Cheddar Cheese Crock(Makes Four 1-Cup Crocks)
Creamy, savory cheese balls infused with sharp cheddar, mustard, and pecans, perfect for gifting or entertaining, offering rich flavors and a delightful nutty crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shred the cheese into a large bowl.
- Work in the softened butter or margarine, prepared mustard, and Worcestershire sauce with a wooden spoon until the mixture is very smooth.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 45 minutes or until the mixture firms up.
- Chop 1 cup of pecans coarsely and spread them on wax paper.
- Divide the cheese mixture into four equal parts.
- Shape each part into a ball on a second piece of wax paper, then roll each ball in the chopped pecans.
- Pack each cheese ball into a 1-cup crock and garnish with remaining whole pecans.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to give as a gift, ideally within 2 weeks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the butter or margarine is fully softened before combining it with the cheese. If you prefer a different flavor, try using a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or a mild cheese. For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. This recipe is great for holiday gatherings or as a savory appetizer at parties.
Serving Suggestions
These cheddar cheese crocks make excellent appetizers for entertaining. Serve them with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or slices of baguette. Pairing with a glass of wine or the refreshing Deep Sea Punch can elevate the experience. They also make thoughtful gifts during the holidays, beautifully packaged in glass crocks.
Storage & Reheating
Store the packed cheese crocks in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. They can last for up to two weeks. If you need to reheat the cheese balls, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture; instead, serve them cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Cheese Crock(Makes Four 1-Cup Crocks) contains roughly 745 calories, with 29g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (65% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 954mg per serving (41% 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 use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese. While sharp Cheddar gives a distinct flavor, mixing in cheeses like Gouda or cream cheese can create a unique taste profile. Just be mindful that the texture may vary based on the cheese you choose.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
The ingredients in this recipe are already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure that the Worcestershire sauce you use is free of anchovies, as some brands contain fish. You can find vegetarian versions in most grocery stores.
What can I substitute for pecans if I have a nut allergy?
If you or your guests have a nut allergy, consider rolling the cheese balls in crushed crackers or pretzels for added crunch. You can also use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds as an alternative to pecans, which will still provide a nice texture and flavor.
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).