Cyndi'S Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory cheese ball packed with chopped salad olives, perfect for parties or appetizer platters. Its rich flavors and crunchy pecan coating make it a crowd-pleaser, especially for those who enjoy tangy and nutty tastes combined in a simple, no-bake treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set the cream cheese and margarine out to soften.
- Mix the cream cheese and margarine together until smooth.
- Add the chopped salad olives to the mixture and combine.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like garlic powder or onion powder to the mixture. If you prefer a different texture, swap out the salad olives for diced pickles or sun-dried tomatoes. For a creamier cheese ball, use a blend of cream cheese and goat cheese. This recipe is great for entertaining and can be served alongside crackers or fresh vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, veggie sticks, or toasted bread for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Pudding Icing for a sweet contrast. For an appealing presentation, place it on a platter surrounded by fresh herbs or sliced fruits.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to freeze it, shape it into a ball, wrap it well, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cyndi'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 686 calories, with 5g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 567mg per serving (25% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses! Cream cheese can be blended with cheddar, blue cheese, or even a flavored cheese spread for unique flavors. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will change, so adjust other ingredients accordingly.
How long can I keep the cheese ball before serving?
You can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just make sure to wrap it tightly and refrigerate it. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier spreading.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the cream cheese and margarine with vegan cream cheese and a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Ensure your salad olives are also vegan-friendly, and you’ll have a delicious vegan cheese ball that everyone can enjoy.
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).