Cheese Hermits
Cheese Hermits are savory, nut-studded cheese balls with a hint of spice, perfect as an appetizer or snack for cheese lovers and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grate the cheddar cheese.
- Mix the grated cheese with oleo, flour, Worcestershire, chopped nuts, salt, and red pepper until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small balls about 1 teaspoon each.
- Place the balls on a cookie sheet, 1 inch apart.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the oleo with cream cheese. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the red pepper. Ensure the cheddar is finely grated to help it melt evenly into the dough. These cheese hermits can be enjoyed as a savory snack or appetizer, similar to the flavors found in Blue Cheese Macaroni Salad.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese hermits make a delightful appetizer for gatherings and pair wonderfully with a tangy dip or alongside a fresh salad. Consider serving them with a side of Cream Cheese Pinch Cookies for a sweet contrast. They are also great as a snack with cocktails during happy hour or as part of a charcuterie board.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese hermits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Hermits contains roughly 373 calories, with 17g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (170% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 513mg per serving (22% 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 these cheese hermits in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just form the balls and place them on the cookie sheet before chilling. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before placing them in the oven.
What type of nuts work best in this recipe?
You can use any finely chopped nuts you prefer, such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds. Each type will impart a unique flavor and texture. If you want a nut-free option, you can simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
How can I adjust the spice level in these hermits?
To adjust the spice level, you can increase or decrease the amount of red pepper to your taste. For a milder version, reduce it to an eighth of a teaspoon. Alternatively, if you enjoy more heat, you could add a bit of freshly cracked black pepper or even a dash of hot sauce to the 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).