Description
These soft, melt-in-your-mouth peppermint balls are the perfect no-bake holiday treat — creamy, sweet, refreshing, and festive. They come together in minutes, use simple ingredients, and look beautiful on cookie trays or gift boxes. If you love peppermint bark or candy cane flavors, this is the easiest holiday candy you can make.
Ingredients
For the Peppermint Balls
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3 cups powdered sugar
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ tsp peppermint extract (or adjust to taste)
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1–2 drops red or green food coloring (optional)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
For Coating (Optional)
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Crushed candy canes
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Melted white chocolate
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Melted dark chocolate
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Holiday sprinkles
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Powdered sugar
Instructions
1. Make the Peppermint Dough
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In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
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Add vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt.
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Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until a thick dough forms that you can roll in your hands.
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If using food coloring, add a drop or two and mix until evenly colored.
2. Shape the Candies
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Scoop out small teaspoon-sized portions of dough.
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Roll each into a smooth ball using your hands.
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Place formed candies on a parchment-lined tray.
3. Coat the Peppermint Balls (Optional)
Choose one or mix several for variety:
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Roll in crushed candy canes for crunch and sparkle.
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Dip halfway or fully in melted white or dark chocolate.
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Dust lightly in powdered sugar for a frosted look.
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Add sprinkles while chocolate is still wet.
4. Chill & Serve
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Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes until firm.
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Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
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Start with softened cream cheese — this ensures smooth dough.
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Add powdered sugar gradually to avoid dryness.
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Peppermint flavor can get strong — start with less and adjust.
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Chill before serving for the best texture.