Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Ball Recipe

Introduction

This Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Ball Recipe delivers the classic candy flavor in a fun, shareable dessert cheese ball form. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sweet and creamy treat that’s perfect for parties, holidays, or any peanut butter craving. For another classic flavor combination, try this It’s peanut butter jelly time #recipe #cooking #foodasmr #food.

Ingredients

This irresistible dessert cheese ball combines creamy peanut butter, smooth cream cheese, and crunchy candy pieces for the ultimate sweet and salty treat that’s perfect for parties.

  • 12 ounces cream cheese, softened (1 ½ 8-ounce packages)
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, coarsely chopped
  • 1 to 2 cups Reese’s Pieces candy

Recipe Title: Reeses Cheese Ball ingredients

Timing

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

Context: This Reeses Cheese Ball recipe is ready in about half the time of typical no-bake dessert cheese balls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Cream Cheese

Bring the cream cheese to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Softened cream cheese blends more smoothly, preventing lumps in your Reeses cheese ball.

Step 2 — Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with butter until light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3 — Add Sweet Ingredients

Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, which should take about 2 minutes.

Step 4 — Incorporate Peanut Butter and Chocolate

Fold in creamy peanut butter and mini chocolate chips. For best texture, make sure all ingredients are fully incorporated without overmixing.

Step 5 — Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling firms up the mixture, making it easier to shape into a ball.

Step 6 — Shape the Cheese Ball

Remove the chilled mixture from refrigerator. Using clean hands, form it into a ball on a sheet of plastic wrap. If the mixture sticks, lightly dampen your hands.

Step 7 — Add the Coating

Roll the shaped cheese ball in crushed Reese’s Pieces or peanut butter cups until fully coated. Press gently to help the coating adhere.

Step 8 — Final Chill Before Serving

Wrap the coated Reeses cheese ball in plastic and refrigerate for another 30 minutes. This helps it hold its shape when served.

Step 9 — Serve and Enjoy

Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to bloom and makes spreading easier. Serve with graham crackers or apple slices.

Nutritional Information

Calories 210
Protein 4g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fat 14g
Fiber 1g
Sodium 120mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

  • Greek yogurt cream cheese — Higher protein with a tangy flavor that complements the peanut butter
  • Almond flour or oat flour — Gluten-free options that provide a nutty taste and lower-carb profile
  • Coconut cream cheese — Dairy-free alternative with a subtle coconut note that pairs well with chocolate
  • Natural peanut butter (no-salt) — Lower-sodium option with pure peanut flavor and no added sugars
  • Dark chocolate chips (sugar-free) — Lower-carb chocolate alternative with rich, intense cocoa flavor
  • Monk fruit sweetener — Zero-calorie sweetener that maintains sweetness without spiking blood sugar
  • Vanilla protein powder — Protein boost that enhances the peanut butter cup flavor while reducing sugar

Recipe Title: Reeses Cheese Ball finished

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with graham crackers, pretzel rods, or sliced apples for contrasting textures.
  • Serve at holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or game day events for a crowd-pleasing dessert.
  • Offer alongside coffee or milk to balance the rich peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
  • Garnish with mini Reese’s Pieces or chopped peanuts for extra visual appeal and crunch.
  • Present on a decorative platter surrounded by fresh fruit like strawberries or banana slices.
  • Chill briefly before serving to maintain a firm, scoopable texture.

This Reeses Cheese Ball is perfect for making ahead, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare other party dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Mistake: Using cold cream cheese, which is difficult to mix and results in a lumpy texture. Fix: Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before blending.
  • Mistake: Overmixing the peanut butter and cream cheese, which can make the cheese ball oily. Fix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a creamy, stable consistency.
  • Mistake: Skipping the chilling step before forming the ball, causing it to be too soft and sticky. Fix: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1-2 hours so it firms up and is easier to shape.
  • Mistake: Rolling the ball in chopped Reese’s too early, making the coating melt and soggy. Fix: Press the candy pieces onto the chilled ball right before serving to keep them crisp.
  • Mistake: Using powdered sugar that is lumpy, creating an uneven sweetness and gritty mouthfeel. Fix: Sift the powdered sugar before adding it to ensure a perfectly smooth mixture.
  • Mistake: Not tasting the mixture before chilling, potentially resulting in a bland or overly sweet dessert. Fix: Always do a quick taste test and adjust the sugar or peanut butter to your preference.
  • Mistake: Storing the finished cheese ball at room temperature, which can cause it to spoil or lose its shape. Fix: Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container until ready to serve for food safety and texture.
  • Mistake: Cutting the Reese’s pieces too large, making the coating difficult to adhere and awkward to eat. Fix: Chop the candies into small, uniform pieces so they stick to the surface easily.

Storing Tips

  • Fridge: Store your Reese’s Cheese Ball in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: This dessert cheese ball is best served chilled and does not require reheating. For food safety, always keep it refrigerated below 40°F.

Let the frozen Reese’s Cheese Ball thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Ball Recipe is the perfect sweet and salty treat for any gathering. If you love this dessert, you might also enjoy our Decadent Reese’s Marshmallow Brownies Recipe. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments!

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Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Ball

A no-bake, creamy peanut butter cheese ball coated with colorful Reese’s Pieces candy, perfect for parties and served with graham crackers, pretzels, or apple slices.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces cream cheese, softened (1 ½ 8-ounce packages)
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup miniature Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, coarsely chopped
  • 1 to 2 cups Reese's Pieces candy

Instructions

  1. If peanut butter is thick, microwave for 10 seconds or until warmed through.
  2. With an electric mixer, blend cream cheese and peanut butter until combined.
  3. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
  4. Fold in chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cups.
  5. Line a small bowl with plastic wrap. Spoon peanut butter mixture into the bowl over the plastic wrap.
  6. Fold plastic wrap over the mixture and refrigerate until firm, at least 1 hour.
  7. When ready to serve, unwrap and flip the peanut butter ball onto a platter.
  8. Remove plastic wrap and cover the ball with Reese's Pieces candies.
  9. Allow to soften slightly and serve with graham crackers, pretzels, cookie wafers, or apple slices.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing and to avoid lumps. If desired, add mini chocolate chips to the mixture before chilling for extra texture and chocolate flavor. Serve with a variety of dippers like pretzels or apple slices for best enjoyment.

  • Author: Sophie Lane
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Method: Appetizer/Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

FAQs

Can I make the Reeses Cheese Ball ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Reeses Cheese Ball in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best texture.

What can I serve with the Reeses Cheese Ball?

This sweet Reeses Cheese Ball pairs wonderfully with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or apple slices. You can also serve it with pretzels for a sweet and salty combination that complements the peanut butter and chocolate flavors.

Can I use a different type of peanut butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can use creamy or crunchy peanut butter in this Reeses Cheese Ball recipe. Avoid using natural peanut butter that separates, as it can affect the consistency. The classic creamy style gives the best smooth texture for this dessert cheese ball.

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