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Homemade Cheese Ball

This cheese ball combines softened cream cheese with shredded cheese, herbs, and spices to create a creamy, tangy mixture that is shaped into a ball and coated with toasted nuts or herbs. Its final texture is smooth and firm, with a crunchy exterior that makes it perfect for spreading or serving with crackers and bread. The process emphasizes tactile mixing, shaping, and coating, resulting in a cozy, homemade appetizer.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened at room temperature
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese finely shredded
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs parsley or chives
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 cup chopped toasted nuts walnuts or pecans

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Small plate
  • Knife or scoop

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients and tools. Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
  2. Add the softened cream cheese to your medium mixing bowl. Use a spatula to gently soften and loosen it if needed.
  3. Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mixing until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. You should see a creamy, slightly fluffy texture.
  4. Add chopped fresh herbs and sprinkle smoked paprika into the mixture. Gently fold everything together, letting the herbs release their aroma and the paprika add a subtle smoky hue.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to shape.
  6. Once chilled, scoop out the cheese mixture with a spoon or scoop and use your hands to gently shape it into a ball about 8 centimeters in diameter.
  7. Place the shaped cheese ball onto your small plate. Press chopped toasted nuts into the surface, rolling the ball gently to ensure the coating sticks evenly.
  8. Refrigerate the coated cheese ball for an additional 15 minutes to set the coating and firm up the shape.
  9. Remove the cheese ball from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This enhances flavor and makes it easier to spread if desired.
  10. Serve your cheese ball with crackers, sliced bread, or fresh vegetables. Enjoy the creamy texture with the crunchy coating in every bite.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture before chilling. Feel free to experiment with different coatings like chopped herbs or spicy paprika for variety.