Easy Cheesy Surprises
Cheesy surprises wrapped around various fillings make for fun, customizable snacks perfect for parties and teens, combining cheesy flavor with a variety of tasty surprises.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Leave margarine and cheese spread at room temperature until softened, then mix with flour to form a dough.
- Refrigerate the dough to make it easier to handle.
- While the dough chills, prepare the fillings such as stuffed olives (cut in half and blotted dry), Little Smokies sausages (cut in thirds or fourths), pecan halves, or cocktail onions.
- Wrap a spoonful of the dough around each surprise filling and roll into a ball.
- Place the balls on a cookie sheet and bake about 15 minutes at 350°F until they are slightly brown on the bottom.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving or store in the refrigerator between layers of waxed paper for later use.
- They can be baked ahead of time and reheated in the microwave.
- Perfect for teen parties, as guests enjoy guessing the surprise inside each one.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting the Kraft Old English cheese spread with a sharp cheddar or a spicy cheese spread to enhance flavor. If pecans aren't available, walnuts make a great alternative. Make sure to keep the dough chilled while working to ensure it’s manageable. If using larger fillings, adjust the dough amount accordingly to ensure a proper seal around the surprise.
Serving Suggestions
These Easy Cheesy Surprises are perfect for teen parties and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue for added flavor. Pair them with a fresh vegetable platter or a light salad to balance the richness. They also make a delightful appetizer when served alongside cocktails or mocktails.
Storage & Reheating
Store the leftover cheesy surprises in an airtight container in the refrigerator, layered with waxed paper to prevent sticking. They can be reheated in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Cheesy Surprises contains roughly 95 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 8g fat.
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 freeze these cheesy surprises?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to three months. Just place them on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.
What other fillings can I use?
Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Consider using diced cooked chicken, various cheeses, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combinations.
How do I ensure the dough stays soft?
Make sure both the margarine and cheese spread are at room temperature before mixing, as this helps create a smooth dough. If the dough becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping.
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).