Oh, you sweet tooth seekers—this one’s especially for you! I’m genuinely so grateful you’re here because what I’m about to share may be the easiest and most satisfying treat you’ll make all week. 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls (With Cream Cheese) are a no-bake, ridiculously creamy, perfectly sweet little dream of a dessert that I promise will steal the show at any gathering… or just on your couch at midnight.
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What Are 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls (With Cream Cheese)?
These creamy, rich, and peanut buttery treats are a shortcut to bliss. With just peanut butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar, you’re only a few minutes away from rolling up some bite-sized happiness. Think of them like a cheesecake-meets-fudge-meets-peanut-butter-cup situation—only way easier to make.
They require zero baking, zero stress, and pretty much zero excuses not to try them.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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No-bake magic – No oven? No problem!
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Only three ingredients – You probably already have them.
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Make-ahead friendly – Chill, freeze, snack later!
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Creamy, dreamy texture – Like a peanut butter truffle, but fluffier.
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Crowd favorite – These disappear FAST at parties and potlucks.
What Do They Taste Like?
They’re rich, smooth, and have that iconic peanut butter flavor, but it’s balanced beautifully by the tangy, creamy edge of the cream cheese. The powdered sugar brings it all together with that melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. Imagine the inside of a peanut butter cup, only lighter and creamier. Yeah, it’s that good.
Benefits of This Recipe
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Budget-friendly – Minimal ingredients = minimal cost.
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Quick to make – Done in under 15 minutes (plus chill time).
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Perfect for gifting – Package them up as edible presents!
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Customizable – Roll in chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles.
Ingredients
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1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular, your choice)
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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1½ cups powdered sugar
Optional: mini chocolate chips, crushed peanuts, cocoa powder, or melted chocolate for coating.
Tools You’ll Need
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Mixing bowl
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Hand mixer or stand mixer
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Measuring cups
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Rubber spatula
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Baking sheet or tray
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Parchment or wax paper
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
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Crunchy peanut butter – For a bit of texture!
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Nut-free butter alternatives – Try sunflower seed butter for an allergy-friendly twist.
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Swap powdered sugar – Use a low-sugar or keto alternative like powdered erythritol.
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Add mix-ins – Mini chocolate chips, crushed pretzels, or coconut flakes work beautifully.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls
Step 1: Mix the base
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the peanut butter and mix until fully combined and creamy.
Step 2: Sweeten it up
Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the mixture thickens into a dough-like consistency. It should be soft but scoopable.
Step 3: Shape the balls
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into balls with your hands. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
Step 4: Chill
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or freeze for 20–30 minutes) to firm up.
Optional Step: Decorate
Roll in cocoa powder, dip in melted chocolate, or press mini chocolate chips on top. Get creative!
What to Serve With Peanut Butter Balls
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Hot coffee or an iced latte
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Glass of milk (because classic)
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Crushed over ice cream as a topping
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On a dessert board with cookies, fruits, and nuts
Tips for Peanut Butter Ball Success
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Soften your cream cheese – Cold cream cheese makes mixing tough.
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Sift the powdered sugar – Avoid lumps and make mixing smoother.
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Use a cookie scoop – For uniform sizes and no sticky hands.
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Chill before serving – Helps the texture set perfectly.
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Store extras in the fridge – They taste even better cold!
Storage Instructions
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw for 10–15 minutes at room temp before enjoying.
General Information
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Chill Time: 1 hour
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Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
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Yield: 20–24 balls
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred and not too runny. You may need a touch more powdered sugar for stability.
Can I use almond or cashew butter?
Absolutely! Just be aware that the flavor will change slightly—but still delicious.
Why is my mixture too sticky?
Add a little more powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it firms up.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
Yes, because of the cream cheese. Keep them chilled until serving.
Conclusion
Simple, satisfying, and packed with peanut butter goodness—these 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls with Cream Cheese are one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert, a no-fuss party snack, or just a little bite of joy to keep in your fridge… this recipe delivers every time.
And hey—if you’re like me, you’ll be kicking yourself for not making a double batch. 😉
More No-Bake Treats to Love
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Chocolate Coconut Energy Balls
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No-Bake Cheesecake Bites
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Oreo Truffle Balls
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5-Ingredient Chocolate Fudge
Join the Fun!
Tried this recipe? Don’t be shy—leave a review, pin it on Pinterest, or tag me on Instagram @mmmrecipesblog with your creations. I love seeing what you bake up!
Nutritional Information (per ball, approx.)
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Calories: 110
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Fat: 7g
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Carbs: 10g
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Sugar: 8g
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Protein: 2g
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls (With Cream Cheese) – Unbelievably Good
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 balls 1x
Description
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls (With Cream Cheese) are a no-bake, ridiculously creamy, perfectly sweet little dream of a dessert that I promise will steal the show at any gathering… or just on your couch at midnight.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- Optional: mini chocolate chips, crushed peanuts, cocoa powder, or melted chocolate for coating
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the peanut butter and mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the mixture thickens into a dough-like consistency. It should be soft but scoopable.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into balls with your hands. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or freeze for 20–30 minutes) to firm up.
- Optional: Roll in cocoa powder, dip in melted chocolate, or press mini chocolate chips on top.
Notes
For best results, use softened cream cheese and sifted powdered sugar. Chill thoroughly before serving for ideal texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: peanut butter balls, cream cheese dessert, no-bake treats, 3-ingredient recipe