Place the Golden sandwich cookies in a food processor.

Pulse until they become very fine crumbs with no large cookie pieces remaining. If you don’t have a food processor, place the cookies in a large zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.

Transfer the crumbs to a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Filling

Add the softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and salt to the cookie crumbs.

Mix using a hand mixer on low speed or a sturdy spatula until everything is completely combined.

Continue mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture becomes thick, soft, and dough-like.

Step 3: Shape the Balls

Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time.

Roll each portion between your palms to create a smooth, round ball. Try to keep them similar in size so they chill and coat evenly.

Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

You should get approximately 24 to 30 balls, depending on their size.

Step 4: Chill Until Firm

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours, or until the cookie balls are firm enough to dip.

If you’re short on time, you can place them in the freezer for approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Avoid freezing them until completely solid if you plan to dip them immediately, because extreme temperature differences can cause the candy coating to crack.

Step 5: Melt the Green Candy Coating

Place the green candy melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl.

Microwave in 20- to 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval.

Continue until the wafers are completely melted and smooth. Avoid overheating because candy melts can become thick or grainy if exposed to too much heat.

If the coating seems too thick, add a small amount of coconut oil and stir until smooth. Do not add water or liquid flavorings.

Step 6: Dip the Cookie Balls

Remove a few chilled balls from the refrigerator at a time, keeping the remaining ones cold.

Place one ball into the melted green coating. Use a fork or dipping tool to turn it gently until completely covered.

Lift the ball out and allow the excess coating to drip back into the bowl.

Gently tap the fork against the edge of the bowl to remove extra coating.

Step 7: Place on the Baking Sheet

Carefully transfer each coated ball onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.

Use a toothpick or another small tool to gently slide the ball off the fork if necessary.

Try to keep the tops smooth and avoid touching the coating while it is still wet.

Step 8: Add the Red Hearts

While the green coating is still wet, place one small red heart sprinkle near the top or upper center of each ball.

Press very gently so the heart sticks without sinking too far into the coating.

If the coating has already started to set, use a tiny dot of melted green candy coating as edible glue to attach the heart.

Step 9: Let the Coating Set

Allow the Grinch Christmas Balls to sit at room temperature in a cool, dry area until the candy coating is firm.

If your kitchen is warm, place the tray in the refrigerator for approximately 10 to 15 minutes to help the coating set.

Once firm, transfer the treats to a serving platter or airtight container.

Your adorable Grinch Christmas Balls are ready to enjoy!