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If you are looking for a no bake keto treat that comes together in minutes and satisfies those peanut butter cravings these cream cheese balls deliver the goods Every batch is packed with rich peanut butter flavor and the creamy tang of cheesecake all without added sugar
When I first whipped these up I was surprised how quickly they disappeared My husband kept sneaking them out of the fridge and now we make them almost every weekend
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: Softened to room temperature for easy mixing Choose full fat for best texture
- Natural peanut butter: Unsweetened with no added sugar The fewer ingredients on the label the better
- Powdered erythritol: Blends smoothly for sweetness without aftertaste Look for brands like Swerve or Lakanto
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all those delicious creamy notes Pure vanilla is worth the splurge
- Salt: Optional unless your peanut butter is unsalted A pinch balances out the flavors
- Optional sugar free chocolate chips, crushed nuts, shredded coconut: These add crunch flavor and fun Pick a coating that suits your mood or pantry
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Base:
- In a medium bowl combine your softened cream cheese and peanut butter Use a sturdy spoon or hand mixer to blend until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy This takes a few minutes but will make forming the balls so much easier
- Sweeten and Flavor:
- Sprinkle in your powdered erythritol vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if your peanut butter is unsalted Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined The dough should look plush and hold soft peaks
- Chill the Dough:
- Place your bowl in the refrigerator for twenty to thirty minutes This firms up the mixture making it easy to roll without sticking to your hands
- Form the Balls:
- Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to portion out the chilled dough Roll each bit into one inch balls Place them evenly on a parchment lined baking tray for easy cleanup
- Finish with Toppings:
- If you want an extra special batch roll the cream cheese balls in crushed nuts sugar free chocolate chips or shredded coconut Press the coating in gently to help it stick
- Set and Serve:
- Pop the tray in the fridge or freezer for another ten to fifteen minutes so the balls firm up even more They are ready to eat as soon as they are chilled
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Peanut butter is my not so secret obsession Its nutty flavor blends so well with the creamy tang from the cheese Every time I share these with friends they are shocked that something this indulgent could actually be good for a low carb diet These have become our go to dessert for movie nights
Storage Tips
Store these cream cheese balls in an airtight container in your refrigerator They will stay fresh for up to five days For longer storage you can freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer bag They keep their texture and flavor perfectly so making a big batch is always a good idea
Ingredient Substitutions
For a twist try almond butter or another favorite nut butter in place of peanut butter Experiment with different sugar free sweeteners but stick to the powdered kind for the smoothest texture Dairy free or vegan cream cheese works if you want an alternative but choose one with a thick consistency
Serving Suggestions
These are perfect with a hot cup of coffee for an afternoon pick me up You can make them extra festive by pressing in mini chocolate chips or rolling in colorful coconut flakes If you are entertaining stack them on a pretty plate for a fancy treat nobody will guess they are keto
Cultural and Historical Context
Peanut butter and cream cheese pairings are a classic in American snacking traditions Cream cheese balls took off as a party staple in the mid twentieth century and now there are endless creative twists This keto version is my way of bringing a little retro charm to today's low carb needs
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These little bites have saved me so many times when I needed a quick but satisfying dessert With only a handful of ingredients and no oven required they are my secret weapon for staying keto on busy days Just tuck some into the fridge and treat yourself whenever those cravings hit
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use sweetened peanut butter?
It's best to use unsweetened peanut butter to maintain low sugar levels. Sweetened versions may add unwanted carbs.
- → How do I keep the balls from sticking when rolling?
Chill the mixture until firm and use damp hands to easily roll the dough into balls.
- → What coatings work well for these balls?
Sugar-free chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut make great coatings for extra texture and flavor.
- → Can I freeze these for later?
Yes, store the finished balls in an airtight container in the freezer, and thaw briefly before serving.
- → How long will these stay fresh in the fridge?
They'll keep for up to one week when stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator.