Reese’s Cheese Ball Recipe

Introduction

This simple and delicious Reese’s Cheese Ball Recipe is the perfect no-bake dessert for any occasion. Combining the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. For another easy, no-bake treat, try this No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake. Ready in minutes, this sweet and savory cheese ball is an effortless way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

This irresistible Reese’s Cheese Ball combines creamy, sweet, and salty flavors for a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

• 12 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup peanut butter, warmed (or use any creamy peanut butter)
• 1/2 cup chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups
• 2 cups Reese’s Pieces, for decorating
• Graham crackers, for serving (or pretzels, apple slices)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes

Context: This no-bake Reese’s Cheese Ball comes together about 20% faster than similar dessert cheese ball recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Cream Cheese

Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, lump-free Reese’s Cheese Ball base that is easy to mix.

Step 2 — Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is incorporated.

Step 3 — Add the Peanut Butter and Chocolate

Beat in the creamy peanut butter until fully blended. Then, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and finely chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups by hand using a spatula. This prevents the mixers from breaking the candy pieces too much.

Step 4 — Chill the Mixture

Transfer the Reese’s Cheese Ball mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to help you shape the mixture into a rough ball. Tightly wrap it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. This makes the next step of rolling much easier.

Step 5 — Prepare the Coating

While the cheese ball chills, place the additional crushed Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and mini chocolate chips for the coating on a large plate or shallow bowl. Mix them together to create an even coating mixture.

Step 6 — Shape and Coat the Ball

Remove the firm cheese mixture from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Using your hands, roll it into a perfect sphere on a clean surface. Then, roll the entire ball in the coating mixture, pressing gently to make sure it adheres evenly on all sides.

Step 7 — Final Chill and Serve

Place the finished Reese’s Cheese Ball on a serving plate. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap and return it to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the coating. Serve with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or apple slices for dipping.

Nutritional Information

Calories	220
Protein	5g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fat	16g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	180mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

This delicious Reese’s Cheese Ball recipe is easily adaptable. Here are some simple ingredient swaps to suit different dietary needs without sacrificing the classic peanut butter and chocolate flavor.

• Greek Yogurt for Cream Cheese — Use plain, non-fat Greek yogurt for a protein boost and a tangy flavor that complements the peanut butter.
• Almond Flour for Graham Cracker Crumbs — A perfect lower-carb, gluten-free coating that adds a subtle nutty taste.
• Natural Peanut Butter — Opt for a natural, no-sugar-added variety to reduce processed ingredients and control sweetness.
• Dark Chocolate Chips — Swap milk chocolate for at least 70% dark chocolate chips to lower the sugar content and add antioxidants.
• Dairy-Free Cream Cheese — Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative to create a vegan or dairy-free Reese’s Cheese Ball.
• Unsalted Nut Topping — Roll the ball in chopped unsalted peanuts or almonds instead of the graham cracker mixture to reduce sodium.
• Sugar-Free Sweetener — Replace the confectioners’ sugar with a powdered erythritol blend for a lower-carb and lower-glycemic option.

Serving Suggestions

• For the ultimate sweet and salty pairing, serve your Reese’s Cheese Ball with a platter of salty pretzel rods, crisp graham crackers, and fresh apple slices.
• This dessert cheese ball is a perfect centerpiece for holiday parties, game day gatherings, or birthday celebrations.
• Create a stunning presentation by rolling the finished ball in a combination of finely chopped Reese’s Pieces and mini peanut butter cups before serving.
• Pair it with a cup of cold milk, a rich hot chocolate, or a robust coffee to balance the sweetness.
• For individual servings, scoop smaller portions and serve in mini phyllo cups or on small dessert plates for easy handling.
• Transform it into a festive log shape for Christmas or a heart shape for Valentine’s Day to match the occasion.

No matter how you serve it, this Reese’s Cheese Ball is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that disappears quickly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold cream cheese, which leads to a lumpy, difficult-to-mix base. Fix: Always let the cream cheese and butter soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before blending.
• Mistake: Overmixing the peanut butter and powdered sugar, which can cause the mixture to become oily. Fix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a creamy texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the chilling step before forming the ball, resulting in a sticky mess. Fix: Chill the mixed base for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator; it will be much easier to handle and shape.
• Mistake: Rolling the ball in toppings immediately after shaping, causing them to slide off. Fix: Briefly chill the shaped Reese’s Cheese Ball again to firm it up before adding the final coating.
• Mistake: Using generic peanut butter with added oils and sugars, which can throw off the flavor balance. Fix: Opt for a natural, no-stir peanut butter for a richer, more authentic peanut taste.
• Mistake: Not finely chopping the Reese’s Cups, leading to large, difficult-to-slice chunks. Fix: Freeze the Reese’s Cups for 15 minutes before chopping to get neat, small pieces that distribute evenly.
• Mistake: Serving the cheese ball straight from the fridge, making it too hard to spread. Fix: Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for a perfectly spreadable consistency.
• Mistake: Storing it improperly, which can lead to the ball absorbing other fridge odors. Fix: Wrap the Reese’s Cheese Ball tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store the Reese’s Cheese Ball in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep it refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C) for food safety.
• Freezer: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: This dessert cheese ball is best served chilled. If it has been frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Do not microwave or heat it.

For the best texture and flavor, allow your Reese’s Cheese Ball to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving after refrigeration.

Conclusion

This Reese’s Cheese Ball is the ultimate no-bake dessert for any occasion. It’s incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. I hope you love it as much as we do! If you try it, please leave a comment below and be sure to check out our other treats like this Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecakes Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I make this Reese’s Cheese Ball ahead of time?

Yes, this Reese’s Cheese Ball is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare it up to two days in advance and store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for the best creamy texture.

What should I serve with the Reese’s Cheese Ball?

Serve your Reese’s Cheese Ball with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or pretzel sticks for a sweet and salty contrast. Fresh apple and pear slices also make delicious, refreshing dippers that complement the rich peanut butter and chocolate flavors.

Can I use a different type of peanut butter?

We recommend using creamy, standard peanut butter for the best consistency in your Reese’s Cheese Ball. Natural peanut butters that separate may make the mixture too oily. For an authentic Reese’s taste, avoid using crunchy varieties unless you want added texture.