Aunt Nanette'S Cheese Balls
Creamy, tangy cheese balls with sharp cheddar, rich bleu cheese, and crunchy walnuts, perfect as an appetizer or party snack for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the softened sharp Cheddar cheese, cream cheese, Bleu cheese, margarine, minced garlic, and walnuts in a food processor or blender.
- Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Form the mixture into two cheese balls.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the Bleu cheese with more sharp Cheddar or even a creamier cheese like goat cheese. Toasting the walnuts before mixing can enhance their flavor, giving your cheese balls an extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Nanette's Cheese Balls on a platter with an assortment of crackers and fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer. They pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light beer. For a themed spread, consider including other savory snacks like Hushwi(Stuffing) or Cauliflower Fritters to complement the cheese balls.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. When ready to serve, allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Nanette'S Cheese Balls contains roughly 548 calories, with 19g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 720mg 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 these cheese balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese balls a day in advance. After forming them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld, making them even tastier when served.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute walnuts with toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. These alternatives will still provide a nice crunch and complement the creamy cheeses well.
How can I make these cheese balls more visually appealing?
To elevate the presentation, roll the cheese balls in finely chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives, or coat them with colorful spices like paprika or everything bagel seasoning for added texture and color.
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).