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If you are craving a dessert that brings together peanut butter chocolate and a tangy touch of cream cheese this Reese’s Cheese Ball is your new go to treat. It is a party favorite that tastes just like a chocolate peanut butter cup but with the fun of sharing and dipping.
The first time I made this it felt like instant nostalgia and now my friends ask for it every game day.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: eight ounces softened brings rich tangy creaminess always choose full fat for the best texture
- Peanut butter: half a cup adds classic salty sweetness pick creamy varieties that are free from excessive oil separation
- Powdered sugar: half a cup for smooth sweetness and helps blend everything together sift before adding for extra silkiness
- Brown sugar: one quarter cup deepens the flavor with a hint of molasses make sure it is packed to measure correctly
- Vanilla extract: one teaspoon boosts all the dessert notes so spring for real vanilla instead of imitation
- Mini Reese’s Pieces: one cup adds pops of candy crunch and peanut butter flavor check for freshness and vivid colors
- Mini chocolate chips: half a cup scatters micro chocolate bursts throughout opt for bittersweet if you like it less sweet
- Crushed peanut butter cups: half a cup optional loads in extra decadence use quality peanut butter cups for a treat
- Mini Reese’s Pieces and mini chocolate chips and crushed peanut butter cups for coating: each a quarter cup this makes the outside a beautiful mosaic with extra flavor and crunch
Instructions
- Make the Base Mixture:
- Using a sturdy mixing bowl blend together the softened cream cheese peanut butter powdered sugar brown sugar and vanilla extract until completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the bowl several times as you go to ensure no lumps remain. This creamy base will be the heart of your cheese ball and sets the stage for all the flavor explosions inside.
- Fold in the Mix Ins:
- With a gentle hand use a spatula to fold in the mini Reese’s Pieces mini chocolate chips and if you want extra indulgence the crushed peanut butter cups. Fold just enough so everything is well distributed but do not overmix to keep the texture light.
- Shape and Chill:
- Line your counter with a sheet of plastic wrap. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the wrap and quickly form it into a rough ball. Pull the edges of the wrap around to seal it tightly then roll and pat until you have a smooth round shape. Place in the fridge and chill for at least one hour or until firm. The chilling step makes it much easier to coat the ball without it sticking.
- Prepare the Coating:
- While your cheese ball chills mix the mini Reese’s Pieces mini chocolate chips and crushed peanut butter cups for the coating into a shallow bowl or plate. This sweet candy blend is what gives the cheese ball its wow factor on the party tray.
- Coat the Cheese Ball:
- Unwrap the now firm cheese ball and set it gently onto the coating mixture. Using clean hands roll it around pressing so the candies cling evenly all over the ball. This creates the irresistible crunchy shell everyone loves.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer your finished cheese ball to a serving plate surrounded with graham crackers thick pretzels or your favorite cookies for dipping. Let it sit at room temperature for about twenty minutes before serving so it is perfectly creamy inside.
Every time I make this I sneak a little extra peanut butter into the mix and remember my grandmother always adding extra candies to the outside just for me.
Storage Tips
Wrap leftovers tightly and keep in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to serve it later simply let it sit out for a few minutes to soften slightly before dipping into it again. For longer storage you can freeze the uncoated cheese ball with a double layer of wrap and then add the coating after it thaws.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need a nut free version swap in sunflower seed butter and nut free candies. You can use Neufchâtel for a lighter cheese ball or natural cocoa nibs instead of chocolate chips if you want a slightly earthy crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the cheese ball with graham crackers pretzel crisps or even apple slices for a salty sweet contrast. Try broken waffle cones as a fun and edible scoop especially for kids.
Cultural or Historical Context
Cheese balls have been legendary at American parties since the mid twentieth century but adding sweet ingredients makes this a playful twist on the classic savory version. Reese’s candies have long been a nostalgic treat making this dish both comforting and modern.
Seasonal Adaptations
Top with seasonal sprinkles for holiday celebrations. Swap in pastel candies for spring and summer themes. Add a touch of cinnamon for a holiday spiced version.
Success Stories
I have brought this Reese’s Cheese Ball to countless potlucks. There has never been a single bite left at the end. One friend told me she made it for her daughter’s bake sale and it sold out in the first hour. Everyone remembers this dessert and asks for the recipe afterwards.
Freezer Meal Conversion
If you want to get ahead for party planning freeze the cheese ball after shaping but before coating. Wrap twice in plastic and once in foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight roll in fresh candy coating and serve as usual for the same creamy texture.
This Reese’s Cheese Ball is always a showstopper and disappears fast. Make it for your next gathering and let the sweet celebration begin!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I get the cheese ball smooth and creamy?
Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This ensures smooth blending with peanut butter and sugars.
- → What can I use to serve with the peanut butter cheese ball?
Offer graham crackers, pretzels, or cookies for dipping. Sliced apples also work well for a fruity contrast.
- → How long should I chill the cheese ball?
Chill for at least one hour so it firms up and holds its shape, making it easier to coat and serve.
- → Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, prepare and chill the cheese ball up to two days ahead. Coat with candies just before serving for freshness.
- → Is it necessary to add crushed peanut butter cups inside and outside?
They're optional but add extra flavor and texture. You may omit them or substitute with your favorite mix-ins.