I’m a huge fan of treats that don’t require actual baking, and these Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Balls hit all the right notes. They’re creamy, sweet, and have that irresistible peanut butter flavor that pairs perfectly with the tanginess of cream cheese.
The best part? You can whip them up in just minutes, then let the fridge do the rest of the work. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert or something to satisfy those late-night sweet cravings, these little balls of heaven might just become your new go-to indulgence.
Why You’ll Love these Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Balls
Simplicity is what makes these peanut butter cream cheese balls absolutely irresistible. With just three ingredients—peanut butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar—they come together in minutes. No baking required!
I’m obsessed with how creamy yet firm these little treats become after chilling. The tangy cream cheese perfectly balances the sweet, nutty peanut butter. Can you imagine a more perfect bite-sized dessert?
They’re versatile too. Roll them in chocolate, coconut, or crushed nuts for extra flair. Perfect for holiday gatherings, lunchbox treats, or midnight snacking, straight from the fridge.
What Ingredients are in Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Balls?
These delightful peanut butter cream cheese balls need just three simple ingredients to create a perfect sweet treat that’s rich, creamy, and totally addictive.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
When shopping for ingredients, I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor, and a quality creamy peanut butter rather than natural varieties that can separate and affect the consistency of your finished balls.
How to Make these Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Balls
Step 1: Beat Peanut Butter and Cream Cheese Together
Start by combining 1 cup of creamy peanut butter and 6 ounces of softened cream cheese in a large bowl. Beat these ingredients together until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy, with no cream cheese streaks remaining. When preparing your ingredients, having the right baking cookware set can make the mixing process much smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar
Gradually mix in 2½ cups of sifted powdered sugar on low speed. Adding it slowly prevents that powdery explosion all over your kitchen (we’ve all been there, right?). Once incorporated, increase your mixer speed and continue beating until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
Transfer your peanut butter cream cheese mixture to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour. This firming-up time is essential—trust me, trying to roll soft peanut butter mixture is a sticky situation you want to avoid.
Step 4: Roll Into Balls
Once chilled, lightly grease your hands with a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Scoop small portions of the mixture and roll between your palms to form bite-sized balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
Step 5: Arrange on Parchment
Place each rolled ball onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray, leaving a little space between each one. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup so much easier.
Step 6: Final Chilling
Refrigerate your tray of peanut butter balls for at least 4 hours to fully firm them up. For a quicker option, you can pop them in the freezer for about 30 minutes instead—perfect for when those sweet cravings just can’t wait.
Step 7: Optional Finishing Touches
For an extra special treat, try coating the chilled balls in melted chocolate or rolling them in chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or crushed graham crackers. These little additions take your peanut butter cream cheese balls from delicious to absolutely divine.
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Balls
These little bites of peanut butter heaven make perfect snacks or desserts, but what should you pair them with? A cold glass of milk is the classic choice—nothing beats that creamy combo. For coffee lovers, these balls are divine alongside a hot latte or cappuccino, where the coffee cuts through the richness.
If you’re serving them as part of a dessert spread, add some fresh strawberries or sliced apples for a revitalizing contrast to the sweetness. A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce or caramel takes them to the next level when you’re feeling fancy. And for brunch? Place a few on a platter with some banana bread and fruit for a sweet morning treat that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Balls Substitutions and Variations
- Coating Ideas: Roll finished balls in crushed nuts, toasted coconut, cocoa powder, or festive sprinkles for holidays.
- Flavor Boosters: Add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, or a tiny sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavor profile.
- Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle with white, milk, or dark chocolate after chilling for an extra special treat.
Leftovers and Storage for these Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Balls
These delightful treats store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 1 week when kept in an airtight container. For longer storage, they freeze exceptionally well for up to 3 months—just place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen peanut butter balls, simply transfer them to the refrigerator and let them thaw for about 30 minutes. No reheating needed! These are meant to be enjoyed cold.
The cream cheese and peanut butter mixture actually develops deeper flavor after a day in the refrigerator, making these little bites perfect for make-ahead treats. Just be sure to keep them chilled at all times to maintain their firmness and prevent the cream cheese from spoiling.
Final Thoughts
These peanut butter cream cheese balls capture everything wonderful about homemade treats—simplicity, deliciousness, and that perfect balance of creamy and sweet.
With just three ingredients and no baking required, they’re my go-to recipe for holiday gatherings, classroom parties, or those moments when the sweet tooth strikes unexpectedly.
The combination of cream cheese with peanut butter creates something almost magical in texture—firm enough to hold shape but still melt-in-your-mouth soft.
They’re particularly perfect for busy December days when we need something special but have little time to spare. In a world of complicated desserts, sometimes the simplest combinations bring the most comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Peanut Butter Balls Ahead for a Party?
I’d recommend making them up to 3 days ahead. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture perfectly for your party. You can even freeze them longer.
Are These Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Balls Gluten-Free?
Yes, I’m happy to say these peanut butter cream cheese balls are naturally gluten-free! All three main ingredients—peanut butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar—don’t contain gluten, making them perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
How Many Calories Are in Each Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Ball?
I don’t have the exact calorie count for each ball since it depends on how many you make from the recipe. You’d need to divide total calories by the number of balls created.
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead of Creamy?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but I’d recommend stirring it well first. Natural peanut butter tends to be runnier, so you might need a bit more powdered sugar to achieve the right consistency.
Will These Peanut Butter Balls Melt at Room Temperature?
They’ll soften at room temperature but won’t completely melt. I recommend serving them chilled or keeping them refrigerated until shortly before serving for the best texture and firmness.