Can I freeze this cheese ball recipe?

While you can freeze a cheese ball, the texture of the cream cheese may become slightly crumbly once thawed. If you must freeze it, do so without the nut coating, wrap it in multiple layers of plastic wrap and foil, and thaw it in the fridge for 24 hours before rolling in fresh nuts.

How long does a cheese ball last in the fridge?

A homemade cheese ball recipe will typically stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. However, the nuts may lose their crunch over time, so it's best to add the coating on the day you plan to serve it.

What are the best crackers for a cheese ball?

Sturdy crackers like butter crackers (Ritz), wheat thins, or toasted baguette slices are best. You want something that can support the weight of the thick cheese mixture without snapping.

Can I make this cheese ball recipe nut-free?

Absolutely! Instead of pecans, you can coat the cheese ball in crispy bacon bits, chopped fresh herbs (like chives or parsley), or even crushed pretzels for a nut-free crunch.

cheese ball recipe: 5 Reasons Why This Is the Best Ever

Name: Classic Holiday Pecan Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 1 cup pecans, finely chopped and toasted; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional); Assorted crackers and vegetables for serving

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
1 cup pecans, finely chopped and toasted
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Assorted crackers and vegetables for serving

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Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Step 2: Use a hand mixer on medium speed or a large spatula to blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Scoop the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Bring the edges of the plastic wrap together and twist to form the cheese into a tight ball shape.
Step 4: Place the wrapped cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow it to firm up and for the flavors to develop.
Step 5: Just before serving, place the chopped toasted pecans and optional parsley on a shallow plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the nuts until it is completely and evenly coated.
Step 6: Transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter and serve immediately with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.

Notes

For the best results, always grate your own cheddar cheese. To make it easier to handle, keep the cheese ball in the fridge until the very moment you are ready to roll it in the nuts.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Drinks, Snacks & Holiday Treats
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Calories: 210
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 45mg