Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pumpkin Oreo Balls are an easy-to-make, no-bake treat that requires just a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. The combination of crunchy Oreo cookies, smooth cream cheese, and aromatic pumpkin pie spice creates a flavor that’s both comforting and festive. Whether you’re looking to add a cute and delicious snack to your fall party or make a unique homemade gift, these pumpkin-shaped treats will surely impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 14.3 oz Golden Oreo cookies (about 36 cookies)
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 16 oz orange candy melts
- 2 tbsp green candy melts (optional, for decoration)
- Pretzel sticks (optional, for stems)
Directions
- Prepare the Oreo Mixture: Start by crushing the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or blender. In a large bowl, combine the crushed Oreos with softened cream cheese, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are well-combined into a dough-like consistency.
- Shape the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Slightly flatten each ball to create a pumpkin shape. You can use a toothpick or lollipop stick to gently mark the ridges, mimicking the natural lines of a pumpkin.
- Chill: Place the shaped balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes or freeze for 10-15 minutes to firm up.
- Coat with Candy Melts: Melt the orange candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Once melted, dip each Oreo ball into the orange candy, ensuring it’s completely coated. Place the coated balls back on the parchment paper.
- Add Decorative Stems and Leaves: After the candy coating sets (about 10 minutes), melt the green candy melts (optional) and use a piping bag or zip-lock bag with the corner snipped off to pipe small leaves and vines on top of each pumpkin ball. If you like, insert a small pretzel stick into the top for a “stem” effect.
- Chill Again: Refrigerate the finished pumpkin Oreo balls for 30 minutes to allow the candy coating to fully set.
- Serve: Once set, your Pumpkin Oreo Balls are ready to serve. Enjoy the sweet, pumpkin-spiced goodness!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe makes about 25-30 pumpkin Oreo balls, depending on the size of the balls.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 1-2 hours (including both refrigerations)
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
Variations
- Jack-O’-Lantern Faces: Add a fun twist by using melted dark chocolate to draw Jack-O’-Lantern faces on the orange-coated balls. This is a great way to make them even more festive for Halloween.
- Other Coatings: If you don’t have orange candy melts, white chocolate or regular chocolate can be used. Add orange food coloring to the white chocolate for the same effect.
- Add-ins: Try mixing in crushed candy corn or mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the Pumpkin Oreo Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep them chilled as they contain cream cheese.
- Freezing: These Oreo balls can be frozen for up to 2 months. However, the pretzel sticks used for the stems might become soggy upon thawing. For best results, freeze the balls without the pretzels and add them just before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular Oreos instead of Golden Oreos?
Yes, you can use regular Oreos, but using Golden Oreos gives these pumpkin Oreo balls a slightly lighter, sweeter flavor that complements the pumpkin spice perfectly.
2. Do I have to use cream cheese in the filling?
Cream cheese is what gives these balls their signature texture and flavor. If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, you could use a plant-based cream cheese or even frosting, though the texture will differ.
3. How do I make the pumpkin shapes?
After rolling the dough into balls, gently press them to flatten slightly and create a pumpkin shape. You can use a toothpick or lollipop stick to create ridges, giving them a more authentic pumpkin look.
4. Can I make these in advance?
Yes! These Oreo balls can be made 1-2 days in advance. Just make sure to store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
5. Can I freeze Pumpkin Oreo Balls?
Yes, you can freeze them. However, be aware that the pretzel stems may become soggy. It’s best to freeze the balls without the pretzel sticks and add them after thawing.
6. How long do these pumpkin Oreo balls last in the fridge?
These Oreo balls will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. After that, the cream cheese may start to lose its freshness.
7. Can I use chocolate instead of candy melts?
Yes, you can use melted chocolate if you prefer, though candy melts have a smoother, more uniform coating and set faster.
8. How can I make these Oreo balls more festive for Halloween?
In addition to the pumpkin shapes, you can decorate your Oreo balls with Halloween-themed sprinkles, candy eyes, or even edible glitter for an extra touch.
9. How do I prevent the chocolate coating from cracking?
Be sure to refrigerate the Oreo balls for a while before dipping them into the melted candy. A chilled filling helps the chocolate coating set smoothly and prevents cracking.
10. Can I use a different color for the coating?
Yes, you can use any color candy melts you’d like. While orange is traditional for pumpkins, you could use green, brown, or even purple to fit a different theme.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Oreo Balls are an easy, no-bake treat that brings together the best flavors of fall—creamy, spiced, and delightfully sweet. With their adorable pumpkin shape, they’re a hit at any fall party or holiday celebration. Whether served as a fun dessert or a gift for a loved one, these pumpkin Oreo balls are sure to bring smiles and festive cheer
Pumpkin Oreo Balls Recipe
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
- Yield: 25-30 balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pumpkin Oreo Balls are a delightful fall treat that combines the crunch of Golden Oreos, creamy cream cheese, and warm pumpkin pie spice. These no-bake, pumpkin-shaped treats are coated in orange candy melts and decorated with pretzel stems and green candy leaves. Perfect for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or any autumn gathering, this easy recipe will impress both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 14.3 oz Golden Oreo cookies (about 36 cookies)
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 16 oz orange candy melts
- 2 tbsp green candy melts (optional, for decoration)
- Pretzel sticks (optional, for stems)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oreo Mixture: Crush the Golden Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor or blender. In a large bowl, combine the crushed Oreos with softened cream cheese, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough-like consistency forms.
- Shape the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and flatten slightly to create a pumpkin shape. Use a toothpick or lollipop stick to gently mark the ridges on each ball to resemble a pumpkin’s natural lines.
- Chill: Place the shaped balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or freeze for 10-15 minutes to firm them up.
- Coat with Candy Melts: Melt the orange candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Dip each Oreo ball into the orange candy melts, coating it completely. Return the coated balls to the parchment paper.
- Add Decorative Stems and Leaves: Once the coating has set (about 10 minutes), melt the green candy melts (optional). Pipe small leaves and vines on each ball. Insert a pretzel stick into the top to serve as the pumpkin stem.
- Chill Again: Refrigerate the finished balls for another 30 minutes to allow the coating to set completely.
- Serve: Once set, serve your adorable and festive Pumpkin Oreo Balls at your next fall gathering or enjoy as a sweet treat!
Notes
- For extra fun, try adding Jack-O’-Lantern faces with dark chocolate.
- You can use regular Oreos instead of Golden Oreos for a different flavor.
- If you don’t have pretzel sticks, you can omit them or use another candy for the stem.
- For variations, add candy corn or mini chocolate chips for a crunchy texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1-2 hours
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake Treat
- Method: No-Bake,
- Cuisine: American
