If you’re looking for a festive, irresistible treat that combines the classic crunch of Oreos with a refreshing peppermint twist, you’ve got to try this Peppermint Oreo Cups Recipe. These adorable little cups are a perfect balance of crumbly chocolate cookie crust and creamy, minty filling, topped with whipped cream and a peppermint candy that screams holiday cheer. Whether you’re making them for a party, a sweet gift, or just a cozy night in, this recipe is simple enough to whip up anytime but special enough to impress everyone around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Peppermint Oreo Cups Recipe lies in its straightforward and thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the crispy texture to the cool, creamy flavor and the festive look.
- Oreo cookies, 2 cups, crushed: The crunchy base that forms the chocolatey cup, giving great texture and that familiar Oreo flavor everyone loves.
- Unsalted butter, 6 tablespoons, melted: Binds the crushed Oreos into a sturdy, buttery crust that’s perfectly scoopable.
- Cream cheese, 8 ounces, softened: Provides the rich, smooth filling with a tangy twist that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Powdered sugar, 1 cup: Sweetens the filling gently and helps it whip up silky smooth.
- Peppermint extract, 1 teaspoon: Brings that refreshing mint flavor that defines this recipe and adds an uplifting aroma.
- Food coloring, 1–2 drops, pink or red (optional): Adds a festive pop of color to the creamy filling, making these cups look even more inviting.
- Whipped cream, for topping: Adds lightness and a luscious finish that contrasts the rich filling.
- Mini peppermint candies or candy canes, for garnish: Provide a delightful crunch and a visual cue for the peppermint flavor inside.
How to Make Peppermint Oreo Cups Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Tools and Oven
Start with a clean mini muffin tin and grease it well to ensure your Oreo cups come out easily. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so everything’s ready to go when you’re assembled.
Step 2: Create the Oreo Crust
Take those crushed Oreos and mix them with the melted butter until every crumb is perfectly coated. This mixture will be your sturdy, flavorful cup base that holds all the delicious filling to come.
Step 3: Form the Cup Shapes
Press about a tablespoon of the Oreo-butter mixture into each muffin cup, shaping it up the sides slightly so it can hold the filling like a tiny chocolate bowl. This step sets the stage for the creamy peppermint surprise inside.
Step 4: Bake and Shape the Cups
Bake these crusts for about 8 to 10 minutes until they’re set but still soft enough to shape. Carefully press down the centers while they’re warm to deepen the cups, then let them cool completely – this helps them keep their perfect shape as they firm up.
Step 5: Mix the Peppermint Filling
In a separate bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and a touch of food coloring if you’re using it. The goal here is a smooth, airy minty filling that will complement the crunchy crust beautifully.
Step 6: Fill Those Cups
Once your Oreo cups are completely cool, pipe or spoon that luscious peppermint cream cheese filling into each one, filling them generously but neatly so they don’t spill over.
Step 7: Top with Whipped Cream and Peppermint
Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each filled cup. Then crown your creation with a mini peppermint candy or crushed candy cane pieces for a festive crunch and a clear hint of the mint inside.
Step 8: Chill and Serve
Pop the filled cups into the fridge to chill until you’re ready to serve. The cold helps the filling set perfectly and makes every bite cool and refreshing.
How to Serve Peppermint Oreo Cups Recipe
Garnishes
The final touch of a mini peppermint candy or candy cane adds both color and texture to your cups. For an adult twist, consider a light dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of crushed dark chocolate. It’s all about making the presentation as inviting as the flavor.
Side Dishes
These Oreo cups are sweet enough to be the star, but if you want to serve them alongside something else, think simple. Hot chocolate or a peppermint mocha are dreamy companions, as is a light fruit salad that balances the richness with natural sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Peppermint Oreo Cups Recipe treats on a festive tray lined with holiday-themed napkins or a sprinkle of edible glitter. You can also serve them in small cupcake liners or place them on elegant dessert stands for that extra wow factor at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover peppermint Oreo cups (and who wouldn’t?), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, perfect for enjoying over a couple of cozy nights.
Freezing
You can freeze these cups by placing them on a tray until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container. When wrapped properly, they keep well for up to one month, letting you prepare ahead for holidays or special events.
Reheating
Since this dessert is best served cold, reheating is not recommended. Instead, let frozen cups thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before enjoying their perfect texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of peppermint?
While vanilla will change the flavor profile, you can substitute it if you prefer a milder taste. Peppermint is what gives this recipe its festive flair, so using peppermint extract keeps that holiday spirit alive.
What if I don’t have a mini muffin tin?
If you don’t have a mini muffin tin, you can try using silicone candy molds or small cupcake liners to shape the cups. Just press the crust mixture carefully and keep them chilled until set.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free version and use vegan butter. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I prevent the crust from cracking?
Make sure your butter is fully melted and mixed well with the crushed Oreos so the crust holds together firmly. Also, gently press the mixture into the molds without overworking it.
Can I use other cookies instead of Oreos?
You can experiment with other chocolate sandwich cookies, but Oreos provide that perfect balance of chocolate and sweetness. Different cookies will change the flavor and texture, so choose one with a similar density.
Final Thoughts
This Peppermint Oreo Cups Recipe is a delightful little dessert that brings together the best of creamy, crunchy, and minty flavors in one cute package. It’s fun to make, enjoyable to share, and guaranteed to light up any festive table. Trust me, once you try these, they might just become your go-to holiday treat!
Print
Peppermint Oreo Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini cups
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these festive Peppermint Oreo Cups, a no-fuss, sweet treat perfect for the holidays. These mini dessert cups feature a crunchy Oreo crust baked to perfection, filled with a creamy peppermint-flavored filling, and topped with whipped cream and festive peppermint candy garnishes.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups Oreo cookies, crushed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1–2 drops pink or red food coloring (optional)
Topping
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Mini peppermint candies or candy canes, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare muffin tin: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
- Make the crust mixture: In a bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter until the mixture is well blended.
- Form the Oreo cups: Press about 1 tablespoon of the Oreo mixture firmly into each muffin cup, shaping it into a cup.
- Bake and shape: Bake the crusts for 8–10 minutes. While still warm, gently press down the centers to create space for the filling. Let them cool completely.
- Prepare the peppermint filling: In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and optional food coloring until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Fill the cups: Pipe or spoon the peppermint cream cheese filling into the cooled Oreo crust cups.
- Add toppings: Top each filled cup with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with a mini peppermint candy or small candy cane.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the completed peppermint Oreo cups until ready to serve to ensure they are set and chilled.
Notes
- You can substitute regular Oreos with gluten-free Oreos to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to suit your taste preference.
- Food coloring is optional and for an added festive look.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling.
- Use a piping bag for a neat filling presentation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
