Blue Cheese Olive Ball
A savory cheese ball filled with blue cheese, olives, and pecans, perfect for entertaining and pairs well with crackers. Rich, tangy, and crunchy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cream cheese, butter or margarine, and brandy; beat at medium speed of an electric mixer until smooth.
- Add the blue cheese and beat well.
- Stir in the chopped chives and chopped olives.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and roll in the chopped pecans.
- Refrigerate overnight to allow the flavor to ripen.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a blend of cream cheese and mascarpone. You can substitute the blue cheese with feta for a milder flavor or use a vegan cream cheese for a plant-based version. When mixing, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier blending. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Blue Cheese Olive Ball with an assortment of crackers and sliced baguette for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or a light beer. For added flavor, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit platter or a salad to balance the richness of the cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep the pecans crunchy, consider rolling the ball in the pecans just before serving. This dish is best enjoyed chilled, so there's no need to reheat; simply take it out of the fridge and serve.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blue Cheese Olive Ball contains roughly 1073 calories, with 13g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (221% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (118% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this Blue Cheese Olive Ball can be made a day in advance. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator overnight to enhance the flavors. Just be sure to roll it in the pecans right before serving to maintain their crunch.
What can I use if I don't have brandy?
If brandy is not available, you can substitute it with a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar for a similar tang. Alternatively, omit the alcohol altogether, and the ball will still be delicious without it.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While blue cheese adds a distinct flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or a sharp cheddar. Just keep in mind that the overall taste and texture may change, so choose a cheese that complements the other ingredients.
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).