Cream Cheese Nut Ball
Cream cheese nut balls offer a creamy, savory flavor with crunchy pecans, perfect as an appetizer or party snack for cheese lovers and those who enjoy flavorful bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except ground pecans and the cherry together until well combined.
- Form the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the ball in ground pecans until evenly coated.
- Top with a cherry.
- Refrigerate for 8 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the horseradish with prepared mustard for a milder flavor. If you're short on time, consider using pre-chopped nuts. Enhance the taste by adding finely chopped green onions or dill. This nut ball pairs beautifully with festive cooked carrots for a colorful appetizer spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cream cheese nut ball with an assortment of crackers or fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer. It also makes a great addition to a holiday cheese platter alongside festive cooked carrots and a selection of olives. Pair it with a refreshing drink, like a Sweet Herb Sorbet, for a balanced and enjoyable snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To maintain its shape and texture, avoid freezing the cream cheese nut ball, as it may become watery upon thawing. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for optimal flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Nut Ball contains roughly 114 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g 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 this nut ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the nut ball a day in advance. After rolling it in the pecans, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even tastier when served the next day.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes. You can also use a mix of nuts for added flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop them finely for even coating.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! To add a kick, incorporate some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture. You can also use spicy horseradish instead of the regular one for an extra layer of heat.
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).