Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Simplicity: Prepare a decadent dessert without the need for baking.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese and peanut butter creates a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and steps, this recipe comes together in no time.
- Customizable Coatings: Roll them in your favorite toppings like crushed nuts, chocolate chips, or sprinkles to suit any occasion.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: These treats store well, making them perfect for prepping ahead of time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup crushed peanuts (or other toppings like chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or sprinkles)
- Optional: Melted chocolate or white chocolate for drizzling
Directions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add peanut butter and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and slightly firm.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to make the dough easier to handle.
- Form the Balls: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the chilled mixture and roll them into balls between your palms. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Add Coatings: Roll each ball in your chosen toppings. For an extra touch, drizzle with melted chocolate or white chocolate.
- Final Chill: Refrigerate the coated balls for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 24 balls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 50–60 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Lovers: Dip the balls entirely in melted semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts into the mixture for added texture.
- Coconut Delight: Roll the balls in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Graham Cracker Crust: Mix in graham cracker crumbs to mimic a cheesecake crust flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store the cheesecake balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: These treats are best enjoyed chilled; reheating is not recommended.
FAQs
What type of peanut butter works best for this recipe?
Creamy peanut butter is ideal for a smooth texture, but crunchy peanut butter can be used if you prefer added texture.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Natural peanut butter can be used, but it may result in a softer mixture due to its oil content. Ensure it's well-stirred before incorporating.
Is it necessary to chill the mixture before rolling into balls?
Yes, chilling the mixture helps firm it up, making it easier to handle and roll into balls.
Can I make these cheesecake balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! These balls can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to serve.
What other coatings can I use besides crushed peanuts?
You can roll the balls in crushed graham crackers, cookie crumbs, cocoa powder, or decorate with festive sprinkles.
How can I make the mixture firmer if it's too soft?
If the mixture is too soft to handle, add a bit more powdered sugar or chill it longer until it reaches a workable consistency.
Can I add flavors to the mixture?
Yes, you can mix in flavors like a dash of cinnamon, a splash of maple syrup, or even mini chocolate chips for variety.
Are these cheesecake balls gluten-free?
The base recipe is gluten-free, but ensure that any additional coatings or mix-ins are also gluten-free if needed.
How long can these cheesecake balls sit out at room temperature?
Due to the cream cheese content, it's best to keep them refrigerated and only set them out for up to 2 hours when serving.
Can I use a sugar substitute to make these lower in sugar?
Yes, powdered sugar substitutes can be used, but they may slightly alter the texture and sweetness.
Conclusion
No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Balls are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that combines the rich flavors of cheesecake and peanut butter. With their versatility and convenience, they're sure to become a favorite for any occasion. Enjoy customizing them with your preferred coatings and flavors!
No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Balls
Indulge in these No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Balls, a perfect combination of creamy cheesecake and rich peanut butter. These easy, bite-sized treats require no oven and are ideal for parties, snacks, or whenever you need a sweet, satisfying dessert. Customize them with your favorite toppings like chocolate, nuts, or sprinkles for extra flavor!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 50–60 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 24 balls
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup crushed peanuts (or other toppings like chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or sprinkles)
- Optional: Melted chocolate or white chocolate for drizzling
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add peanut butter and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and slightly firm.
- Chill the Dough – Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
- Form the Balls – Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls between your palms. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Add Coatings – Roll each ball in crushed peanuts, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or sprinkles. Drizzle with melted chocolate if desired.
- Final Chill – Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow them to set.
Notes
- If the mixture is too soft, add extra powdered sugar or chill longer.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture or natural peanut butter (well-stirred) for a softer version.
- Try rolling them in graham cracker crumbs for a cheesecake-like crust flavor.
