s how to make them healthier without compromising taste:
Reducing Sugar Content
- Use reduced-sugar Oreos and opt for natural peanut butter without added sugars.
- Choose a low-sugar or unsweetened chocolate for coating.
Adding Nutritional Value
- Substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt cream cheese for added protein.
- Mix in a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseed meal for an added health boost.
Perfect Occasions for Reese’s Oreo Balls
These bite-sized delights are perfect for a variety of occasions. Here’s how you can use them to wow your guests:
Festive Celebrations
- Serve them at birthdays, weddings, or baby showers for a crowd-pleasing dessert.
- Decorate them with edible glitter or colored chocolate to match the theme.
Gifting Ideas
- Pack them in decorative boxes or jars for thoughtful holiday gifts.
- Attach a handwritten recipe card for a personal touch.
Pairing Suggestions
Enhance the experience of indulging in Reese’s Oreo Balls by pairing them with complementary beverages and desserts.
Drinks
- Serve with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for a classic pairing.
- For adults, pair them with a sweet dessert wine or a creamy liqueur like Baileys.
Dessert Combos
- Add Reese’s Oreo Balls to a dessert platter alongside brownies, cookies, and cupcakes.
- Use them as a topping for ice cream sundaes.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values for one Reese’s Oreo Ball (based on a standard recipe):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 120–140 kcal |
Fat | 7–8 g |
Carbohydrates | 15–17 g |
Protein | 2–3 g |
Portion Control Tips:
- Keep the size small (1-inch diameter) to maintain moderate calorie counts.
- Limit yourself to 2–3 balls per serving to enjoy responsibly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even though the recipe is straightforward, a few hiccups can happen. Here’s how to fix them:
1: Mixture Too Sticky
- Solution: Chill the dough for 10–15 minutes before rolling.
2: Chocolate Coating Cracks
- Solution: Let the balls warm slightly before dipping if they are too cold.
3: Chocolate Won’t Stick
- Solution: Pat the Oreo balls dry with a paper towel if they’ve become moist.
DIY Reese’s Cups vs. Reese’s Oreo Balls
While Reese’s cups are a classic favorite, Reese’s Oreo Balls offer a fun and customizable twist. Here’s how they differ:
Feature | Reese’s Cups | Reese’s Oreo Balls |
Prep Time | Longer | Quick and easy |
Flavor Options | Limited | Highly customizable |
Skill Level | Moderate | Beginner-friendly |
Kids in the Kitchen
Reese’s Oreo Balls are a fantastic activity to involve kids in. It’s messy but oh-so-fun! Here’s how:
Simple Tasks for Kids
- Crushing Oreos using a rolling pin (under supervision).
- Rolling the dough into balls or sprinkling decorations.
Kid-Friendly Modifications
- Use candy coating in bright colors for a playful look.
- Add rainbow sprinkles or edible glitter for extra flair.
Conclusion
Reese’s Oreo Balls are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the heavenly combo of chocolate and peanut butter. With their simple preparation, endless flavor variations, and universal appeal, they’re sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re making them for a celebration or indulging in a sweet snack, these no-bake delights deliver big on flavor with minimal effort.
FAQs
- Can I make Reese’s Oreo Balls without a food processor?
Yes, simply crush the Oreos in a ziplock bag using a rolling pin. - How long do Reese’s Oreo Balls last in the fridge?
They stay fresh for up to 1 week when stored in an airtight container. - Can I use white chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Absolutely! White chocolate makes for a sweeter, more decorative option. - Are Reese’s Oreo Balls gluten-free?
You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free Oreos and Reese’s. - Can I prepare these ahead of time for a party?
Yes, you can make them a day or two ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer until ready to serve.
Reese’s Oreo Balls
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Reese’s Oreo Balls are the ultimate no-bake dessert, blending the creamy, nutty taste of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups with the classic sweetness of Oreos. These bite-sized treats are dipped in luscious chocolate, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making them for parties, holidays, or just as a personal indulgence, they’re always a hit!
Ingredients
- 24 Oreo cookies (classic or double-stuffed)
- 4 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz chocolate (dark, milk, or white) for coating
- Optional toppings: Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or drizzled white chocolate
Instructions
- Crush the Oreos:
Use a food processor to crush Oreos into fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, place them in a sealed bag and crush them with a rolling pin. - Mix with Cream Cheese:
In a mixing bowl, combine the Oreo crumbs with softened cream cheese. Mix until the dough comes together into a sticky, uniform consistency. - Add Reese’s Pieces:
Fold in chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for a delicious peanut butter surprise in every bite. - Shape the Balls:
Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. - Chill the Balls:
Refrigerate the balls for about 20 minutes or until firm. - Melt the Chocolate:
Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler. Stir until smooth. - Coat the Balls:
Dip each ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing it back onto the parchment paper. - Decorate and Set:
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with toppings or drizzle extra chocolate. Allow the coating to set completely in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, reserve some Oreo crumbs or Reese’s pieces for sprinkling on top.
- Keep them in the fridge to maintain their shape and texture, especially in warmer climates.
- Substitute Reese’s with other candies like Snickers or M&Ms for a fun twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes