Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super easy – Just three ingredients and no baking required.
- Deliciously creamy – The combination of cream cheese and peanut butter makes these incredibly smooth.
- Perfect for any occasion – Great for parties, snacks, or a quick dessert.
- Customizable – Add coatings or mix-ins to make them your own.
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
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Directions
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and mix until fully combined, forming a thick dough.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 20-24 peanut butter balls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate-Coated: Dip the chilled peanut butter balls in melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
- Crunchy Texture: Add crushed peanuts or mini chocolate chips to the mixture for extra texture.
- Healthier Option: Use natural peanut butter and reduce the powdered sugar slightly.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for an allergy-friendly version.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed container. Let them thaw for a few minutes before eating.
- Reheating: No reheating is needed—just enjoy them chilled!
FAQs
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will add texture and a bit of crunch to the peanut butter balls.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep.
3. How do I keep them from sticking to my hands when rolling?
Lightly coat your hands with a bit of powdered sugar or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
4. Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener can be used for a lower-sugar option.
5. How do I make these peanut butter balls firmer?
If the dough is too soft, chill it for 10–15 minutes before rolling into balls.
6. Can I add vanilla extract for more flavor?
Definitely! A teaspoon of vanilla extract adds a nice depth of flavor.
7. What’s the best way to dip them in chocolate?
Use a fork or dipping tool to coat them evenly in melted chocolate, then let them set on wax paper.
8. Are these gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ingredients, these peanut butter balls are naturally gluten-free.
9. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes! Almond butter or cashew butter works well for a different flavor profile.
10. How long do they need to chill before serving?
At least 30 minutes to firm up properly, but longer chilling makes them even better.
Conclusion
These 3-ingredient peanut butter balls with cream cheese are the perfect no-bake treat—easy, creamy, and packed with peanut butter goodness. Whether you enjoy them plain or with a chocolate coating, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Give them a try and enjoy a simple yet delicious homemade dessert!
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls with cream cheese
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 20-24 peanut butter balls
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These 3-ingredient peanut butter balls with cream cheese are a quick and easy no-bake dessert! They’re rich, creamy, and packed with peanut butter flavor. Perfect for parties, snacks, or meal prep, these peanut butter balls require minimal effort and are customizable with chocolate or crunchy add-ins.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar and mix until fully combined, forming a thick dough.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- To prevent sticking, lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar while rolling.
- For a chocolate version, dip the chilled balls in melted chocolate and let them set.
