Reese’s Cheese Ball

Introduction

If you’re a fan of Reese’s, you’re going to love this Reese’s Cheese Ball. This sweet and savory dessert combines the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the irresistible flavors of peanut butter, chocolate, and caramel. It’s the perfect treat to bring to your next party, holiday gathering, or any occasion that calls for something sweet and indulgent. When I first made this Reese’s Cheese Ball, my family was hooked. The combination of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors is absolutely divine, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare. My kids loved it with graham crackers, while my husband enjoyed it with pretzels for a nice contrast of salty and sweet. This dessert has quickly become a family favorite, and it never lasts long. Whether you’re serving it at a party or just enjoying it as a treat at home, this Reese’s Cheese Ball will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

For the Cheese Ball:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup mini Reese’s Pieces
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup crushed peanut butter cups (optional)

For the Coating:

• 1/4 cup mini Reese’s Pieces
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup crushed peanut butter cups

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, peanut butter, powdered sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the mixture until smooth and creamy. The consistency should be light and fluffy, with no lumps.
2. Add the Candies:
   Stir in the mini Reese’s Pieces, mini chocolate chips, and crushed peanut butter cups (if using). Mix everything until evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The Reese’s Pieces and chocolate chips will add texture and bursts of flavor to each bite.
3. Shape the Cheese Ball:
   Once the mixture is well combined, shape it into a ball using your hands. It’s easiest to do this by first scooping the mixture and then rolling it into a ball shape. After shaping the ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. Chilling the cheese ball helps it firm up, making it easier to coat and serve.
4. Prepare the Coating:
   In a separate bowl, mix together the remaining Reese’s Pieces, mini chocolate chips, and crushed peanut butter cups. This candy mixture will create the final coating for the outside of your cheese ball, giving it that delicious candy crunch.
5. Coat the Cheese Ball:
   After the cheese ball has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Carefully roll it in the candy mixture to coat the entire surface. Press the candies gently into the cheese ball to ensure an even, full coverage. The candies should adhere to the cheese ball easily.
6. Serve:
   Once the cheese ball is fully coated, place it on a serving platter. Serve with your favorite dippables, such as graham crackers, pretzels, or fruit like apple slices for a sweet and tangy pairing. Enjoy the deliciously creamy, sweet, and salty flavors of your Reese’s Cheese Ball!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10-12
Calories per Serving: 250 kcal

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

How to Serve

Reese’s Cheese Ball is versatile and can be served in many fun ways:

• With Graham Crackers: This is a classic pairing. The sweetness of the graham crackers complements the rich and creamy texture of the cheese ball.
• With Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels makes a great contrast to the sweet, creamy filling of the cheese ball.
• With Apple Slices: For a healthier option, serve the cheese ball with crisp apple slices for a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
• With Cookies: Try serving it with shortbread cookies or even chocolate chip cookies for a decadent dessert option.
• As a Dip: If you prefer, you can serve the cheese ball as a dip and allow guests to scoop out their portions using their favorite dippers.

Additional Tips

1. Chill the Cheese Ball Long Enough: Make sure to refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 1 hour. This helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to shape and coat.
2. Customize the Candy Coating: You can use more or less of the candy coating ingredients depending on how much candy you prefer on the outside of your cheese ball. Feel free to mix in some mini M&Ms, crushed pretzels, or even crushed nuts for extra texture.
3. Use Smooth Peanut Butter: Smooth peanut butter works best in this recipe, as it mixes more easily into the cream cheese. If you only have chunky peanut butter, just be sure to stir it well before using.
4. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cheese ball, reduce the powdered sugar or brown sugar slightly. You can always taste the mixture before chilling to make sure it meets your sweetness preference.
5. Serve on a Platter: For an extra touch, serve the cheese ball on a platter with a variety of dippables arranged around it. This creates an attractive presentation for your guests.

Recipe Variations

1. Chocolate Lover’s Cheese Ball: If you’re a chocolate lover, you can mix in chocolate syrup or cocoa powder to the cream cheese mixture. Top with chocolate chips and chocolate-covered peanuts for a rich chocolate version.
2. Nutty Reese’s Cheese Ball: Add chopped peanuts or pecans into the mixture for an extra crunchy texture. You can also sprinkle crushed nuts over the top for added flavor.
3. Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Version: Instead of using mini Reese’s Pieces, you can crush mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and mix them into the filling and coating for even more peanut butter goodness.
4. Dairy-Free Version: For a dairy-free version, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and peanut butter. Make sure to use dairy-free chocolate chips for coating.
5. Pumpkin Spice Reese’s Cheese Ball: Add pumpkin puree and a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the filling for a fall-inspired twist. Serve it with cinnamon-sugar crackers for a seasonal treat.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Parties: This Reese’s Cheese Ball is perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. Its creamy texture and delicious flavors will have your guests coming back for more.
• Football Games: Serve it as a fun, indulgent dip for watching football games with friends. Pair with chips, pretzels, and veggies for a savory-sweet combination.
• Dessert Table: Add this to your dessert spread for birthdays or special occasions. It’s sure to stand out and impress everyone.
• After Dinner: Serve the cheese ball as an after-dinner treat alongside coffee or a cup of hot cocoa.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: If you want to make the cheese ball ahead of time, you can freeze it! Shape the cheese ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
• Storage: Store the cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It will keep its creamy texture and flavor during this time.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use smooth peanut butter instead of chunky?
   Yes, smooth peanut butter works best for a smoother texture in the cheese ball.
2. Can I use regular-sized Reese’s Pieces?
   Yes, you can use regular-sized Reese’s Pieces, but you may need to chop them into smaller pieces to ensure even coating.
3. Can I make the Reese’s Cheese Ball ahead of time?
   Yes, this cheese ball can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
4. Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
   Yes, milk chocolate chips can be used for a sweeter, creamier flavor.
5. How do I make the cheese ball more firm?
   You can chill the cheese ball for a longer period (up to 2 hours) or freeze it for about 30 minutes before rolling it in the candy coating.
6. Can I add other candies to the cheese ball?
   Absolutely! You can experiment with M&Ms, crushed Oreos, or other candies for added texture and flavor.
7. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
   Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used, but it may change the texture of the cheese ball slightly.
8. How long should I chill the cheese ball?
   Chill the cheese ball for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal for the best results.
9. Can I serve the cheese ball immediately after rolling it in the candy coating?
   Yes, you can serve it right away, but it’s best to refrigerate it for another 15 minutes after coating to ensure everything sets.
10. Can I make a smaller cheese ball?
    Yes, you can halve the recipe to make a smaller cheese ball if you are serving a smaller group.

Conclusion

Reese’s Cheese Ball is a rich, indulgent treat that combines creamy, peanut butter-filled goodness with the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Whether you serve it at your next party, holiday gathering, or as a special snack, this dessert is sure to impress. Its ease of preparation and mouthwatering flavor make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy this treat with family, friends, and loved ones and watch as it disappears in no time!

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