Reese’s Cheese Ball Recipe

Introduction

This Reese’s Cheese Ball Recipe is a simple, no-bake dessert that combines the beloved flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. It’s the perfect sweet and salty treat for parties, game days, or any time a quick, delicious dessert is needed. For another fantastic no-bake option, try this No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake.

Ingredients

This irresistible Reese’s Cheese Ball recipe combines creamy, sweet, and salty flavors for a dessert that’s both rich and satisfying.

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter, smooth
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 25 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Miniatures, chopped
• Graham crackers, for serving

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes (plus chilling)

Context: This no-bake Reese’s Cheese Ball comes together about 30% faster than similar dessert cheese ball recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Combine the Cream Cheese and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat together one 8-ounce block of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter until the mixture is completely smooth and well-combined. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Tip: Ensure both ingredients are at room temperature (around 65-70°F) to prevent a lumpy texture and make blending easier.

Step 2 — Add the Sugars and Vanilla

Gradually beat in 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1/2 cup of light brown sugar until fully incorporated. Then, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3 — Incorporate the Peanut Butter

Add 3/4 cup of creamy peanut butter to the bowl. Mix on low speed initially to avoid splashing, then increase to medium until the peanut butter is fully blended into the creamy base.

Tip: Using a standard, no-stir peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) works best for a consistent texture in your Reese’s Cheese Ball.

Step 4 — Fold in the Chocolate and Peanuts

Switch to a spatula or wooden spoon. Gently fold in 1 cup of miniature chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of finely chopped salted peanuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 5 — Shape the Cheese Ball

Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter. Scoop the entire mixture onto the plastic wrap. Use the wrap to help you form the mixture into a tight, round ball.

Tip: Dampening your hands slightly can prevent the mixture from sticking while you shape it.

Step 6 — Chill Thoroughly

Wrap the ball securely in the plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator and chill for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight.

Tip: The Reese’s Cheese Ball is ready when it is very firm to the touch and holds its shape perfectly. This chilling time is essential for the flavors to meld.

Step 7 — Add the Final Coating

Just before serving, place 1/2 cup of additional miniature chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of finely chopped peanuts on a plate or shallow bowl. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it gently in the coating until the entire surface is covered.

Step 8 — Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the finished Reese’s Cheese Ball to a serving platter. Surround it with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or apple slices for dipping. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information

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

Note: Estimates for this Reese’s Cheese Ball are based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Greek Yogurt for Cream Cheese — Use plain, non-fat Greek yogurt to boost protein and reduce fat while maintaining a creamy texture for your Reese’s Cheese Ball.
• Almond Flour for Graham Crackers — Swap crushed graham crackers with almond flour for a gluten-free, lower-carb crust or coating.
• Natural Peanut Butter — Opt for a natural, no-sugar-added peanut butter to cut down on processed sugars and oils.
• Dark Chocolate Chips — Choose 70% or higher dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate to reduce sugar and add antioxidants.
• Low-Fat Cream Cheese — A simple switch to a low-fat or Neufchâtel cream cheese can significantly lower the overall fat content.
• Dairy-Free Cream Cheese — Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative to create a delicious dairy-free version of this Reese’s Cheese Ball.
• Unsalted Nut Butter — Select an unsalted variety of peanut or almond butter to easily control and reduce the sodium level.
• Monk Fruit Sweetener — Replace confectioners’ sugar with a monk fruit-based powdered sweetener for a lower-carb, zero-calorie option.

Serving Suggestions

• For a classic pairing, serve your Reese’s Cheese Ball with graham crackers, pretzel rods, and apple slices for a delightful mix of sweet and salty.
• Create a stunning dessert charcuterie board by placing the cheese ball in the center, surrounded by strawberries, vanilla wafers, and shortbread cookies.
• This dessert cheese ball is perfect for holiday parties, especially during Christmas and Thanksgiving, or as a fun treat for game day gatherings.
• For an elegant presentation, roll the finished cheese ball in additional mini chocolate chips or finely chopped Reese’s Pieces before serving.
• Serve individual portions by using a small cookie scoop to form mini Reese’s Cheese Balls for easy, grab-and-go enjoyment.
• Pair this sweet and creamy spread with a cup of cold milk, coffee, or even a dessert wine for the ultimate indulgence.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this Reese’s Cheese Ball is sure to be the star of any dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold cream cheese, which makes the mixture lumpy and difficult to blend. Fix: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes until it’s soft and pliable.
• Mistake: Overmixing the batter, which can make the Reese’s Cheese Ball dense and tough. Fix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a light, creamy texture.
• Mistake: Not chilling the cheese ball long enough, causing it to lose its shape when served. Fix: Refrigerate the formed ball for a minimum of 2 hours, or until firm.
• Mistake: Using powdered sugar that is lumpy, resulting in a grainy texture. Fix: Sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture for a perfectly smooth consistency.
• Mistake: Chopping the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups too finely, which can cause them to disappear into the mix. Fix: Chop the candy into small, distinct chunks for satisfying bites and visual appeal.
• Mistake: Skipping the outer coating of crushed peanuts or chocolate crumbs, leaving the surface sticky. Fix: Roll the chilled ball in your chosen coating to make it easier to handle and more visually impressive.
• Mistake: Serving the cheese ball straight from the fridge, making it too hard to scoop. Fix: Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for the perfect spreadable consistency.
• Mistake: Storing leftovers improperly, leading to the cheese ball absorbing fridge odors. Fix: Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to preserve freshness.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store the Reese’s Cheese Ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: For best results, thaw the frozen Reese’s Cheese Ball overnight in the refrigerator. Serve chilled; this dessert cheese ball is not meant to be served warm.

Always ensure your Reese’s Cheese Ball is stored at or below 40°F (4°C) to maintain food safety.

Conclusion

This Reese’s Cheese Ball is the ultimate no-bake dessert for any party or sweet craving. It’s incredibly simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. I hope you love it as much as we do! Be sure to leave a comment with your review and check out our Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecakes Recipe for another easy, delicious treat.

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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 covered in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for the best creamy texture.

What is the best way to serve the Reese’s Cheese Ball?

Serve your Reese’s Cheese Ball on a platter surrounded by dippers like graham crackers, pretzels, apple slices, or vanilla wafers. This allows guests to scoop up the delicious peanut butter and cream cheese mixture, highlighting the classic Reese’s flavor.

Can I use a different type of candy in this recipe?

While the recipe is designed for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, you can experiment with other chopped candy bars. However, the combination of peanut butter and chocolate is key to the authentic taste of this Reese’s Cheese Ball.