Cheesecake Balls

Are you ready to make a dessert so easy that even your “I don’t cook” friend could pull it off? Enter cheesecake balls: creamy, bite-sized treats that’ll make you forget all those elaborate cheesecake recipes with their water baths and springform pans. These no-bake cheesecake balls are the perfect combo of rich, sweet cream cheese and crumbly graham crackers, and you can whip them up in no time.

Ingredients for Cheesecake Balls

• Cream cheese: The cream cheese provides a rich and creamy base, giving the cheesecake balls their signature smooth texture.
• Confectioners’ sugar: This fine sugar adds sweetness while also helping to create a fluffy, light consistency when beaten with the cream cheese.
• Vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor by adding a warm and aromatic note to the cheesecake mixture.
• Graham cracker crumbs: Half the crumbs add a slight crunch to the mixture, while the rest provide a crispy coating for the finished cheesecake balls.

Directions

Step 1: Make the cheesecake mixture

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In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy, three to four minutes. Slowly beat in the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until light and fluffy, two to three minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Add half the graham cracker crumbs, and gently beat until they’re fully incorporated.

Step 2: Form the cheesecake balls

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Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the mixture into 1-1/2-inch balls, and place them on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet. Cover them with plastic wrap, and freeze for 30 minutes, or until the balls are firm enough to handle.

Step 3: Coat and chill the cheesecake balls

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Place the remaining graham cracker crumbs in a small dish. Roll each chilled cheesecake ball in the crumbs until fully coated. Transfer the coated balls to a resealable container or dish, cover, and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight to allow the texture to firm up.

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Cheesecake Ball Variations

• Add a chocolate coating: Dip the chilled cheesecake balls in melted dark or milk chocolate, then let them set in the refrigerator before serving.
• Roll them in crushed nuts: Coat the cheesecake balls in finely chopped pecans, walnuts or almonds for a crunchy, nutty twist.
• Mix in fruit preserves: Swirl a tablespoon of your favorite fruit preserves, like strawberry or raspberry, into the cream cheese mixture to add a fruity flavor.
• Add a caramel drizzle: Drizzle the finished cheesecake balls with a little warm caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Use cookie crumbs: Instead of graham crackers, roll the cheesecake balls in crushed Oreos or gingersnaps for a fun and flavorful coating.
• Infuse them with espresso: Stir a teaspoon of instant espresso powder into the cream cheese mixture for a coffee-flavored variation that pairs well with a chocolate or cookie crumb coating.
• Add a citrus zest: Mix finely grated lemon, lime or orange zest into the cream cheese mixture for a fresh, zesty flavor.

How to Store Cheesecake Balls

To store these no-bake cheesecake balls, place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’ll last in the refrigerator for up to five days, but if you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to three months. Just let them thaw in the fridge before serving so they retain their creamy texture.

Can you make cheesecake balls ahead of time?

Cheesecake balls are a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare and roll them a day or two in advance, then store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. For even longer storage, freeze the balls and thaw them in the fridge when needed, making them perfect for easy entertaining or prepping ahead for special occasions.

Cheesecake Ball Tips

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Can I use flavored cream cheese in cheesecake balls?

Yes, flavored cream cheese can be used to add a unique twist to your cheesecake balls. Try strawberry, chocolate or even pumpkin spice cream cheese for a fun variation, but be mindful that some flavored versions might be slightly sweeter, so you may want to adjust the amount of added sugar.

How can I make this cheesecake balls recipe without a mixer?

If you don’t have a mixer, you can still make cheesecake balls by using a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon to beat the cream cheese. Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature to make mixing easier and prevent lumps.

What are some other mini desserts you could serve with cheesecake balls?

If you’re looking to serve a variety of sweet bites, there are plenty of delicious options to consider. Peanut caramel brownie bites are a rich and chocolaty complement, while berry tarts offer a refreshing bite. Chocolate truffles add an indulgent touch. You could also serve delicate macarons for a light, colorful option, or go with cake pops, which are always fun.