Cheese Apple
A creamy, tangy cheese ball infused with garlic, chopped olives, and pecans, coated in paprika, perfect for serving with crackers at parties or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all cheeses, garlic, grated onion, Worcestershire sauce, chopped olives, and chopped pecans thoroughly in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in paprika until evenly coated.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of cream cheese and mascarpone. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. For a delightful twist, substitute the chopped pecans with walnuts or almonds. Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese Apple pairs beautifully with crackers, fresh vegetables, or even apple slices for a sweet contrast. For a complete spread, consider serving it alongside a selection of cured meats or other appetizers like Mushroom Deluxe. It also makes an excellent addition to a charcuterie board for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you need to reheat, it's best to let it come to room temperature before serving, as this enhances the flavors. Avoid reheating in the microwave to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Apple contains roughly 1019 calories, with 45g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (90% of the Daily Value), calcium (89% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2114mg per serving (92% 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 this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, this cheese ball can be prepared a day or two in advance. Just shape it into a ball, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Be sure to roll it in paprika just before serving for a fresh look.
What can I use instead of pimento cheese?
If you don't have pimento cheese, you can create a substitute by mixing shredded cheddar with diced roasted red peppers and a bit of mayonnaise. This will give you a similar creamy and tangy flavor profile that works well in this recipe.
What are some good accompaniments for this dish?
This cheese ball is versatile and pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with assorted crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables like bell pepper strips and cucumber slices. It also complements sweet items like candied mint leaves or violets for a unique flair.
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).