Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesecake Balls are the ultimate easy dessert for anyone who loves the rich, creamy taste of cheesecake but wants a more portable, fun-to-eat version. The best part is that they’re no-bake, making them quick to prepare. You can get creative with the coatings—whether it’s a crunchy graham cracker crust, smooth chocolate coating, or even sprinkles for a festive look. Plus, you can customize them with different flavorings, making them versatile enough to suit any crowd.

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup chocolate chips (for coating, milk, dark, or white chocolate)
1 tablespoon butter (for melting chocolate)
Optional toppings: crushed nuts, sprinkles, crushed cookies, or coconut flakes
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Cheesecake Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be thick and spreadable.
Form the Cheesecake Balls: Gradually add the graham cracker crumbs into the cream cheese mixture, stirring to combine. Once the crumbs are fully incorporated, begin rolling the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
Chill the Cheesecake Balls: Place the formed cheesecake balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the cheesecake mixture and make it easier to coat.
Melt the Chocolate: While the cheesecake balls chill, melt the chocolate chips with the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Coat the Cheesecake Balls: Once the cheesecake balls are chilled, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, coating it evenly. Use a fork to lift it out and let the excess chocolate drip off. Place the chocolate-coated balls back onto the parchment paper.
Decorate (Optional): If desired, you can roll the cheesecake balls in extra graham cracker crumbs, crushed nuts, sprinkles, or other toppings while the chocolate coating is still wet. This adds extra texture and flavor.
Chill to Set: Place the coated cheesecake balls back in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden and set.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the chocolate coating has set, your cheesecake balls are ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 20-25 cheesecake balls, depending on the size.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour (30 minutes for mixture + 30 minutes for chocolate setting)
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Cheesecake Balls: Add cocoa powder to the cream cheese mixture for a chocolatey twist on these cheesecake balls.
Strawberry Cheesecake Balls: Incorporate freeze-dried strawberries into the mixture or dip the balls in white chocolate and sprinkle with crushed strawberries.
Flavored Coatings: In addition to graham cracker crumbs, you can use finely crushed cookies (like Oreos or Nilla wafers), coconut flakes, or even crushed candy for a unique coating.
Lemon Cheesecake Balls: Add a bit of lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice to the mixture for a tangy lemon cheesecake version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cheesecake balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. These treats are best enjoyed chilled and do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese, though the texture and richness may not be the same as full-fat cream cheese. It may result in a lighter texture, but still delicious!

Can I freeze these cheesecake balls?

Yes, you can freeze cheesecake balls for up to 2 months. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to serve, let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours.

Can I use a different type of coating for the cheesecake balls?

Yes! You can use any coating you like, such as white chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even a drizzle of caramel or fruit preserves for a different flavor profile.

Do I have to chill the cheesecake balls before coating them?

Chilling the cheesecake balls before coating them makes the process easier and helps the balls keep their shape. It’s highly recommended to refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes before coating with chocolate.

How can I decorate the cheesecake balls?

You can roll the cheesecake balls in crushed nuts, graham cracker crumbs, coconut flakes, or sprinkles. You can also drizzle extra chocolate on top or dust them with cocoa powder for a more elegant touch.

Can I make these cheesecake balls ahead of time?

Yes, these cheesecake balls are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare them a day or two before you need them. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

What if I don’t want to use chocolate for the coating?

You can skip the chocolate coating entirely and roll the cheesecake balls in crushed graham crackers, crushed cookies, or coconut flakes. For a simpler option, a dusting of powdered sugar can also work!

Can I make these cheesecake balls without graham crackers?

Yes! You can make them without graham crackers and use crushed cookies (like Oreos) or even a combination of ground nuts for a different texture and flavor.

Can I use store-bought frosting instead of making my own?

While it’s best to make your own cheesecake filling for the freshest flavor, you can substitute store-bought frosting if you prefer a quicker option. Just keep in mind that it will affect the texture and flavor slightly.

Can I use different types of chocolate for the coating?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate, depending on your preference. You can even mix the chocolates for a marbled effect.

Conclusion

Cheesecake Balls are a delightful, bite-sized dessert that brings all the rich, creamy goodness of traditional cheesecake into a fun and easy-to-eat treat. With endless flavor and coating options, you can get creative and tailor these little bites to your taste. Whether you’re serving them at a party or simply enjoying them as an everyday treat, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Simple, no-bake, and absolutely delicious—these cheesecake balls are perfect for any occasion!