Looking for an easy, no-bake treat that will impress your holiday guests? These No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs are the perfect solution! With their creamy white chocolate base, refreshing peppermint crunch, and festive appearance, they’re sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. Best of all, they require just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time—making them the ideal choice for busy bakers this season.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 package of white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
- 1/4 cup coconut flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
Directions:
- Begin by melting the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.
- Stir in the peppermint extract and vegetable oil to create a glossy finish.
- Once melted, fold in the crushed peppermint candies, reserving a small amount for sprinkling on top.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a spoon to drop small mounds of the peppermint mixture onto the sheet, forming bite-sized snowballs.
- Garnish each snowball with the remaining crushed peppermint and coconut flakes (if using).
- Let the snowballs set in the fridge for about 30 minutes or until firm.
- Serve and enjoy a cool, minty treat!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 140 per serving
Servings: 12
No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs: A Festive Treat for the Holidays
If you’re looking for a festive, easy-to-make treat this holiday season, look no further than these No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs. This simple recipe combines the creamy sweetness of white chocolate with the refreshing crunch of peppermint, making it the perfect snack for winter festivities. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a homemade treat or need a quick gift idea for a friend or loved one, these snowballs are sure to please.
History and Origins of Peppermint Bark
Peppermint bark is a classic holiday dessert that’s been around for years. Traditionally made with layers of melted chocolate and crushed peppermint candies, it’s a festive favorite during the Christmas season. The concept of combining chocolate with peppermint dates back to the early 1900s, though it gained popularity as a seasonal treat in the United States in the latter half of the 20th century. Over time, the traditional bark has been reimagined in many forms, including this delightful no-bake version—perfect for those who want to skip the oven but still enjoy all the holiday flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs recipe is quick, easy, and requires no cooking at all. Here are some reasons why this treat will become a holiday staple in your kitchen:
- No Baking Required: You can make this treat in under 15 minutes, and there’s no need to worry about turning on the oven.
- Perfect for Gifting: These snowballs make an excellent homemade gift for family and friends. Package them in a cute jar or festive box for a thoughtful, edible present.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak this recipe by adding different toppings like crushed nuts, white chocolate drizzle, or even sprinkles to suit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or bringing something to a potluck, these snowballs will disappear quickly. The combination of creamy white chocolate and minty peppermint is always a crowd favorite.
How to Store Your Peppermint Bark Snowballs
Once your snowballs are set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh for a little longer, they can also be stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let them sit out for a few minutes to soften before serving.
How to Make No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs
Making these snowballs is as easy as it gets. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
- Melt the White Chocolate: Start by melting the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted. This is the base for your snowballs, so make sure the chocolate is completely smooth and creamy.
- Add Peppermint Extract and Oil: Once the white chocolate is melted, stir in the peppermint extract and a bit of vegetable oil. The oil helps give the snowballs a glossy finish and keeps the texture smooth, while the peppermint extract infuses the chocolate with that signature minty flavor.
- Mix in Crushed Peppermint: Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies, leaving some for garnish later. The peppermint adds the perfect level of crunch and freshness to balance the sweetness of the white chocolate.
- Form Snowballs: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of the peppermint-chocolate mixture onto the sheet. Roll the mixture into small balls to form the “snowballs.”
- Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle the tops of each snowball with the remaining crushed peppermint candies (and coconut flakes if you like) to add a little extra texture and flair. Then, place the snowballs in the fridge for about 30 minutes to set.
- Enjoy: Once the snowballs are firm, they’re ready to serve! Enjoy them as a refreshing holiday snack, or give them away as festive gifts.
Tips for the Perfect Peppermint Snowballs
- Use High-Quality White Chocolate: The flavor of the white chocolate is the star of the show, so using good-quality chocolate will make a noticeable difference.
- Customize the Toppings: You can make these snowballs even more festive by adding toppings like sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or a drizzle of dark chocolate on top.
- Storage: Keep your peppermint snowballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 weeks. They’ll stay fresh and delicious, ready for you to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.
The Perfect Treat for Holiday Gatherings
These No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs are perfect for any holiday occasion—whether you’re having a cozy family gathering or a large festive party. They’re easy to make, taste amazing, and add a beautiful, minty touch to your dessert table. You can also offer them as part of a holiday gift basket, or serve them at a cookie swap party.
Pairing Ideas
Serve these snowballs with a hot cup of cocoa, a chilled glass of milk, or a holiday-inspired cocktail like a peppermint martini. Their minty freshness pairs beautifully with rich drinks, making them the perfect treat to enjoy by the fire.
Conclusion:
These No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs are the perfect holiday treat—simple, quick, and full of festive flavor. With just a few ingredients and no baking required, you can easily create these delightful snowballs that are perfect for holiday gifting, parties, or a sweet snack.
Their smooth white chocolate and crunchy peppermint combination is a crowd-pleaser, and you can even customize them with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re short on time or looking for an easy-to-make treat, these snowballs are the ideal solution.
So why not add these minty bites to your holiday traditions? They’re sure to be a hit with friends and family alike!