Hello, dessert enthusiasts! If you’re looking for a quick, simple, and absolutely delicious treat, you’ve come to the right place. These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls (With Cream Cheese) are a no-bake wonder that will satisfy your sweet tooth in no time. Perfect for parties, holiday trays, or as a quick snack, these creamy and indulgent treats are a hit with kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that you’ll want to make again and again!
Introduction
Desserts don’t get much easier or tastier than these Peanut Butter Balls. With just three ingredients—cream cheese, peanut butter, and powdered sugar—you can whip up a batch of these sweet, creamy delights in no time. The addition of cream cheese sets these apart, giving them a tangy richness that balances the sweetness perfectly. Whether you’re a peanut butter fan or just love simple recipes, these peanut butter balls are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls (With Cream Cheese):
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened 🧀
(Brings creaminess and a slight tang to the mix.) - 1 cup creamy peanut butter 🥜
(Smooth and nutty, the star ingredient of the recipe.) - 1 cup powdered sugar 🍬
(Adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps bind the mixture.)
These three simple ingredients combine to create a magical dessert that’s rich, creamy, and irresistibly good.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls
Follow these steps to whip up these easy, no-bake treats:
- Combine Cream Cheese and Peanut Butter: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This ensures the flavors are well-blended and creates the perfect base.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the mixture. Mix well until everything is fully combined, and you’re left with a thick, pliable dough.
- Roll into Balls: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Chill and Serve: Chill the peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Once chilled, they’re ready to serve and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Softening Cream Cheese: For best results, ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This makes it easier to mix with the peanut butter.
- Perfect Rolling: If the dough is too sticky to roll, refrigerate it for 10 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Customizing Sizes: You can make smaller or larger balls, depending on your preference. Just adjust the chilling time accordingly.
Cooking Tips
- Add a Chocolate Coating: For an extra decadent touch, dip the peanut butter balls in melted chocolate. Simply melt your favorite chocolate (milk, dark, or white), dip each ball, and place them back on the lined baking sheet to set.
- Mix-In Ideas: Stir in mini chocolate chips, crushed pretzels, or chopped nuts to add a bit of crunch to your peanut butter balls.
- Storage Tips: Keep these in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their shape and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls as a party dessert, a midday treat, or even as part of a holiday cookie platter. Arrange them on a festive plate, drizzle with chocolate, or sprinkle with chopped nuts for added presentation flair. They’re guaranteed to be the star of the dessert table!
Nutritional Information
These Peanut Butter Balls are a delightful indulgence, but they also pack a good dose of protein and healthy fats from the peanut butter. Here’s a breakdown per serving (1 ball, approximately):
- Calories: 110
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 40mg
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the balls in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds texture and crunch to the balls, which some people may prefer.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, powdered sugar substitutes like Swerve or monk fruit sweetener can work for a lower-sugar version. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture and sweetness.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
Yes, because they contain cream cheese, it’s best to keep them refrigerated to maintain freshness and texture.
Can I make these vegan?
To make these vegan, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and ensure your peanut butter and powdered sugar are vegan-friendly.
Related Recipes
If you loved this recipe, here are a few more simple and indulgent treats to try:
- No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
- Easy Cheesecake Bites
- Almond Butter Energy Balls
Conclusion
These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls (With Cream Cheese) are proof that simple ingredients can create magical results. They’re creamy, sweet, and oh-so-easy to make, making them a perfect go-to dessert for any occasion. Try them out and see for yourself why they’re a crowd favorite. Don’t forget to customize with your favorite toppings or add-ins to make them uniquely yours!