There are some desserts that just whisper sweet nothings to your soul—and then there are those that practically shout, “Grab a spoon and call your girlfriends!” The Reese’s Cheese Ball is squarely in the latter camp. It’s everything your sweet tooth dreams about: creamy, peanut buttery, packed with chocolate, and totally dunk-worthy.
Whether you’re hosting a game night, planning a weekend potluck, or simply need something delicious that doesn’t require firing up the oven (hallelujah!), this peanut butter bliss dessert recipe has your back.
Why You’ll Love This Reese’s Cheese Ball
Let’s start with the obvious—this isn’t your typical cheese ball. We’re not spreading this one on crackers next to a charcuterie board. Oh no. This is dessert in its sassiest form.
Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe box:
- No-bake? Yes, please. This little ball of joy comes together in 15 minutes flat.
- Loaded with peanut butter and chocolate. Because, duh. It’s called Reese’s Cheese Ball for a reason.
- Customizable for any crowd. Swap the dippers, tweak the mix-ins, or double the batch (you’ll probably want to).
- Kid and adult approved. Trust me—at my last family gathering, both my 8-year-old nephew and my 60-year-old uncle were elbowing in for seconds.
What You’ll Need (aka: Let’s Get the Good Stuff Ready)
Cheese Ball Base:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup peanut butter
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini Reese’s Pieces
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- ½ cup crushed peanut butter cups (optional but encouraged)
Coating (for that irresistible finish):
- ¼ cup mini Reese’s Pieces
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
- ¼ cup crushed peanut butter cups
To Serve:
- Graham crackers
- Vanilla wafers
- Pretzels (the salty-sweet combo? Chef’s kiss)
- Apple slices (if you’re feeling a little virtuous)
How to Make This Reese’s Cheese Ball
1. Mix It Up
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, peanut butter, powdered sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla. Your goal here is creamy and smooth—no lumps, no drama.
2. Fold in the Fun
Add your mini Reese’s Pieces, chocolate chips, and crushed peanut butter cups. Gently stir them in until everything’s happily married in one sweet mess.
3. Shape and Chill
Form your mix into a ball—don’t worry if it’s a little wonky. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least one hour. This step helps it firm up so it holds its shape when you roll it in the coating.
4. Roll, Baby, Roll
In a shallow dish, mix together your coating ingredients. Unwrap your chilled cheese ball and roll it gently in the mix until every inch is coated in crunchy, chocolaty glory.
5. Serve with Style
Place your masterpiece on a platter, surround it with dippers, and prepare for compliments.
Tips for Cheese Ball Success
- Softening the cream cheese: Set it out at room temperature for 30 minutes before starting. Cold cream cheese is the enemy of smooth blending.
- Peanut butter matters: Skip the natural peanut butters that separate—use classic creamy peanut butter for the best texture.
- Mix-ins can vary: Don’t have mini chocolate chips? Go big with chopped semi-sweet chunks or even crushed Oreos.
- Plan ahead: This is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can refrigerate it overnight (just roll it in the coating right before serving).
Real Talk: Why This Recipe Means Something
I’ll never forget the first time I made this Reese’s Cheese Ball. It was a snowy Saturday, the kids were stir-crazy, and my pantry was looking… meh. But I had the staples: cream cheese, peanut butter, and a stash of Halloween candy I may or may not have hidden from the rest of the family.
What came out of that impromptu kitchen experiment turned into a family favorite. It’s now our go-to dessert for birthday parties, potlucks, and even those “just because” nights when we need a little peanut butter bliss.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Sure! It adds a little extra texture, but make sure it’s not the natural kind that separates.
How long will leftovers last?
Keep it tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 3 days—if it lasts that long!
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely. You can shape and chill the cheese ball a day ahead. Just wait to roll it in the coating until right before serving.
Is this gluten-free?
The cheese ball itself is gluten-free, but check your dippers! Many pretzels and cookies contain gluten, so swap in GF options if needed.
Reese’s Cheese Ball is the perfect recipe for peanut butter lovers. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dessert will become your go-to treat. Try it today!