Sometimes the best desserts are the simplest. These 3-ingredient peanut butter Oreo cookie balls are proof that you don’t need a long ingredient list or complicated steps to create a treat that everyone will love. With just a package of Oreos, creamy peanut butter, and chocolate chips, you can whip up a batch of rich, indulgent bites that taste like they came straight from a candy shop.
These cookie balls are smooth, chocolatey, and packed with peanut butter flavor. The crushed Oreos give them a deep cocoa base, while the peanut butter makes them creamy and satisfying. Once dipped in melted chocolate, they take on a glossy finish and a touch of decadence. They are perfect for holidays, parties, or simply when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
1 package (15.25 oz) Oreo cookies or similar chocolate sandwich cookies
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white chocolate can be used)
Directions
Crush the Oreos. Place the cookies in a food processor and pulse until they are finely crushed into crumbs. If you do not have a food processor, place the cookies in a sealed plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin until no large pieces remain.
Mix with peanut butter. Transfer the Oreo crumbs to a large bowl and stir in the creamy peanut butter. Mix until everything is well combined and a thick, dough-like mixture forms. It should be easy to roll into balls without crumbling.
Form the balls. Scoop small portions of the mixture, about one tablespoon each, and roll them between your palms to form smooth, bite-sized balls. Place the shaped balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill the mixture. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until the balls are firm enough to handle without falling apart. This step makes them easier to dip into melted chocolate.
Melt the chocolate. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stovetop.
Dip the balls. Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off before returning it to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill again. Once all the balls are coated, refrigerate them until the chocolate is fully set. This usually takes about 30 minutes.
Serve and enjoy. Once set, the cookie balls are ready to be served. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Oreos already contain a mixture of chocolate cookie and sweet cream filling, so when crushed, they create a perfect base for binding with peanut butter. The peanut butter adds creaminess and flavor while also helping the mixture stick together without the need for additional ingredients like cream cheese or butter. Finally, dipping them in chocolate elevates the cookie balls into a polished treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Serving Suggestions
These peanut butter Oreo cookie balls are versatile enough to serve on many occasions. They are great on a dessert platter, packed into a lunchbox as a special surprise, or displayed at a party. During holidays, you can decorate them with sprinkles, drizzle them with contrasting chocolate, or even top them with crushed cookies or nuts.
For a more elegant presentation, place each ball in a small paper candy cup. This makes them easy to grab at gatherings and adds a touch of style. They also make thoughtful homemade gifts. Simply arrange a few in a small box or tin, add a ribbon, and you have a sweet treat to share with friends or family.
Storage Tips
Because these cookie balls are made with peanut butter, they should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain their firmness. Place them in a covered container, layering parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They will keep for up to one week in the fridge.
If you’d like to make them ahead for a party or holiday, you can also freeze them. Place the finished cookie balls on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to serve, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Recipe Variations
While the classic version uses Oreos, peanut butter, and chocolate, there are many fun ways to adapt this recipe to suit different tastes.
You can swap the peanut butter for almond butter, cashew butter, or even cookie butter for a different flavor. For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter.
Experiment with different cookie flavors. Golden Oreos, mint Oreos, or even seasonal varieties can give the cookie balls a unique twist.
Instead of dipping them in chocolate, roll the finished balls in cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut for a no-melt option.
For a more colorful version, dip the balls in white chocolate and decorate them with colored sprinkles, making them perfect for birthdays, holidays, or themed parties.
Why You’ll Love These Cookie Balls
These little treats are more than just easy to make—they are fun, kid-friendly, and endlessly customizable. They require no baking, use ingredients you probably already have on hand, and come together quickly. Because they are bite-sized, they are great for sharing and for portion control, though it is admittedly hard to stop at just one.
Closing Thoughts
3-ingredient peanut butter Oreo cookie balls are the kind of recipe that reminds us how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly delightful. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, they are sure to become a go-to treat in your kitchen. Whether you are making them for a party, a holiday celebration, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookie balls never disappoint. They are creamy, chocolatey, and perfectly indulgent, proving that sometimes the easiest recipes are also the most delicious.