
Grinch Oreo Balls bring instant holiday cheer with their vibrant green topping and festive decorations. They are the ultimate combination of classic cookies and creamy filling all dressed up for the season. Perfect for gifting or sharing at parties these little treats deliver a burst of peppermint goodness with every bite.
My family gets excited every year when I make these Grinch Oreo Balls. I started bringing them to our annual holiday cookie swap and now they vanish faster than anything else on the tray.
Ingredients
- Oreo cookies: Crumbled finely to give that rich chocolatey base
- Cream cheese: Softened so it blends smoothly and binds everything together
- Peppermint extract: Adds cool festive flavor use a pure extract for best taste
- Green candy melts: For the signature Grinch color go for a quality brand for smooth melting
- White candy melts: Optional for a clean drizzle look
- Red candy melts or edible red glitter: Brings a fun pop of color on top
- Green sprinkles: For sparkle and extra holiday spirit
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Base:
- Combine the finely crushed Oreo cookies with softened cream cheese in a large bowl. Use a sturdy spatula or your hands to blend until the mixture is evenly moist and smooth with no streaks of cream cheese left.
- Flavor the Mixture:
- Add the peppermint extract to the Oreo and cream cheese mixture. Stir thoroughly to distribute the peppermint evenly so every bite has that signature cool twist.
- Shape the Balls:
- Pinch off chunks of dough and roll them into small one inch balls. Line them up on a baking sheet covered in parchment paper. Try to make them similar sizes for even coating later.
- Chill for Structure:
- Pop the tray of rolled balls into the refrigerator and let them chill for about fifteen to twenty minutes. This helps them firm up so they hold their shape when coated.
- Melt the Coating:
- Place the green candy melts in a microwave safe bowl and melt according to the package instructions. Stir until completely smooth and fluid. If you want to add white drizzle melt the white candy melts in a separate bowl the same way.
- Dip and Decorate:
- Working with one ball at a time dip each chilled ball into the melted green candy. Use a fork to lift it out and let excess coating drip back into the bowl. Return each ball to the parchment lined tray.
- Add the Festive Touches:
- If using decorate with white candy drizzle while the green coating is still soft. Quickly add a dab of red candy melt or edible glitter and sprinkle a pinch of green sprinkles on top.
- Final Chill:
- Refrigerate the decorated Oreo balls for at least thirty minutes. This firms up the coating and sets the toppings so everything stays put when you serve them.

My favorite part is swirling the green candy over the chilled balls. It looks just like the animated holiday classic and the peppermint scent reminds me of decorating cookies with my niece every December. These little treats bring out big smiles in my house.
Storage Tips
Store Grinch Oreo Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If making ahead for parties layer parchment paper between them so the decorations stay perfect. You can also freeze them after decorating. Let them thaw in the fridge before serving for best texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a milder mint flavor substitute vanilla extract for peppermint. For a dairy free option use vegan cream cheese. No green candy melts on hand No problem simply use white melts and tint with a dash of gel food coloring. Feel free to swap out the decorations for different colors based on your party theme.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grinch Oreo Balls on a festive tray or as part of a cookie platter. Kids love adding them to holiday lunchboxes. They also make fantastic edible gifts wrapped in clear bags with a ribbon. For a bigger dessert display nestle them among chocolate truffles fudge or shortbread for extra variety.

In all honesty these Grinch Oreo Balls are my go to when I want something cute and fuss free that never fails to get a reaction. The peppermint makes them stand out from the usual holiday desserts and they are always the first plate I run out of no matter the party.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different flavors of Oreos?
Yes, you can substitute original Oreos with flavored varieties for a unique twist on the classic taste.
- → How do I melt candy melts smoothly?
Melt candy melts in short bursts in the microwave or over a double boiler, stirring until silky and lump-free.
- → Do I need to use peppermint extract?
Peppermint extract adds a festive note but can be omitted or replaced with vanilla if preferred.
- → How long do these treats stay fresh?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they stay fresh for up to one week.
- → What's the best way to decorate?
Quickly add sprinkles and glitter before the coating sets to ensure toppings adhere and retain color.
- → Can I freeze them for later?
Yes, freeze finished balls in a sealed container; thaw in the fridge before serving for best texture.