Cheese Ball Bites are the perfect party appetizer, blending creamy cheese with a crunchy exterior for a delicious snack that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. These bite-sized treats are crowd-pleasers and can be customized to fit any flavor profile, making them a versatile addition to your menu.
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
- Paprika: ½ tsp
- Green Onions: 2, finely chopped
- Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and crumbled
- Chopped Nuts: ½ cup (e.g., pecans or walnuts)
- Parsley: 2 tbsp, finely chopped (optional for garnish)
- Pretzel Sticks: Optional, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and chopped green onions. Mix until well blended.
- Form the Balls: Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, take portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls.
- Prepare the Coating: On a plate, mix the crumbled bacon, chopped nuts, and parsley (if using). Roll each cheese ball in the mixture until fully coated.
- Chill: Place the coated cheese balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Serve: Insert pretzel sticks into each cheese ball for easy serving, or serve as is with toothpicks on the side.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Cheese Ball Bites are best served chilled to maintain their shape and texture. Arrange them on a platter with pretzel sticks for easy grabbing.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cheese may become grainy.
FAQs
1. Can I make Cheese Ball Bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
2. What can I use instead of nuts in the coating?
You can substitute nuts with crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even more crumbled bacon.
3. Are Cheese Ball Bites gluten-free?
They can be made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients, including bacon and any coating substitutes, are gluten-free.
4. Can I customize the flavor of Cheese Ball Bites?
Absolutely! Add herbs, spices, or different types of cheese to match your preference. You can also mix in ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or jalapeños for added flavor.
CHEESE BALL BITES
These bite-sized cheese balls are creamy, flavorful, and perfect for parties or gatherings! Made with a blend of cheeses and coated in a crunchy topping, they’re easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 cheese ball bites 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- For the Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled bacon (optional)
- 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (optional)
- For Serving:
- Mini pretzel sticks (optional)
- Crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Shape the Balls:
- Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the cheese mixture. Roll each portion into a small ball, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow dish, mix together the chopped pecans, parsley, bacon, and/or everything bagel seasoning.
- Coat the Cheese Balls:
- Roll each cheese ball in the coating mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Serve or Chill:
- Insert a mini pretzel stick into each cheese ball if desired. Arrange on a platter with crackers. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Customize the flavors by adding your favorite seasonings or cheeses.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.