Imagine a dessert that combines the beloved flavors of classic carrot cake with the creamy decadence of a cheese ball - sounds irresistible, right? This show-stopping appetizer is about to become your new party favorite, blending the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and unexpected deliciousness. Whether you're hosting a gathering or looking for a unique treat that'll have your guests talking, this Carrot Cake Cheese Ball is guaranteed to be the star of any spread!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Graham crackers for serving
Instructions
- Remove cream cheese from refrigerator and let it soften at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes to ensure smooth blending.
- Drain crushed pineapple thoroughly using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, pressing out excess moisture to prevent the cheese ball from becoming too wet.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix using an electric mixer until ingredients are completely smooth and well incorporated.
- Gently fold in shredded carrots, drained crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts, stirring until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Line a small bowl with plastic wrap, allowing excess wrap to hang over the edges for easy removal.
- Transfer the cheese mixture into the plastic wrap-lined bowl, using a spatula to shape and compress the mixture into a compact ball.
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly with the overhanging plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and mixture to firm up.
- Before serving, unwrap the cheese ball and roll in additional chopped walnuts for extra texture and presentation.
- Serve chilled with graham crackers, allowing guests to spread the cheese ball directly onto crackers.
- Store any remaining cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature for the smoothest, lump-free mixture.
- Moisture Control: When draining the crushed pineapple, be extra thorough. Excess moisture can make your cheese ball too soft or runny.
- Mixing Technique: Use a gentle folding motion when adding carrots, pineapple, and nuts to maintain the mixture's integrity.
- Chilling is Crucial: Don't skip the 2-hour refrigeration time - this helps the flavors meld and the cheese ball firm up perfectly.
- Presentation Tip: Roll the cheese ball in fresh chopped walnuts just before serving for a beautiful, professional look.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This recipe can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with graham crackers, but also consider vanilla wafers or apple slices for variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 170kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
