I love making this Reese’s Cheese Ball Peanut Butter recipe when I want a fun, sweet dessert that feels festive but takes very little effort. It combines creamy peanut butter, smooth cream cheese, and just the right amount of sweetness, all rolled into a shareable treat that always disappears fast at gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it’s quick, no-bake, and incredibly rich without being complicated. I can prepare it ahead of time, customize the coating, and serve it with almost anything from crackers to fruit. It’s also one of those desserts that looks impressive but is actually very simple to make.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the cheese ball base:
8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 cup creamy natural peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
¼ cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For mix-ins and coating:
½ cup mini chocolate chips
½ cup Reese’s Pieces or chopped peanut butter cups
½ cup finely chopped peanuts or additional chocolate chips (for coating)
For serving (optional):
Graham crackers
Pretzels
Apple slices or vanilla wafers
Directions
I start by placing the softened cream cheese and peanut butter into a large mixing bowl. I beat them together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Next, I add the powdered sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract, then mix again until everything is well combined and fluffy.
Once the base is ready, I gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and Reese’s Pieces. I then cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes so it’s easier to shape.
After chilling, I scoop the mixture out and shape it into a ball using my hands. I roll the cheese ball in chopped peanuts or chocolate chips until it’s evenly coated. Finally, I wrap it tightly and refrigerate it until I’m ready to serve.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 10 to 12 servings from one cheese ball, depending on portion size.
Prep time: about 15 minutes
Chilling time: about 30 minutes
Total time: roughly 45 minutes
Variations
I sometimes mix in crushed pretzels for a sweet-and-salty crunch. When I want a richer flavor, I use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate. For a smoother coating, I roll the cheese ball in cocoa powder or finely crushed graham crackers instead of nuts.
Storage/Reheating
I store this cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, I never reheat it. I just let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving so it softens slightly.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
I often make it a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge until serving.
Can I freeze a peanut butter cheese ball?
I don’t recommend freezing it because the texture can become grainy once thawed.
What can I serve with this cheese ball?
I like serving it with graham crackers, pretzels, apple slices, or vanilla wafers.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
I can use crunchy peanut butter, but I prefer creamy for a smoother texture.
Is this recipe very sweet?
I find it sweet but balanced, especially when paired with salty dippers like pretzels.
Conclusion
This Reese’s Cheese Ball Peanut Butter recipe is one of my favorite no-bake desserts because it’s easy, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. I enjoy how quickly it comes together and how versatile it is for parties, holidays, or casual get-togethers.
Reese’s Cheese Ball Peanut Butter is a creamy, sweet, and festive no-bake dessert combining peanut butter, cream cheese, and chocolate in a fun, shareable cheese ball perfect for parties and gatherings.
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:10–12 servings
Ingredients
Cheese Ball Base:
8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
1 cup creamy natural peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
¼ cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Mix-ins and Coating:
½ cup mini chocolate chips
½ cup Reese’s Pieces or chopped peanut butter cups
½ cup finely chopped peanuts or additional chocolate chips for coating
For Serving (optional):
Graham crackers
Pretzels
Apple slices or vanilla wafers
Instructions
Beat softened cream cheese and peanut butter in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
Add powdered sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined and fluffy.
Gently fold in mini chocolate chips and Reese’s Pieces.
Cover and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
Scoop the mixture and shape into a ball using hands.
Roll the cheese ball in chopped peanuts or chocolate chips until evenly coated.
Wrap tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve with graham crackers, pretzels, apple slices, or vanilla wafers if desired.
Notes
Mix in crushed pretzels for a sweet-and-salty crunch.
Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for richer flavor.
Roll the cheese ball in cocoa powder or finely crushed graham crackers for a smoother coating.
