Ginger Cream Cheese Ball
A sweet and spicy ginger cream cheese ball coated in coconut, perfect for parties or holiday gatherings, with a rich flavor combo of dates, ginger, nuts, and cream cheese.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop dates, candied ginger bits, and nuts in a food processor or mince by hand.
- Add cream cheese; blend until well combined.
- Chill the mixture for 2 hours.
- Shape into a large ball or two small balls.
- Cover the shaped cheese ball with flaked coconut.
- Serve with gingersnaps.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture. If you don't have pecans or walnuts, almonds or hazelnuts are excellent substitutes. If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, use reduced-fat cream cheese. This recipe is a delightful way to use dates, which add natural sweetness and pair beautifully with vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This ginger cream cheese ball is perfect as an appetizer for parties or holiday gatherings. Serve it alongside gingersnaps for a delightful contrast of flavors. It also pairs nicely with fresh fruit or crackers, making it a versatile choice for any cheese platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If the cheese ball is tightly wrapped, it can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, allow it to come to room temperature before serving to restore its creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ginger Cream Cheese Ball contains roughly 185 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (10% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to two days ahead of time. Just shape it and cover it with coconut before refrigerating. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it convenient for party planning.
What can I serve with the ginger cream cheese ball?
In addition to gingersnaps, consider serving it with sliced apples, pears, or assorted crackers. For a more substantial snack, you could pair it with a light salad, such as a Fruit Walnut Salad, to balance the creaminess.
Can I use fresh ginger instead of candied ginger?
While fresh ginger would provide a spicier flavor, it may not give the same sweetness and texture. If you prefer fresh ginger, use a small amount and adjust the sweetness of the dates accordingly to maintain the balance in the recipe.
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).