4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls with Cream Cheese

There’s something so satisfying about a simple, no-bake treat that’s both rich and indulgent. If you’re craving a snack that’s sweet, salty, and incredibly easy to make, these 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls with Cream Cheese are about to become your new favorite. The combination of smooth peanut butter and creamy cream cheese, all coated in a little sweetness, creates a bite-sized treat that’s completely irresistible. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls with Cream Cheese
This recipe isn’t just about satisfying your sweet tooth—it’s about enjoying the sweet moments that come with making something so easy and delicious. Here’s why this treat is a winner:

• Versatile: Perfect for a quick snack, party treat, or even a sweet addition to your holiday baking spread. Picture yourself serving these at a gathering and watching guests reach for more, all while you keep the recipe a fun little secret.
• Budget-Friendly: With only four simple ingredients, you probably already have everything you need in your pantry or fridge. This recipe proves that great things don’t require extravagant ingredients!
• Quick and Easy: This one’s a no-bake, no-fuss recipe. You don’t have to worry about anything complicated—just a few easy steps, and you’ll be on your way to peanut butter bliss.
• Customizable: You can tweak these with a little drizzle of chocolate, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a sprinkle of crushed nuts for extra crunch. The possibilities are endless!
• Crowd-Pleasing: These little peanut butter balls are adored by both kids and adults, so they’re guaranteed to be a hit at any occasion. Plus, they’re great for sharing with friends, family, or coworkers.

Ingredients
These peanut butter balls are all about simplicity and flavor. Here’s the breakdown of the key ingredients:

• Peanut Butter: The star of the show! Smooth peanut butter adds richness and that signature nutty flavor that makes this treat so crave-worthy. Feel free to use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a little extra texture.
• Cream Cheese: This creamy, tangy ingredient is what takes these peanut butter balls from good to great. It adds a velvety smoothness that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter.
• Powdered Sugar: To give these treats that perfect sweetness and slightly firm texture. It’s the perfect binder that helps the peanut butter and cream cheese stick together.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds a warm, aromatic depth that rounds out the flavors beautifully.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Ready to make these delightful peanut butter balls? Here’s how to do it:

• Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter and cream cheese. Mix until smooth and fully blended. This is where the magic happens—when the peanut butter and cream cheese meld together, they create a wonderfully creamy base for the balls.
• Add the Sweetness: Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until everything is fully incorporated. You should have a dough-like consistency that holds together when you roll it.
• Form the Balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. Make sure they’re evenly shaped and compact enough to hold together.
• Chill and Firm Up: Place the peanut butter balls onto a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.
• Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, serve these creamy, sweet bites as a snack or dessert. If desired, drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle with crushed nuts before serving.

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 220

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls with Cream Cheese
These peanut butter balls are a treat on their own, but here are a few ways to elevate your serving:

• Add a Drizzle: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
• Top with Crushed Nuts: A sprinkle of crushed peanuts or almonds adds a lovely crunch that complements the creamy texture of the balls.
• Serve on a Platter: Arrange the peanut butter balls on a pretty platter for a simple but impressive dessert spread. Garnish with a few sprigs of mint or edible flowers for a touch of color.
• Pair with Milk or Coffee: Serve these with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee for the ultimate sweet snack experience.

Additional Tips
To help you get the best results with this recipe, here are a few handy tips:

• Prep Ahead: You can make these peanut butter balls in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, and they’ll stay fresh and delicious.
• Customize with Chocolate: For a little extra indulgence, dip each peanut butter ball halfway in melted chocolate or drizzle it on top for a decadent touch.
• Double the Batch: These peanut butter balls are so easy to make, and they disappear quickly! Consider making a double batch so you have enough to share (or keep for yourself).
• Vegan Variation: If you’re looking for a vegan version, simply swap the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use powdered sugar that’s vegan-friendly.

FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute regular peanut butter with a natural or chunky peanut butter?
A1: Absolutely! You can use natural peanut butter, but keep in mind that it may be a bit more oily. If using chunky peanut butter, it will add extra texture to the balls, which could be delicious!

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A2: Yes, these peanut butter balls are perfect for making ahead of time. Just chill them as instructed, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They stay fresh and tasty for several days!

Q4: Can I freeze these peanut butter balls?
A4: Yes! These freeze beautifully. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours.

Q5: Can I dip these in chocolate?
A5: Of course! Dipping them in melted chocolate adds a wonderful layer of richness. Simply melt some chocolate and dip the balls halfway, then refrigerate until the chocolate sets.

Q6: What’s the best way to serve these for a party?
A6: For a party, serve these peanut butter balls on a decorative platter or in small cupcake liners. You can even dust them with cocoa powder or powdered sugar for a little extra flair.

Q7: Can I adjust the sweetness?
A7: Yes, if you prefer a less sweet version, you can adjust the amount of powdered sugar to suit your taste. You can also use a sugar substitute for a lower-sugar option.

Q8: How do I make these gluten-free?
A8: These peanut butter balls are naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that your powdered sugar and any optional ingredients (like chocolate) are also gluten-free.

Q9: Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
A9: Absolutely! Almond butter would make a great substitute, though it will give the peanut butter balls a slightly different flavor. Still delicious!

Q10: How can I make these more festive?
A10: For a holiday touch, roll the balls in festive sprinkles, crushed peppermint, or drizzle them with red and green melted chocolate. They’re perfect for special occasions!

Conclusion
There you have it—simple, delicious, and totally irresistible 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls with Cream Cheese. Whether you’re making them for a party, an after-school treat, or just because you deserve something sweet, these little bites are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. So, go ahead and make a batch (or two)—trust me, you won’t regret it!

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