Fruity Cheese Ball
A flavorful cheese ball filled with fruity strawberry preserves, combining sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and French onion dip for a savory-sweet appetizer perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except preserves.
- Form into a ball; then flatten and make a well in the center.
- Fill the well with strawberry preserves.
- Serve with crackers, especially Ritz crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangy twist, consider adding some chopped green onions or herbs like dill to the cheese mixture. If you don't have sharp Cheddar, mild Cheddar or even a mix of cheeses can work well. Instead of strawberry preserves, try raspberry or peach preserves for a different flavor. Make sure to let the cream cheese soften for easier mixing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fruity cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, particularly Ritz crackers, which complement its creamy texture. For a colorful platter, add fresh fruit like strawberries and grapes alongside the cheese ball. It pairs beautifully with Sparkling Strawberry Shortcake for a delightful dessert after your appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you plan to reheat it, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. However, this dish is best enjoyed cold, so consider serving it fresh from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruity Cheese Ball contains roughly 969 calories, with 27g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (54% of the Daily Value), calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 803mg per serving (35% 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 make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add the strawberry preserves just before serving to keep the texture fresh.
What type of nuts should I use?
You can use any cooked nuts you prefer, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds. For a nut-free version, consider adding seeds like sunflower seeds or even omitting nuts altogether.
How can I adjust the flavor of the cheese ball?
You can customize the flavor by mixing in spices like garlic powder, paprika, or even a splash of hot sauce for heat. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a tangy twist.
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).