Experience the joy of bite-sized indulgence with our Delightful Bites: Mini Cheese Balls! These charming little appetizers combine a variety of cheeses into compact, flavorful spheres, rolled in a crunchy coating. Perfect for entertaining, these mini cheese balls are a fun and elegant way to kick off any gathering.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Yields 15 mini cheese balls
- Serving Size: 1 mini cheese ball
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 1g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 6g
Ingredients
- Cream cheese, softened - 8 ounces
- Sharp cheddar cheese, grated - 1 cup
- Garlic powder - 1 teaspoon
- Worcestershire sauce - 1 tablespoon
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped - ¼ cup
- Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) - 1 cup
- Dried cranberries, finely chopped - ½ cup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation
- In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut.
- In separate bowls, place the chopped nuts and dried cranberries.
- Roll each cheese ball first in the parsley, then in either the nuts or cranberries until fully coated.
- Place the mini cheese balls on a tray and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Serve chilled with crackers or baguette slices.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Use gloves or slightly wet hands to prevent sticking when forming the cheese balls.
- Experiment with different coatings like sesame seeds, chives, or bacon bits.
- Make these ahead of time and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely, feel free to experiment with gouda, blue cheese, or your favorites.
How long do these mini cheese balls last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze these cheese balls?
Yes, they can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Your Delightful Bites: Mini Cheese Balls are ready to charm your guests with their irresistible flavors and cute appearance. Perfect for any occasion, these little gems offer a delightful burst of cheese in every bite. So, grab a platter, display these beauties, and watch them disappear as everyone enjoys this cheesy delight!