Reese’s Cheese Ball Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking to wow your guests at your next party or gathering, this Reese’s Cheese Ball is your secret weapon. Combining the creamy richness of cream cheese, the nutty depth of peanut butter, and the irresistible sweetness of chocolate, this dessert cheese ball is a dream come true for any Reese’s lover. It’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors—smooth, crunchy, sweet, and slightly salty—all rolled into one eye-catching ball of decadence.

Not only is it incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients, but it’s also a no-bake recipe that you can prepare in advance. This dessert dip is ideal for game nights, birthdays, holidays, or any time you need a crowd-pleasing treat. Whether you’re serving it with graham crackers, pretzels, or apple slices, this Reese’s Cheese Ball will be the star of your dessert table.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup peanut butter

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup Reese’s Pieces

• 1/4 cup additional chocolate chips for coating

Preparation

Step 1: Cream the Base

In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and peanut butter. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the two together until smooth and creamy. This will form the rich, indulgent base of your cheese ball. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.

Step 2: Add Sweeteners and Flavor

Next, add the powdered sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Continue mixing until the sugars are fully dissolved into the creamy base, and the texture becomes fluffy and light. The combination of brown and powdered sugar gives the cheese ball a deeper sweetness and that classic cookie dough-like flavor.

Step 3: Fold in Chocolate

Using a spatula, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. This step adds bursts of chocolate throughout the mixture, giving every bite that signature Reese’s sweetness and crunch.

Step 4: Shape the Ball

Transfer the mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to help shape the mixture into a ball. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—just try to make it as round as possible. Once shaped, wrap it tightly in the plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator.

Step 5: Chill

Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 2 hours, or until it becomes firm and easy to handle. This step is essential to help the cheese ball hold its shape during coating and serving.

Step 6: Coat with Toppings

Once firm, unwrap your cheese ball and place it on a serving plate. Roll it in the Reese’s Pieces and additional chocolate chips, pressing gently to ensure they stick. The colorful candy coating not only enhances the flavor but also makes the cheese ball visually appealing and festive.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Your Reese’s Cheese Ball is now ready to serve! Pair it with a selection of graham crackers, pretzels, vanilla wafers, or even apple slices. It’s the ultimate dessert dip that brings out the kid in everyone.

Variation

• Nut-Free Version: Substitute sunflower seed butter or cookie butter for peanut butter for those with allergies.

• Chocolate Lovers’ Delight: Roll the cheese ball in crushed Oreos or drizzle it with melted chocolate before serving.

• Holiday Twist: Add crushed peppermint candies during the holiday season or use pastel-colored Reese’s Pieces for Easter.

• Mini Cheese Balls: Instead of one large cheese ball, shape the mixture into several mini balls for individual servings—great for parties or buffets.

COOKING Note

Although there’s no baking required, this cheese ball does rely heavily on chilling to firm up. Be sure to allow ample refrigeration time—at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for the best texture and flavor melding.

If you’re in a hurry, place it in the freezer for about 30–45 minutes, but check frequently to avoid freezing solid. The cream cheese texture should remain soft yet structured for the best experience.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve it with graham crackers for a buttery crunch.

• Pretzels offer a salty contrast that cuts through the sweetness.

• Vanilla wafers or chocolate cookies work beautifully for extra dessert decadence.

• Add a touch of freshness with apple or pear slices—a great balance of crisp and sweet.

• Consider serving it with a knife or small spreaders so guests can easily portion onto their dipper of choice.

Tips

• Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Let your cream cheese sit out for 30–45 minutes before using for a smoother mix.

• Avoid Overmixing: Once you add chocolate chips, fold gently to avoid breaking them up or over-softening the mixture.

• Use Plastic Wrap for Easy Shaping: It makes cleanup easier and helps shape the cheese ball without sticking.

• Make Ahead: This recipe is great for prepping a day in advance—just store it in the fridge and coat it with toppings before serving.

• Double It: Hosting a big crowd? This recipe easily doubles and still comes out perfect.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Chilling Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving)

• Calories: 280

• Protein: 5g

• Sodium: 110mg

(Values may vary depending on serving size and dipper choice)

FAQs

Can I freeze the Reese’s Cheese Ball?

Yes! You can freeze the uncoated cheese ball for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before coating and serving.

How long will it last in the fridge?

The cheese ball will stay fresh for up to 5 days when wrapped tightly and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What can I use instead of Reese’s Pieces?

If you don’t have Reese’s Pieces, you can use chopped peanut butter cups, mini M&Ms, or chopped nuts for a different texture and flavor profile.

Can I make it nut-free?

Absolutely. Use a nut-free butter like Wowbutter or sunflower seed butter. Always check candy coating ingredients if allergies are a concern.

Is this safe for kids?

Yes! It’s a kid-friendly treat, especially if served with fun dippers like animal crackers or fruit slices.

Conclusion

This Reese’s Cheese Ball is more than just a dessert—it’s a show-stopping centerpiece that delivers on flavor, texture, and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a casual game night, a holiday celebration, or just want something sweet and easy to make, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s quick to prepare, fun to decorate, and even more fun to eat.

With its creamy peanut butter and cream cheese core, pops of chocolate chips, and crunchy Reese’s Pieces coating, every bite is a perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and creamy goodness. Try it once, and it’s bound to become a repeat favorite in your dessert rotation.

So go ahead—whip up this indulgent treat, gather your favorite dippers, and enjoy a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

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