Cheese Ball Spread
A creamy, flavorful cheese ball spread combining sharp cheeses and crunchy pecans, perfect for parties or as an elegant appetizer for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the cream cheese, Old English cheese, Roquefort cheese, half of the chopped pecans, and parsley flakes until well combined.
- Shape the cheese mixture into a ball.
- Freeze the cheese ball for 30 minutes.
- Remove the cheese ball from the freezer.
- Roll the cheese ball into the remaining chopped pecans and parsley flakes to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- May be made 3 or 4 days ahead of time.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider substituting the Roquefort cheese with a milder blue cheese or even feta. You can also add herbs like dill or chives for a fresh twist. This cheese ball pairs wonderfully with crackers or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping. It also makes a delightful appetizer for gatherings or parties. Enhance your spread by including a fruit platter or a selection of cured meats. This recipe is perfect for pairing with a variety of beverages, including wine or even coffee, especially alongside treats like Morning Coffee Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’ve made the cheese ball ahead of time, it can also be kept in the freezer for up to a month. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Ball Spread contains roughly 213 calories, with 4g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (10% 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 made 3 to 4 days in advance. Just prepare it, coat it in pecans, and refrigerate until you are ready to serve. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you don't have pecans or have a nut allergy, you can substitute them with chopped walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. Just be mindful that this will change the flavor profile slightly.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add a kick to your cheese ball, consider mixing in some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture. This addition will give it an exciting flavor that pairs well with the creamy cheeses.
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).