Equipment Needed
- Food processor or high-powered blender
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or sturdy spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or wax paper
- Microwave-safe bowl (or double boiler)
- Forks or dipping tools
- Small zip-top bag (for crushing berries)
Step-by-Step Instructions
My first step is always to tackle the freeze-dried strawberries. I place them in a small zip-top bag, seal it tightly, and use a rolling pin to crush them into a fine, pink powder. A few small chunks are okay, but the finer it is, the more evenly the strawberry flavor will distribute and the smoother my dough will be. I set this aside. Then, I take my entire package of Golden Oreos—cream filling and all—and pulse them in my food processor until they become uniform, sandy crumbs. No large pieces should remain. I dump these beautiful golden crumbs into my large mixing bowl.
Next, I add the block of softened cream cheese right on top of the crumbs. Using my hand mixer on low speed, I beat them together until they just start to combine. Then, I add the powdered freeze-dried strawberries and the vanilla extract. I continue mixing until a thick, cohesive, and delightfully pink dough forms. It will be sticky. I stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is fully incorporated with no white or yellow streaks. The dough should smell like strawberries and cream.
Now, for the chill. I cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This is non-negotiable! The first time I skipped this, the dough was so soft and sticky I couldn’t roll it into balls; it just coated my hands. Chilling firms it up perfectly for handling. After it’s firm, I line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon), I portion the dough, then quickly roll each portion between my clean palms into a smooth ball, placing them on the sheet. Once all are rolled, I freeze the entire tray for 15-20 minutes. This second chill is the secret to a perfect chocolate coat.(See the next page below to continue…)