This Make-Ahead Holiday Cheese Ball Recipe is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for parties. Tested twice for smooth texture and easy slicing, it’s a crowd-favorite that comes together in 10 minutes — then chills until guests arrive. Serve it with crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggies for a festive and stress-free appetizer.
Ingredients
(Serves 10–12)
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 Tbsp green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ cup (60 g) chopped pecans or walnuts, for coating
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Crackers or veggie sticks, for serving
Swaps & Notes
| Need | Swap | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy-free | Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan cheddar | Keeps creamy texture, slightly softer set. |
| Nut-free | Roll in crushed pretzels or toasted breadcrumbs | Adds crunch without allergens. |
| Gluten-free | Serve with GF crackers or cucumber slices | Easy for mixed-diet gatherings. |
| No pork | Skip bacon add-ins or swap with smoked paprika | Preserves smoky flavor. |
| Make-ahead | Prepare 2–3 days ahead; wrap tightly in plastic | Flavor deepens as it chills. |
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Mix: In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in cheddar, onions, garlic powder, pepper, and paprika.
- Shape: Spoon mixture onto plastic wrap; shape into a ball using your hands or wrap.
- Coat & Chill: Mix nuts and parsley on a plate. Roll the ball until evenly coated. Chill at least 2 hours or up to 3 days.
Pro Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add 2 Tbsp diced roasted red pepper or 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce.
- To make it festive, shape into a pinecone or wreath and garnish with herbs.
- Mini cheese balls work great for portion control — perfect for buffets.
- Let it sit at room temp 20 minutes before serving for easy spreading.
- If freezing, wrap tightly in foil and thaw overnight in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crackers, pretzels, or sliced veggies like celery and bell peppers.
- Add to a charcuterie board with olives, fruit, and nuts.
- Serve with sparkling mocktails or non-alcoholic cider for holiday balance.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Up to 5 days, tightly wrapped.
Freeze: Up to 1 month; thaw overnight in fridge.
Reheat: Not needed — serve chilled or slightly softened.
Food safety: Keep under 40°F (4°C) and discard if left out more than 2 hours.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make the cheese ball a week in advance?
A1: Yes, but freeze it after shaping (before rolling in nuts). Thaw overnight, then coat before serving.
Q2: What nuts work best?
A2: Pecans add a classic flavor, but walnuts or almonds also work. For crunch without nuts, use crushed pretzels.
Q3: Can I use flavored cream cheese?
A3: Yes! Garlic-herb or chive cream cheese adds extra flavor — just reduce added seasonings slightly.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 210 | Protein: 6 g | Carbs: 2 g | Fat: 19 g