These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls with Cream Cheese are unbelievably good and incredibly easy to make. They have the perfect creamy, nutty flavor with a touch of sweetness that melts in my mouth. Whether I am making them for a party, a quick snack, or a dessert table, these little treats never disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it requires just three simple ingredients that I usually already have in my kitchen. It takes hardly any time to whip up, and the result is a delicious, creamy bite-sized treat. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cream cheese
- Peanut butter
- Powdered sugar
Directions
- I start by letting the cream cheese soften at room temperature.
- In a large bowl, I mix the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth and fully combined.
- Gradually, I add the powdered sugar, continuing to mix until the dough is thick and no longer sticky.
- I scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls using my hands.
- I place the peanut butter balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- I refrigerate them for at least an hour, or until they are firm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 24 peanut butter balls, depending on the size I roll them. It takes around 15 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour of chilling time.
Variations
- I sometimes roll the peanut butter balls in crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or mini chocolate chips for added texture.
- For an extra indulgent treat, I dip the balls in melted chocolate and let them harden before serving.
- I like to add a touch of vanilla extract to the mixture for a deeper flavor.
Storage/Reheating
I store these peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If I want to keep them longer, I freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag, where they stay good for up to three months. I let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving. No reheating is needed for this treat.
FAQs
How can I make the peanut butter balls firmer?
I add a little more powdered sugar if the mixture feels too soft to roll into balls.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
I can use natural peanut butter, but I make sure it’s well stirred and not too oily to maintain the right texture.
Can I freeze these peanut butter balls?
Yes, I freeze them after shaping. I make sure they are stored in a freezer-safe container or bag.
What type of cream cheese works best?
I use full-fat block cream cheese for the best flavor and texture. I avoid whipped cream cheese spreads.
Can I add mix-ins to the peanut butter balls?
Yes, I sometimes fold in mini chocolate chips, crushed pretzels, or chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls with Cream Cheese are a simple yet irresistible treat that I can make anytime. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, they’re perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or impressing guests at any gathering. Once I try them, they quickly become a favorite staple in my dessert rotation.
Print
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls (With Cream Cheese)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: About 24 peanut butter balls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These easy 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls with Cream Cheese are the perfect creamy, nutty, and sweet bite-sized treats. Ideal for parties, dessert tables, or quick snacks, these no-bake peanut butter balls are made with pantry staples and come together in no time. Great for anyone looking for a simple yet indulgent dessert recipe!
Ingredients
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Peanut butter
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature.
- In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth and fully combined.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the dough is thick and no longer sticky.
- Scoop small portions of the mixture and roll into balls using your hands.
- Place the peanut butter balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Notes
- For added texture, roll the peanut butter balls in crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or mini chocolate chips.
- For a decadent version, dip the balls in melted chocolate and allow them to harden.
- Add a touch of vanilla extract for deeper flavor.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Use full-fat block cream cheese for best results; avoid whipped spreads.