Bea'S Hot Olive Cheese Puffs
Bea's Hot Olive Cheese Puffs are savory, cheesy bites wrapped around tangy green olives, perfect as an appetizer or snack. The combination of sharp cheese, paprika, and stuffed olives creates a flavorful treat that is quick to prepare and can be made ahead for entertaining or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the grated sharp cheese and oleo until well combined.
- Add the flour and paprika to the cheese mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Take 1 teaspoon of the mixture, flatten it, and wrap it around an olive to form a ball.
- Place the cheese mixture-wrapped olives on a baking sheet.
- Bake in a 450°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Can be prepared early and frozen before baking; bake directly from frozen when ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the oleo is softened before blending with the cheese. You can substitute the sharp cheese with a milder variety if desired, though the flavor may be less intense. If you're short on time, consider using pre-stuffed olives. Feel free to experiment with spices, adding garlic powder or Italian herbs for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These hot olive cheese puffs make an excellent appetizer for gatherings or game day. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as a spicy aioli or a tangy mustard. They also complement a cheese platter or charcuterie board beautifully. Enjoy them alongside a refreshing salad or as part of a vegetarian recipes spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy. If frozen, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bea'S Hot Olive Cheese Puffs contains roughly 39 calories, with 2g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 use different types of olives for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of olives, such as black olives or Kalamata olives, based on your preference. Just ensure they are pitted and stuffed if you want to keep the original flavor profile. Experimenting with various olive types can add unique tastes to the cheese puffs.
How can I make these cheese puffs spicier?
To add spice, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture. You could also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick. Adjust the amount according to your preference for heat.
Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese and olive balls ahead of time and freeze them before baking. When you're ready to serve, simply bake them directly from frozen; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time for a perfect finish.
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).