Gooey 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls

One chilly December evening, I scrambled to put together last-minute gifts for the neighbors and my kids’ teachers. I had just a few ingredients on hand and barely enough time to wrap anything fancy.

That’s when I remembered a simple peanut butter treat I used to make as a teen for my friends during the holidays. I dug out the cream cheese from the fridge, grabbed a jar of peanut butter, and sifted some powdered sugar. By the time I rolled the last batch into little round balls, the whole kitchen smelled like cozy peanut butter dreams.

Watching my kids sneak a taste while I tried to wrap the gifts made me laugh. Their sticky fingers and happy grins reminded me that some of the best treats are also the easiest. These peanut butter balls became an instant hit—not only as gifts but also as quick snacks for busy afternoons. The combination of creamy peanut butter and tangy cream cheese is simple but addictive, and the powdered sugar adds just the right sweetness. They’re rich, bite-sized, and perfect for anyone who loves a little indulgence without fuss.

These 3-ingredient peanut butter balls quickly became my first choice whenever I need a thoughtful gift or a fast homemade treat. You only need three pantry staples to pull them together, which makes them perfect for last-minute baking emergencies. I promise, once you try these, you’ll be keeping a batch in the fridge at all times.

Short Description

Deliciously creamy and sweet, these 3-ingredient peanut butter balls are a no-bake, bite-sized treat perfect for gifts, snacks, or holiday gatherings.

Key Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Tools Needed

• Medium mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or sturdy spatula
• Small cookie scoop or spoon
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or wax paper

Cooking Instructions

Step 1 Mix the Cream Cheese and Peanut Butter
In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and peanut butter. Use a hand mixer or sturdy spatula to blend until smooth and creamy. The mixture should feel thick but pliable.

Step 2 Incorporate the Powdered Sugar
Gradually add powdered sugar to the mixture, stirring after each addition. Continue until the dough is thick and holds together. If it’s too sticky, add a little more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time.

Step 3 Shape and Chill
Scoop small portions using a cookie scoop or spoon, then roll into 1-inch balls with your hands. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving. For extra firmness, chill up to 2 hours.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Only three ingredients, all likely already in your pantry.

No-Bake Convenience: Perfect for when the oven is busy or you want a quick treat.

Creamy, Sweet, and Rich: Smooth peanut butter and cream cheese make each bite irresistible.

Versatile: Great for gifts, snacks, or party treats. You can even dip them in chocolate for an extra indulgence.

Kid-Friendly: Easy to involve children in rolling and shaping, making it a fun family activity.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Mixture Too Sticky: Add powdered sugar gradually to thicken. Chill the mixture before rolling if needed.

Balls Falling Apart: Ensure cream cheese is fully softened and mixed until smooth before adding powdered sugar.

Uneven Size: Use a cookie scoop to maintain uniform bites for even chilling and presentation.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve chilled on a festive platter or in small candy cups for gifting.

Pair with hot chocolate, coffee, or milk for a cozy treat.

Perfect for family-style platters at holiday gatherings or as a simple dessert bite after dinner.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

For longer storage, freeze on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Serve straight from the fridge or thaw frozen balls at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before eating.

FAQs

1. What if I only have crunchy peanut butter?
You can use crunchy peanut butter for texture. The mixture may need a touch more powdered sugar to hold together.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored in the fridge or frozen for longer.

3. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely, almond or cashew butter works similarly, though flavor will be slightly different.

4. Do I have to chill them?
Chilling is key to firm up the balls. Skip it, and they may be too soft to hold shape.

5. Can I add chocolate or toppings?
Yes, roll them in cocoa powder, sprinkles, or dip in melted chocolate for extra flair.

Tips & Tricks

Use a cookie scoop for uniform balls.

Chill the mixture slightly before rolling for easier handling.

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the dough.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate-Peanut Butter: Fold in ¼ cup mini chocolate chips.

Nutty Delight: Roll balls in finely chopped nuts instead of powdered sugar.

Holiday Treat: Drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.

Final Thoughts

These 3-ingredient peanut butter balls are indulgent without being complicated, creamy without being messy, and just sweet enough to satisfy cravings. I love how simple ingredients transform into something that feels special. Making these with the kids is always fun, they love helping and sneaking a few bites while we work.

They’re portable, fridge-friendly, and versatile enough to dress up for holidays or keep simple for an everyday treat. Each batch brings back warm memories of sharing homemade treats with neighbors and friends. Honestly, I always end up keeping a few just for myself. They’re proof that sometimes the easiest recipes are also the most magical.