Cookie Balls: A Spin on the Traditional Christmas Cookie

Surf the Web for Christmas cookies and you’ll likely become overwhelmed. But, search for cookie balls and you’ll find some creative recipes that make scrumptious (and super easy) homemade Christmas gifts. Similar to cake pops, cookie balls and pops are becoming quite pop-ular (sorry, couldn’t resist!) in the wonderful world of holiday desserts. Delight your loved ones’ taste buds with these simple recipes—just be careful not to eat them all in the making!

Before you begin, for some preparation tips, watch how to make cookie balls. Once they’re made, package them in cute containers and add a festive bow and gift tag. These bite-size, budget-friendly treats are perfect for everyone on your Christmas list!

1) Peppermint Oreo Cookie Balls

Servings: 48

Needed:

6 candy canes, finely chopped (about 1/3 cup), divided

1 pkg. (8 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened

1 pkg. (16.6 oz.) OREO Cookies, finely crushed

2 pkg. (8 squares each) BAKER’S Semi-Sweet Chocolate, melted

How to Make:

RESERVE 1 Tbsp. chopped candy. Mix remaining candy with cream cheese and cookie crumbs until well blended.

SHAPE into 48 (1-inch) balls. Freeze 10 minutes. Dip balls in melted chocolate; place in single layer in shallow waxed paper-lined pan. Sprinkle with reserved candy.

REFRIGERATE 1 hour or until firm.

2) Christmas Tree Cookie Ball Pops

Servings: 40

Needed:

6 oz. (3/4 of 8-oz. pkg.) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened

1 pkg. (15.25 oz.) OREO Cool Mint Creme Cookies, finely crushed (about 4 cups)

2 pkg. (6 squares each) BAKER’S White Chocolate, melted

6 drops green food coloring

3 Tbsp. green and/or white decorating icings

40 cinnamon red hot candies

How to Make:

MIX cream cheese and cookie crumbs until well blended.

SHAPE into 40 (1-inch) balls; place in single layer in shallow pan. Freeze 10 minutes. Mix melted chocolate and food coloring until well blended. Dip balls in chocolate; place in single layer in shallow waxed paper-lined pan. Insert lollipop stick into each ball. Decorate with decorating icing and candies as shown in photo.

REFRIGERATE 1 hour or until firm. Keep refrigerated.