Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with Mama's legendary Baked Olive Balls - a mouthwatering appetizer that transforms simple ingredients into pure culinary magic! These golden, crispy bites are packed with savory Parmesan and perfectly chopped olives, promising to be the star of any gathering. Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or wanting to impress your family with a homemade treat, these olive balls are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 24 balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chopped olives (green and black)
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Use a hand mixer or a wooden spoon to cream them together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Add the garlic powder and salt to the butter and cheese mixture. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring continuously until a dough begins to form. It should be thick but manageable.
- Fold in the chopped olives, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The olives add a savory flavor and a nice texture to the balls.
- Using your hands, shape the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to allow for expansion while baking.
- Once all the dough has been shaped into balls and placed on the baking sheet, place the sheet in the preheated oven.
- Bake the olive balls for about 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
- After baking, remove the sheet from the oven and let the olive balls cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving platter.
- Serve Mama's Baked Olive Balls warm as an appetizer or snack. They pair well with marinara sauce or a simple olive oil dip.
Tips
- Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and a smoother dough consistency.
- Chop olives finely to ensure even distribution and better texture in each bite.
- For extra flavor, try mixing green and black olives for a more complex taste profile.
- Don't overwork the dough - mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the balls tender.
- Use a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon to create uniform-sized balls for even baking.
- Allow the olive balls to cool slightly before serving to let the cheese and flavors settle.
- For a crispy exterior, brush the balls with a little olive oil before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to maintain their crispness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 75kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
