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Homemade Cheese Ball

This cheese ball is a nostalgic, hands-on appetizer made by mixing softened cream cheese with shredded sharp cheddar, herbs, and spices, then shaping it into a rustic sphere. Coated with toasted nuts or herbs, it offers a delightful combination of creamy, crunchy, and flavorful textures. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or holiday tables, it invites playful shaping and customizing flavors to suit your mood.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz block cream cheese softened at room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese preferably aged for more flavor
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs such as chives or parsley
  • 1 teaspoon paprika for color and subtle warmth
  • ½ cup toasted pecans chopped, for coating

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Rubber spatula
  • Plastic wrap
  • Sharp knife
  • Chopping board

Method
 

  1. Place the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl and use a spatula to stir until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. The mixture should be soft and slightly fluffy.
  2. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the cream cheese. Fold together until evenly combined, creating a marbled, vibrant mixture with a cheesy aroma.
  3. Stir in the chopped herbs and paprika, mixing thoroughly. You should see flecks of green and a hint of red, infusing the mixture with fresh flavor and color.
  4. Use your hands to gently shape the cheese mixture into a round ball, pressing firmly but smoothly to create a rustic sphere. It should feel firm but pliable.
  5. Place the chopped toasted pecans in a shallow dish. Roll the cheese ball in the nuts, pressing lightly to coat evenly with crunchy, toasted bits.
  6. Wrap the coated cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing flavors to meld and the shape to firm up.
  7. Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap and let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly for easier slicing.
  8. Slice the cheese ball with a sharp knife into wedges or rounds and arrange on a platter. Serve with crackers, bread slices, or fresh veggie sticks for dipping.

Notes

Feel free to customize this cheese ball with your favorite herbs, spices, or coatings like chopped pistachios or everything bagel seasoning. Make it ahead for easier party prep and enjoy the tactile fun of shaping your own cheesy masterpiece.