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Flavorful Cheese Ball with a Crunchy Coating

This cheese ball is a nostalgic appetizer that combines creamy, tangy cheese with a crunchy exterior, enhanced by unexpected spices and herbs. It involves mixing softened cheeses and flavorings, shaping into a ball, and coating with nuts or spices for texture and aroma. The final dish offers a rustic, inviting appearance with a rich, savory flavor profile.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 minute
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened at room temperature
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese grated finely
  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs chopped, such as parsley or chives
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika or your favorite spice
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans chopped

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula
  • Plate or platter
  • Knife or small spoon

Method
 

  1. Place the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl and use a spatula to beat it until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  2. Add the grated cheddar cheese, chopped herbs, and smoked paprika to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined, creating a fragrant, slightly sticky mixture.
  3. Transfer the cheese mixture onto a clean surface and use your hands to shape it into a tight, round ball, about the size of a grapefruit. Don’t worry if it’s a little rustic—this adds charm.
  4. Roll the cheese ball in the toasted pecans, pressing gently so they adhere evenly to the surface, creating a crunchy, textured exterior.
  5. Place the coated cheese ball on a plate or platter, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the shape set.
  6. Remove the cheese ball from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly and enhance aroma before serving.
  7. Serve the cheese ball with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. Enjoy the creamy interior contrasted with the crunchy coating and aromatic spices.

Notes

Feel free to customize with different herbs, spices, or coatings like crushed nuts or fried onions for variety. Chilling the cheese ball enhances flavor and helps it hold its shape during serving.