mini cheese balls

Mini Cheese Balls

Yield: About 24 mini cheese balls

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour (optional, for firmer texture)

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients

Cheese Ball Base:

• 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded

• 1/4 cup (25 g) crumbled blue cheese or feta (optional)

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or green onions

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• Salt, to taste

Coating Options (choose 2–3 for variety):

• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley or dill

• 1/4 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans, almonds, or walnuts), toasted

• 1/4 cup finely chopped dried cranberries

• 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon

• 1/4 cup finely shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese

• Crushed pretzels or everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Cheese Mixture:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, blue cheese (if using), chives, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.

2. Mix well until smooth and fully combined.

2. Chill (Optional but Recommended):

• Cover and refrigerate the cheese mixture for 30 minutes to 1 hour to firm it up. This makes shaping easier.

3. Shape the Mini Cheese Balls:

1. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture.

2. Roll into a ball using clean hands. Repeat with remaining mixture.

3. You should get approximately 24 cheese balls.

4. Coat:

1. Roll each cheese ball in the coating(s) of your choice until evenly covered.

2. Use a small bowl for each topping for easy rolling.

5. Serve or Store:

• Arrange on a serving platter.

• Insert toothpicks or pretzel sticks into each ball for easy handling (optional).

• Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with assorted crackers, toasted baguette slices, sliced cucumbers, or celery sticks.

• Great addition to appetizer boards and holiday spreads.

Would you like a sweet version (e.g. honey-nut cream cheese bites) or a spicy variation with jalapeño or hot sauce?