Pin Recipe A festive, bite-sized treat combining the classic flavors of peppermint bark with the elegance of a cheese board—perfect for holiday entertaining.
I first made these peppermint bark balls for a holiday party, and they quickly became the standout treat on our cheese board. They are always a hit and people love the playful twist on classic peppermint bark.
Ingredients
- Chocolate Layer: 1 cup (170 g) semisweet chocolate chips, 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter
- Peppermint Cream Cheese Filling: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese (softened), 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, 1/2 tsp peppermint extract, 1/4 cup (30 g) finely crushed peppermint candies
- Coating & Garnish: 1 cup (170 g) white chocolate chips, 2 tbsp (30 g) coconut oil or vegetable shortening, 1/4 cup (30 g) crushed peppermint candies, 2 tbsp (20 g) mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Melt Chocolate Layer:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt semisweet chocolate chips and butter in 30 second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Prepare Peppermint Filling:
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and peppermint extract and mix until fully combined. Fold in the crushed peppermint candies.
- Form Balls:
- Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion the cream cheese mixture into 1 inch balls. Place on a parchment lined baking sheet.
- Freeze Balls:
- Freeze the balls for 20 minutes until firm.
- Coat with Chocolate:
- Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate to coat the bottom half. Return to the baking sheet and refrigerate 10 minutes.
- Add White Chocolate & Garnish:
- Meanwhile, melt white chocolate chips with coconut oil until smooth. Dip the tops of each ball in the white chocolate. Immediately sprinkle with extra crushed peppermint candies and mini chocolate chips, if desired.
- Chill & Serve:
- Chill the balls until set, about 10 minutes. Serve arranged on a charcuterie style board with cheeses, fruits, and nuts.
Pin Recipe Sharing these with my family is a holiday highlight. We enjoy them together with hot chocolate while decorating the tree.
Required Tools
Microwave safe bowls, electric mixer or whisk, baking sheet, parchment paper, small cookie scoop or spoon
Allergen Information
Contains milk/dairy (cream cheese, chocolate, butter), contains soy (chocolate, check labels), may contain gluten if candies or chocolate are not certified gluten free
Nutritional Information
Per ball: 120 calories, 7 g total fat, 13 g carbohydrates, 1 g protein
Pin Recipe Enjoy these peppermint bark balls as part of your festive charcuterie spread. They pair perfectly with sparkling wine or hot chocolate!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the peppermint cream cheese filling smooth?
Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and peppermint extract until no lumps remain. Fold in crushed peppermint candies gently for even distribution.
- → Can I use dairy-free ingredients?
Yes, substitute vegan cream cheese and dairy-free chocolate for a lactose-free option. Check labels for allergens and certifications.
- → How far in advance can I prepare these treats?
The balls can be assembled and chilled up to 3 days ahead. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness.
- → What is the best way to coat the balls in chocolate?
Dip the chilled balls into melted chocolate using a spoon or small fork. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before setting on parchment paper.
- → What can I serve alongside these dessert balls?
Pair with cheeses, assorted fruits, nuts, sparkling wine, or hot chocolate for a festive charcuterie-style board.