Description
This classic Cream Cheese Ball is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines smooth, tangy cream cheese with sharp cheddar, fresh green onions, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce. Rolled in toasted chopped pecans, it offers a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures, ideal for serving with crackers or sliced baguette at parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cream Cheese Ball Mixture
- 16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
- 1/4 cup green onions (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Coating
- 1 cup pecans (chopped and toasted)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, finely chopped green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper until well blended and smooth.
- Transfer mixture: Spoon the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap placed on a flat surface to prepare for shaping.
- Shape ball: Using the plastic wrap, gather the mixture and shape it into a smooth, compact ball. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up properly.
- Roll pecans: After chilling, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it evenly in the toasted chopped pecans, pressing gently so the nuts adhere to the surface completely.
- Serve: Place the prepared cream cheese ball on a serving platter and offer it alongside crackers or sliced baguette for a delicious appetizer.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- This cheese ball can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator to enhance flavors.
- For variety, try mixing in other ingredients such as chopped bacon, dried cranberries, or different types of nuts for coating.
- Allow the cheese ball to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best spreadable consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cream cheese ball, cheese appetizer, party appetizer, pecan cheese ball, holiday appetizer, no-cook cheese ball
