Cheese Bells
Cheese Bells are delightful savory snacks combining sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and chopped vegetables, blended with flavorful seasonings. Perfect for parties, appetizers, or a quick snack, they offer a rich, cheesy taste with a hint of spice and freshness from the pimiento, green pepper, and onion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Cracker Barrel sharp Cheddar cheese food and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add chopped pimiento, chopped green pepper, and chopped onion to the cheese mixture.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice until well blended.
- Shape the mixture into small bells or desired shapes.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure both cheeses are at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the Cracker Barrel sharp Cheddar flavor cheese food with any sharp cheddar cheese if preferred. For added flavor, consider including herbs like dill or chives. If you want a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Cheese Bells make a delightful appetizer or party snack. Serve them with crackers or fresh vegetable sticks for a crunchy contrast. They pair beautifully with Asparagus With Mustard-Dill Sauce for a fresh flavor profile. Consider offering a selection of dips like ranch or salsa to complement the cheese flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cheese Bells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their freshness, you can freeze them for up to a month. To enjoy them later, thaw in the fridge overnight and serve chilled or let them come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Bells contains roughly 64 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
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 Cheese Bells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cheese Bells a day in advance. Shape them and refrigerate until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent drying out.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream cheese spread. These substitutes will maintain the creamy texture while reducing calories. However, the flavor might be slightly different, so adjust seasoning as needed.
How can I make these Cheese Bells spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture. You could also experiment with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra kick. Just taste and adjust to your preference.
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).