No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Balls Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake Convenience: No need to turn on the oven; these cheesecake balls set perfectly in the refrigerator.
• Simple Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry items, making preparation straightforward.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with various coatings and mix-ins to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips (optional, for coating)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional, for thinning chocolate)
• Extra graham cracker crumbs, crushed peanuts, chocolate sprinkles, or crushed pretzels (optional, for rolling/coating)

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth and well-combined. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
2. Incorporate Graham Cracker Crumbs: Stir in the graham cracker crumbs until the mixture achieves a thick, dough-like consistency.
3. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until the mixture is firm enough to roll into balls.
4. Shape the Cheesecake Balls: Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and roll into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Optional – Coat in Chocolate: Melt the milk chocolate chips and coconut oil together until smooth. Dip each cheesecake ball into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off, and return them to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Roll in Toppings: While the chocolate is still wet, roll or sprinkle the balls with your choice of extra graham cracker crumbs, crushed peanuts, chocolate sprinkles, or crushed pretzels for added texture and flavor.
7. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cheesecake balls for an additional 30 minutes to allow them to firm up before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Servings: Approximately 20 cheesecake balls

Variations

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Balls: Add ¼ cup of cocoa powder to the peanut butter mixture for a chocolate-infused filling.
• Oreo Peanut Butter Cheesecake Balls: Replace graham cracker crumbs with crushed Oreo cookies for a cookies-and-cream flavor.
• Crunchy Peanut Butter Balls: Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy to introduce a delightful crunch.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute regular graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store the cheesecake balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Place the balls in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Serving: Enjoy these treats chilled for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

Yes, natural peanut butter can be used; however, ensure it’s well-stirred to prevent oil separation, which could affect the texture of the cheesecake balls.

How can I make these cheesecake balls vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese and chocolate chips with plant-based alternatives, and use a vegan-friendly peanut butter.

What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?

Crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or gluten-free cookies can serve as suitable substitutes for graham cracker crumbs.

Can I add other mix-ins to the filling?

Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit can be folded into the mixture for additional flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands when rolling?

Lightly dampening your hands with water or dusting them with powdered sugar can help prevent sticking while shaping the balls.

Is it necessary to chill the mixture before rolling?

Yes, chilling firms up the mixture, making it easier to handle and shape into balls without sticking.

Can I omit the chocolate coating?

Certainly! If you prefer, you can roll the cheesecake balls in graham cracker crumbs, crushed nuts, or sprinkles instead of dipping them in chocolate.

How long can these cheesecake balls sit out at room temperature?

Due to the cream cheese content, it’s best to keep them refrigerated and only set them out for serving, limiting time at room temperature to no more than 2 hours.

Can I flavor the cheesecake mixture differently?

Yes, you can add different extracts, such as almond or coconut, to the mixture to create various flavor profiles.

Are these cheesecake balls suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! Package them in decorative boxes or tins, and keep them refrigerated until gifting to ensure freshness.

Conclusion

These No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Balls are a delightful and versatile dessert option that combines ease of preparation with rich, indulgent flavors.