Creamy Cheddar Pecan Cheese Ball
This creamy cheddar pecan cheese ball is a delightful appetizer, perfect for parties. It combines sharp cheddar with cream cheese, pecans, green onions, and savory seasonings, then chilled and coated for serving.
Equipment
- medium-sized mixing bowl
- sturdy spoon
- rubber spatula
- plastic wrap
Ingredients
Cheese Ball Mixture
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened full-fat recommended
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded preferred
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- cayenne pepper optional
For Coating (Optional)
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- Crumbled cooked bacon bits
Instructions
Preparation
- Soften the cream cheese by leaving it out for 30-60 minutes or microwaving for 15-30 seconds until pliable.
Mixing
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Mix thoroughly with a sturdy spoon or spatula until uniform and smooth.
- Gently fold in the ½ cup of finely chopped pecans.
Shaping and Chilling
- Transfer the mixture onto plastic wrap, then gather and mold it into a round ball shape.
- Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for at least 1-2 hours to firm up and allow flavors to meld.
Serving
- Just before serving, unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in your chosen coating (parsley, pecans, or bacon bits) until evenly covered.
- Place the coated cheese ball on a platter and serve with crackers, chips, pita bread, or vegetable sticks.
Notes
For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and freshly shredded sharp cheddar. The cheese ball can be prepared a day in advance; just add the coating before serving. Feel free to experiment with other coatings like everything bagel seasoning or crushed pretzels.