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Nostalgic Cheese Ball Charm

This cheese ball is a creamy, cheesy appetizer made by blending softened cream cheese with shredded sharp cheddar, herbs, and seasonings. It’s shaped into a round and coated in toasted nuts or herbs, resulting in a firm yet creamy exterior with a rich, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Perfect for parties or cozy nights, it evokes childhood memories with every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened at room temperature
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 dash Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup toasted pecans or walnuts chopped or crushed for coating
  • Optional additional herbs or spices e.g., parsley, dill, smoked paprika

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Plastic wrap or parchment paper
  • Skillet
  • Serving platter

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar, stirring with a spatula until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and uniform in texture.
  2. Add the chopped chives, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix well to evenly distribute the herbs and seasonings, and notice the vibrant green bits and speckled spices.
  3. If the mixture feels too stiff, stir in a teaspoon of mayonnaise or sour cream to loosen it slightly, making it easier to shape.
  4. Scoop the cheesy mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently shape it into a round ball, pressing firmly to compact it. Wrap it tightly and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  5. While the cheese ball chills, toast the chopped nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant—about 3 to 4 minutes. Let the nuts cool slightly.
  6. Remove the chilled cheese ball from the fridge and place it on a serving platter. Gently roll it in the toasted nuts, pressing slightly to ensure they adhere evenly all over the surface.
  7. Garnish with extra herbs if desired, then let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly and release its enticing aroma.
  8. Serve the cheese ball with crusty bread, crackers, or crisp vegetables, and enjoy the creamy, crunchy contrast that makes this dish a crowd favorite.

Notes

For extra flavor, try mixing in chopped cooked bacon or olives. Chill the cheese ball for up to 3 days for the best taste and texture.