Fruited Cheese Balls
Creamy cheese balls studded with dried fruits and nuts, perfect for a sweet-savory appetizer or festive treat, appealing to those who enjoy rich, textured flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- If dried apricots are used, chop and soak in 1 cup water for 2 hours; drain.
- Alternatively, use canned apricots as preferred.
- Combine grated cheese, softened cream cheese, chopped dried apricots, chopped dates, golden raisins, poppy seed, seasoned salt, and chopped pecans.
- Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Optional: Chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique twist, try substituting the pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut flavor. If you want to enhance the dish, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheese mixture. Remember to let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing. These cheese balls can also be rolled in extra chopped nuts for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
These fruited cheese balls make an excellent appetizer for parties or gatherings. Serve them on a platter with crackers or fresh fruits for a delightful contrast. They pair beautifully with Baked Gouda Or Brie Cheese for a cheese board, or try them alongside a fresh Scandinavian Cabbage Salad for a refreshing meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fruited cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. To enjoy them again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and serve cold or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruited Cheese Balls contains roughly 526 calories, with 8g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and potassium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1762mg per serving (77% 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?
Absolutely! While mild cheese works best, feel free to experiment with sharper varieties like cheddar or gouda for added flavor. Just keep in mind that this may alter the overall taste of the cheese balls, so balance it with the cream cheese to maintain creaminess.
How can I make these cheese balls vegan?
To create a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy cheese that melts well. Additionally, you can enhance the flavor with nutritional yeast. Ensure all other ingredients, such as the dried fruits and nuts, are vegan-friendly.
What can I serve these cheese balls with?
These fruited cheese balls are versatile and can be served with a variety of accompaniments. Pair them with an assortment of crackers, fresh veggies, or a selection of fruits. They also complement well with sweet chutneys or honey for a delightful contrast.
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).