1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
The Crunchy Coating:
2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs or graham cracker crumbs
1 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
The Jammy Heart:
½ cup your favorite jam (strawberry, raspberry, or apricot work beautifully)
Optional Decorations:
Powdered sugar for dusting
Melted chocolate for drizzling
Colored sprinkles for rolling
👩🍳 Your Foolproof 4-Step Method
Step 1: Create the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Add vanilla extract and gradually beat in powdered sugar until well combined.
The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when scooped.
Step 2: The Assembly Line
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place your coating ingredients in separate shallow bowls.
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture and flatten slightly in your palm.
Step 3: The Jam Surprise
Make a small indentation in the center of each cream cheese round.
Place ½ teaspoon of jam in the center.
Carefully fold the edges over the jam and roll into a smooth ball, ensuring the jam is completely enclosed.
Step 4: The Coating Magic
Roll each ball in your chosen coating until completely covered.
Place on the prepared baking sheet and repeat with remaining mixture.
Chill for at least 1 hour until firm.
Step 5: The Beautiful Finish
Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with chocolate, or add sprinkles if desired.
Serve chilled and watch them disappear!
🌟 5 Secrets to Jam Ball Perfection
SOFTEN PROPERLY: Room temperature cream cheese and butter are essential for smooth mixing
DON'T OVERFILL: Too much jam will leak out during rolling
CHILL THOROUGHLY: Firm balls are easier to coat and hold their shape better
UNIFORM SIZE: Use a cookie scoop for consistently sized balls
SEAL COMPLETELY: Make sure the jam is fully enclosed to prevent leaking
🍽️ Serving Suggestions That Shine
HOLIDAY ELEGANCE: Arrange in pretty paper liners on a decorative platter
AFTERNOON TEA: Serve with tea or coffee for a sophisticated treat
LUNCHBOX SURPRISE: Pack in individual containers for special treats
PARTY PERFECT: Display on a tiered stand with different jam flavors
"JUST BECAUSE" TREAT:** Because Tuesday deserves something special too!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! They keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q: What if I'm allergic to nuts?
A: Use additional cookie crumbs, coconut, or even crushed cereal for coating.
Q: Can I freeze these?
A: Yes! Freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to containers. Thaw in refrigerator.
Q: What jams work best?
A: Thicker jams and preserves work better than runny jellies.
🎉 Flavor Variations to Explore
CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT: Use Nutella instead of jam
LEMON CURD DELIGHT: Fill with lemon curd and roll in crushed shortbread
PEANUT BUTTER CUP: Peanut butter center with chocolate cookie coating
TROPICAL PARADISE: Mango or passion fruit jam with coconut coating
HOLIDAY CHEER: Cranberry sauce filling rolled in crushed candy canes
The Final Bite: Little Balls of Happiness
These Sweet Creamy Jam Balls are more than a recipe—they're a reminder that the most joyful treats often come in small packages. They represent the beauty of taking time to create something special, the magic of hidden surprises, and the simple pleasure of sharing something made with love.
Every time you serve these delightful treats, you're not just offering dessert—you're creating moments of discovery and delight, you're showing people they're worth the extra effort, and you're proving that sometimes the smallest things can bring the greatest happiness.
Now we want to hear from your kitchen! What jam flavors will you try first? Have you made similar treats before? Share your creations and flavor combinations in the comments below—we can't wait to see your beautiful jam balls! 🍓✨