Cheese Olive Balls
Cheese Olive Balls are savory, bite-sized treats featuring a perfect blend of sharp cheddar cheese and briny olives, wrapped in a tender dough. Baked until golden, they make an excellent appetizer or party snack for cheese lovers and those who enjoy flavorful, portable finger foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the grated cheddar cheese and margarine at room temperature until smooth.
- Add the flour, salt, and paprika to the cheese mixture and mix well to form a dough.
- Pinch off small pieces of dough and wrap each around a pitted olive to form a ball.
- Place the cheese olive balls on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using sharp cheddar cheese instead of mild. If you're short on margarine, unsalted butter can be a great substitute. To prevent the dough from sticking, keep your hands slightly floured while forming the balls. You can also experiment with different types of olives like kalamata or green for varied taste. These cheese olive balls are perfect for parties or game day snacks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese olive balls as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering or alongside a cheese platter. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or can be enjoyed with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of 'Berry' Delicious Fruit Shortcake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese olive balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain their crispiness while warming the cheese inside.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Olive Balls contains roughly 289 calories, with 9g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply take it out, let it soften for a few minutes, and then form the balls around the olives. This can save time when hosting.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for added kick. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as some cheeses may require adjustments to the flour amount to achieve the right dough consistency.
How can I make these cheese olive balls gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper binding. Additionally, check that the olives are gluten-free, as some brands may contain additives that are not gluten-free. Enjoy these tasty snacks without worry!
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).