Cheese Almond Ball
Cheese Almond Ball offers a rich, savory flavor combination of cheeses and toasted almonds, ideal as an appetizer or party snack for cheese lovers and nut enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese, shredded Cheddar cheese, cold pack cheese, milk, and grated onion until well blended.
- Chill the mixture at least one hour.
- Form the mixture into a ball and wrap in waxed paper.
- Chill the ball for several hours or overnight.
- Chop the remaining toasted sliced almonds and mix with chopped parsley.
- Roll the cheese ball in the almond and parsley mixture until coated.
- Serve with assorted crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure your cream cheese is thoroughly softened before mixing. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with any sharp cheese of your choice. If you want a different flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or using fresh herbs instead of parsley. For a twist, try rolling the ball in crushed nuts like walnuts or using a mix of both almonds and walnuts.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese Almond Ball pairs beautifully with assorted crackers and can be served alongside fresh vegetable sticks for a colorful platter. To elevate your appetizer spread, consider serving it with a side of fruit preserves or honey. It also makes a great addition to a cheese board featuring other American recipes or a charcuterie selection.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To maintain its shape, avoid pressing down on the ball. Reheat gently if desired, but it's typically served cold. Enjoy it with crackers straight from the fridge for a quick snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Almond Ball contains roughly 845 calories, with 49g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (191% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (102% of the Daily Value), and protein (97% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1441mg per serving (63% 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 the cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. After rolling it in the almond and parsley mixture, wrap it well in waxed paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier when served.
What can I serve with the Cheese Almond Ball?
This cheese ball is perfect with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or even sliced fruits like apples and pears for a refreshing contrast.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese if you prefer a lighter option. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ slightly. Ensure it’s softened well to achieve a smooth mixture.
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).