Description
These mini cheese balls are shaped like Christmas ornaments, rolled in festive coatings, and topped with pretzels and rosemary for the hook and greenery. They are creamy, crunchy, sweet-savory, and easy to make.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups (about 450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar OR pepper jack
- ½ cup (120g) grated parmesan
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ½ cup chopped pecans (for Cranberry Pecan Coating)
- ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped (for Cranberry Pecan Coating)
- ½ cup finely chopped walnuts (for Herb Walnut Coating)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for Herb Walnut Coating)
- 2 tbsp chopped chives (for Herb Walnut Coating)
- 1 cup finely shredded cheddar (for Cheddar Paprika Coating)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (for Cheddar Paprika Coating)
- Everything bagel seasoning (for Everything Bagel Coating)
- Mini pretzel twists (for ornament hook)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional: for greenery)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add shredded cheese, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, chives, parsley, salt & pepper. Mix well until creamy and fully combined.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. Chilling makes shaping easier.
- Scoop out portions using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop. Roll each portion into a smooth ball. Place on parchment paper.
- For Cranberry-Pecan: Mix chopped pecans and dried cranberries. Roll the cheese balls until fully covered. For Cheddar-Paprika: Mix shredded cheddar and paprika. Press cheese onto the balls to coat. For Herb-Walnut: Mix walnuts with herbs and coat the balls. Mix and match colors to mimic ornaments.
- Insert half of a pretzel twist into the top of each ball. Add a small sprig of rosemary next to it for greenery (optional).
- Refrigerate at least 30 minutes to firm up. They become even better after a few hours.
Notes
- These cheese balls can be made ahead of time.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to customize the coatings to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheese ball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Holiday Ornament Cheese Balls, cheese balls, appetizers, festive snacks