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introduction
Mini Cheese Balls are small, tasty snacks that are perfect for any gathering. They are easy to make and will delight your guests. These little bites blend creamy cheese with crunchy nuts and fresh vegetables, making them an enjoyable appetizer.
why make this recipe
Making Mini Cheese Balls is a great way to impress friends and family at parties or holiday gatherings. They are quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Plus, they are customizable with your favorite ingredients. You can mix and match different cheeses and nuts to create your perfect flavor!
how to make Mini Cheese Balls
Ingredients :
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1/2 cup crushed walnuts or pecans
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, bell peppers, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients well until everything is combined.
- Using your hands, form small balls about the size of a golf ball with the mixture.
- Roll each cheese ball in the crushed walnuts or pecans until well coated.
- Place the cheese balls on a platter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
how to serve Mini Cheese Balls
Serve Mini Cheese Balls on a platter as an appetizer. They go well with crackers, sliced bread, or fresh vegetables. You can also offer a variety of dipping sauces for added flavor.
how to store Mini Cheese Balls
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Mini Cheese Balls can last up to a week in the fridge. Just make sure to keep them covered to maintain their freshness.
tips to make Mini Cheese Balls
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to mix more easily.
- Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne for heat.
- You can use different cheeses, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for diverse flavors.
variation
You can change the nuts used in the recipe to change the taste. Try using almonds, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Additionally, you may experiment with different herbs or spices to give more flavor to the cheese balls.
FAQs
1. Can I make Mini Cheese Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day in advance. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve.
2. What other ingredients can I add?
You can add diced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs like parsley or dill for variation.
3. Are Mini Cheese Balls gluten-free?
Yes, they are naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free nuts and serve with gluten-free crackers.
Mini Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Delightful small snacks blending creamy cheese with crunchy nuts and fresh vegetables, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1/2 cup crushed walnuts or pecans
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, bell peppers, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined.
- Using your hands, form small balls about the size of a golf ball with the mixture.
- Roll each cheese ball in the crushed walnuts or pecans until well coated.
- Place the cheese balls on a platter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can make these a day in advance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No Cooking Required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 cheese balls
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cheese balls, appetizers, snacks, gluten-free