No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs
If you’re looking for a festive treat that’s quick to whip up and absolutely delicious, No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs are an absolute game-changer. Combining the perfect balance of creamy white chocolate, crisp peppermint flavor, and a delightful coconut coating, these snowballs capture the spirit of the holidays in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or craving a sweet snack, No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs offer that magical winter charm without needing an oven or complicated steps. They are as fun to make as they are to eat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation: No baking required means you can have these decadent treats ready in no time.
- Festive flavor blend: The peppermint and white chocolate combination creates a classic holiday taste everyone adores.
- Perfect portion size: Bite-sized snowballs make them ideal for parties and easy snacking.
- Versatile for any occasion: Great for gift-giving, holiday parties, or an everyday sweet treat.
- Kid-friendly and fun: Kids love helping roll and decorate these snowballs, turning kitchen time into holiday fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs shines through in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from creating the smooth texture to delivering that perfect peppermint crunch.
- White chocolate chips: The creamy base that adds sweetness and richness.
- Crushed peppermint candies: For that refreshing, festive flavor and delightful crunch.
- Unsweetened shredded coconut: Adds snowy texture and a subtle nutty taste.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Acts as the binding agent, keeping everything moist and cohesive.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm aromatic note.
- Optional sea salt: Balances the sweetness, bringing out deeper flavors.
Variations for No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs
Customization is easy and encouraged with No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs. You can effortlessly adjust the recipe to suit various tastes, dietary preferences, or to experiment with new flavors.
- Dark chocolate twist: Substitute white chocolate for dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet version.
- Nutty addition: Mix in chopped almonds or pecans for added crunch and flavor complexity.
- Vegan-friendly option: Use coconut condensed milk and dairy-free chocolate to keep it plant-based.
- Spicy peppermint: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick that warms the palate.
- Gluten-free adaptation: Ensure all ingredients, especially candies and chocolates, are certified gluten-free.
How to Make No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs
Step 1: Melt and mix
Start by gently melting the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Once smooth, stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 2: Add crushed peppermint candies
Fold in crushed peppermint candies and shredded coconut carefully, ensuring an even distribution throughout the mixture without breaking down the texture.
Step 3: Chill the mixture
Cover the mixture and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up slightly, making it easier to roll into snowballs.
Step 4: Form the snowballs
Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls. Roll each ball in additional shredded coconut to coat generously, resembling a snowball’s snowy exterior.
Step 5: Final refrigerate
Place the formed snowballs on a lined tray and chill them in the refrigerator for another 20-30 minutes until fully set and firm.
Pro Tips for Making No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs
- Use quality chocolate: High-quality white chocolate melts smoother and offers a tastier base.
- Crush candies finely: Smaller peppermint bits distribute flavor better and create a pleasant texture.
- Keep hands cool: Slightly chilling your hands before rolling prevents the mixture from melting too quickly.
- Line your tray: Use parchment paper or silicone mats to avoid sticking and ease cleanup.
- Adjust sweetness: Add a pinch of sea salt or reduce condensed milk to balance the sugar levels.
How to Serve No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra crushed peppermint or a dusting of powdered sugar on top of the snowballs for an elegant winter wonderland look that heightens the peppermint aroma.
Side Dishes
Pair these snowballs with hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or coffee for a delightful holiday snack that warms the soul and satisfies sweet cravings.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs in festive cupcake liners or on a tiered tray adorned with holiday greenery to impress guests and brighten your dessert table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover snowballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain their fresh peppermint flavor and creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze these treats for up to three months by placing them in a sealed freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Reheating
No reheating is needed—simply thaw frozen snowballs in the refrigerator overnight for a perfect ready-to-eat holiday treat.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate can be substituted, but it will alter the classic peppermint bark flavor and sweetness; consider pairing it with less crushed candy to balance.
Are No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids enjoy the simple process of rolling the snowballs and decorating them, making this a great family-friendly recipe.
How long do No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, they typically last about one week without losing their texture or flavor.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure all ingredients, especially crushed peppermint candies and chocolate, are certified gluten-free, this recipe suits gluten-free diets.
What’s the best way to crush peppermint candies?
Place the candies in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or use a food processor on a low pulse to get evenly sized pieces.
Final Thoughts
No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs are the perfect combination of ease and festive fun, bringing holiday cheer with every bite. Whether you’re new to holiday baking or looking for a no-fuss treat to share, these snowballs will quickly become a favorite. Go ahead and give this recipe a try—you’ll be thanking yourself all season long!
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PrintNo-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs
No-Bake Peppermint Bark Snowballs are a festive and easy-to-make holiday treat combining creamy white chocolate, refreshing crushed peppermint candies, and a snowy shredded coconut coating. These bite-sized sweet balls require no baking, making them perfect for quick preparation, family fun, and adding a magical winter charm to any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 20-24 snowballs 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Bake
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
- 3/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Melt and mix – Gently melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once smooth, stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Step 2: Add crushed peppermint candies – Fold in the crushed peppermint candies and shredded coconut carefully, ensuring even distribution without breaking down the texture.
- Step 3: Chill the mixture – Cover the mixture and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up slightly, making it easier to roll into snowballs.
- Step 4: Form the snowballs – Using hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls. Roll each snowball generously in additional shredded coconut to create a snowy exterior.
- Step 5: Final refrigerate – Place the snowballs on a lined tray and chill in the refrigerator for another 20-30 minutes until fully set and firm.
Notes
- Use high-quality white chocolate for a smoother melt and better flavor.
- Crush peppermint candies finely for better distribution and pleasant texture.
- Keep hands cool by chilling them slightly before rolling to prevent melting the mixture.
- Line trays with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Adjust sweetness by adding a pinch of sea salt or reducing condensed milk if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 snowball
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: no-bake, peppermint bark, snowballs, holiday treats, white chocolate, peppermint, coconut, gluten free, festive dessert
