Description
Deliciously creamy and rich, these No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Balls combine the smoothness of cream cheese and peanut butter with a sweet graham cracker crunch, all coated in a luscious chocolate shell. Perfect for a quick, easy dessert or snack, these bite-sized treats are simple to prepare without any baking required.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
- Crushed peanuts or graham cracker crumbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until fully combined. Stir in the graham cracker crumbs until a thick dough forms.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to shape.
- Form the Balls: Once chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into smooth balls using your hands. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze the Balls: Freeze the rolled balls for 20 minutes to help them set and prepare for coating.
- Melt the Chocolate Coating: While the balls chill, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with the coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
- Dip and Coat: Using a fork, dip each cheesecake ball into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place the coated balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Garnish and Set: Sprinkle the tops with crushed peanuts or graham cracker crumbs if desired. Refrigerate the coated balls for about 15 minutes until the chocolate coating is firmly set.
- Store and Serve: Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Serve chilled for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute vegan cream cheese and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- These cheesecake balls freeze well for up to one month; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
