Pin The first time I made these was for a baby shower where the mom-to-be had declared everything needed to be various shades of pink. I'll admit I was skeptical about whether candy coating could actually taste good, but that first bite changed my mind completely. There's something almost magical about how the snap of the pink shell gives way to that impossibly smooth Oreo cream cheese center. Now I keep a bag of pink candy melts in the pantry just in case someone needs a little pick-me-up treat.
My niece helped me make a batch last Christmas, and we ended up with pink fingerprints on the refrigerator handle, her apron, and somehow the cat's nose. She took such pride in rolling each ball perfectly round and deciding which ones deserved the most sprinkles. Those slightly imperfect truffles with uneven coating were the first ones to disappear at the party, which just goes to show that handmade charm wins over perfection every time.
Ingredients
- Oreo cookies: The filling is essential here so don't remove it. I've learned that crushing them to fine crumbs rather than leaving chunks creates that silky smooth texture everyone loves.
- Cream cheese: Must be completely room temperature or you'll end up with lumpy pockets in your truffle mixture. Take it out at least an hour before starting.
- Pink candy melts: White candy melts tinted with oil-based food coloring work perfectly. Liquid coloring will seize the chocolate so don't try to substitute.
- Vegetable shortening: This secret ingredient makes the coating thinner and shinier. Skip it if you prefer a thicker candy shell.
- Sprinkles or edible pearls: Add these immediately after dipping while the coating is still wet or they won't stick.
Instructions
- Crush the Oreos:
- Pulse the cookies in a food processor until they resemble fine sand. No processor? Place cookies in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin until uniformly fine.
- Make the truffle mixture:
- Mix the crumbs with softened cream cheese until completely combined. The mixture should hold together when squeezed and look uniformly dark without any white cream cheese streaks.
- Shape the balls:
- Scoop tablespoon portions and roll between clean palms until smooth. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill until firm, about 30 minutes in the fridge.
- Melt the candy coating:
- Melt candy melts in 30-second intervals at medium power, stirring thoroughly between each session. Add shortening if using and stir until completely smooth and glossy.
- Dip the truffles:
- Using a dipping fork or regular fork, lower each chilled ball into the melted coating. Tap gently against the bowl edge to remove excess and return to the parchment tray.
- Decorate immediately:
- Add sprinkles or pearls while the coating is still wet. Let set at room temperature or chill for 10-15 minutes until completely hardened before serving.
Pin These became my go-to contribution for friends going through tough times. There's something about receiving a box of handmade pink truffles that says someone cared enough to get their hands chocolatey just for you. I've delivered them to hospital waiting rooms and new neighbors, and they never fail to bring a tiny moment of joy.
Making Them Ahead
You can form the truffle balls up to three days before coating them. Store them tightly covered in the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for just 10 minutes before dipping. This actually helps them hold their shape better during the coating process.
Troubleshooting Your Coating
If your candy coating becomes too thick to work with, add one teaspoon of vegetable shortening and stir thoroughly. Only do this once as adding too much will prevent the coating from setting properly. A little patience while melting goes a long way toward getting that professional-looking finish.
Flavor Variations
Mix finely chopped pecans or shredded coconut into the truffle base for added texture and flavor. You can also substitute mint Oreos or peanut butter-filled sandwich cookies for the classic variety.
- Dip the finished truffles in crushed graham crackers for an extra crunch
- Drizzle melted white chocolate over the pink coating for a decorative finish
- Try orange candy melts for Halloween or pastel colors for spring celebrations
Pin Package these in a pretty box with wax paper between layers, and they look like they came from an expensive chocolatier. Few gifts say "I thought about you" quite like handmade sweets.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I achieve a smooth candy coating?
To ensure a smooth coating, melt your candy melts in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring well each time. For extra smoothness and shine, stir in 1 teaspoon of vegetable shortening. A double boiler can also provide a more controlled melting process.
- → Can I use different colors for the candy coating?
Absolutely! You can easily customize the appearance by using different colored candy melts. This is a great way to match various party themes or holiday celebrations.
- → How should I store these truffle balls, and how long do they last?
For best results and texture, store your finished truffle balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will maintain their freshness and delicious taste for up to 1 week.
- → What if I don't have a food processor to crush the Oreos?
No food processor? No problem! You can easily crush the Oreo cookies by placing them in a sealed zip-top bag and using a rolling pin to break them down into fine crumbs.
- → Can I add extra ingredients for a different texture?
Yes, for an added crunch, consider stirring in finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even shredded coconut into the Oreo and cream cheese mixture before rolling. This adds a delightful textural contrast.