Date Cheese Ball
A rich, creamy cheese ball infused with sweet dates and brandy, coated with toasted almonds. Perfect as an elegant appetizer for gatherings or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cheddar cheese, butter, dates, and brandy in a mixing bowl.
- Mix until well blended and smooth.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Cover the cheese ball with toasted slivered almonds.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using cream cheese alongside the cheddar. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, you can substitute walnuts for the slivered almonds. Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing. Adjust the amount of brandy to your taste, or replace it with orange juice for a non-alcoholic variation. This dish is perfect for gatherings, much like Caviar Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh fruit, or vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with wine or cocktails. You might also consider serving it alongside other savory snacks, like Little Devils, for a varied spread. Garnish with additional chopped dates or herbs for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. If you need to reheat it, allow it to come to room temperature before serving, but it’s best enjoyed cold. Avoid freezing as this may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Cheese Ball contains roughly 814 calories, with 8g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value), protein (16% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value). 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 cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Simply shape it and cover it with almonds before refrigerating. This allows the flavors to develop more fully. Just remember to take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
What can I use instead of dates?
If you don’t have dates on hand, dried figs or apricots can serve as excellent substitutes, adding a similar sweetness. You can also use raisins for a different flavor profile, but chop them into smaller pieces for a better texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Date Cheese Ball is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great addition to vegetarian recipes. Just ensure that the butter used is not sourced from animal rennet, as some brands may use additives that are not vegetarian.
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).