Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game with a creamy, tangy, and irresistibly delicious cheese ball that takes just 15 minutes to prepare? This White Cheddar Cheese Ball with Chives is about to become your secret weapon for every gathering, from casual game nights to sophisticated dinner parties. Imagine a luxurious blend of cream cheese and sharp white cheddar, studded with fresh chives and optional crunchy nuts, creating a crowd-pleasing starter that will have everyone asking for your recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup chopped chives
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Remove cream cheese from refrigerator and allow it to soften at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes to ensure smooth mixing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded white cheddar cheese, chopped chives, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly using a hand mixer or wooden spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
- Place a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean work surface. Transfer the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and use the wrap to help shape the mixture into a round ball.
- If using nuts, spread them on a separate plate. Gently roll the cheese ball in the chopped nuts to create an optional crunchy exterior coating.
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.
- Before serving, remove from refrigerator 15-20 minutes to slightly soften. Serve with crackers, fresh vegetables, or bread for dipping.
- Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature for the smoothest, most spreadable texture.
- Cheese Selection: Use high-quality white cheddar for the best flavor profile. Freshly shredded cheese melts and blends more smoothly than pre-packaged shredded varieties.
- Nut Coating Trick: If using nuts, toast them lightly before chopping to enhance their flavor and provide an extra layer of crunch.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This cheese ball actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly, making it easier to spread and more flavorful.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
