Description
A festive treat combining creamy cheese, crunchy walnuts, and tart cranberries, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional chopped walnuts and cranberries for rolling
Instructions
- Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Using a hand mixer or spatula, blend them well until smooth.
- Add Flavors: Stir in the chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, and if you like a little bite, the green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Form the Balls: Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls, about the size of a generous tablespoon.
- Coat the Balls: Roll each cheese ball in additional chopped walnuts and cranberries to create a lovely crust.
- Chill Out: Place the cheese balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least an hour. This helps them firm up and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, transfer them to a serving platter and let the festivities begin! Just watch how quickly they disappear.
Notes
You can make these cheese balls up to two days in advance. They pair wonderfully with crackers, grapes, or a crisp veggie platter.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheese ball
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Christmas appetizer, cheese ball recipe, holiday snacks