Christmas Cheese
A creamy, savory cheese ball perfect for holiday gatherings or festive occasions. Loaded with American and cream cheese, chopped olives, garlic, and pecans, it offers a rich flavor with a hint of salt and paprika. Ideal served with crackers, it’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer that adds a festive touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients well.
- Sprinkle with paprika and roll into a ball.
- Wrap in foil and chill.
- Slice as needed and serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a milder flavor, use a blend of American cheese and cheddar. You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. Adding herbs like dill or chives can enhance the taste. This cheese ball pairs beautifully with the festive flavors of Pecan Pie(Elvis Presley'S Favorite).
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or apple slices for a refreshing contrast. It makes an excellent addition to a holiday cheese platter alongside other festive treats. Pair it with drinks like Apple Milk Punch for a delightful holiday gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month. To serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and slice as needed, ensuring it returns to a creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Cheese contains roughly 1062 calories, with 25g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. Try blending cream cheese with flavored cheeses like herb or garlic-infused varieties to create unique flavors. Just ensure the total quantity remains the same for the right consistency.
How long can I keep this cheese ball in the fridge?
The cheese ball can be kept in the fridge for about a week if stored properly. Make sure it's wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with the cheese ball?
This cheese ball pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with assorted crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables like celery and bell peppers for dipping. A side of fruit preserves can also complement the savory flavors.
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).