Amaretto Cheese Ball
A creamy, nutty cheese ball infused with Amaretto and raisins, perfect for parties and entertaining, offering a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the grated cheddar cheese, softened butter, cream cheese, raisins, and Amaretto until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and roll in chopped nuts.
- Serve with assorted crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the Amaretto to your liking. For a nut-free version, you can roll the cheese ball in toasted coconut or simply skip the rolling step altogether. This cheese ball pairs beautifully with *Quick Fruit Squares for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Amaretto Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh fruits, and vegetables for a well-rounded appetizer. It also pairs nicely with a glass of sweet white wine or a light beer. Consider incorporating it into a cheese platter alongside other favorites like cheddar and Gouda for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To serve again, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change after thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Amaretto Cheese Ball contains roughly 1111 calories, with 28g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 97g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 716mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow it to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for Amaretto?
If you want a non-alcoholic option, you can use almond extract for a similar flavor profile. Start with just 1 teaspoon, as it's more concentrated than Amaretto. Alternatively, you could use a different liqueur, such as Frangelico, for a unique twist.
How can I vary the ingredients in this recipe?
Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, such as goat cheese or blue cheese, for a different flavor. You can also add herbs like chives or parsley for freshness, or replace raisins with dried cranberries or apricots for a fruity touch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).