Holiday Cheese Roll
Festive and flavorful, these cheese rolls combine sharp Cheddar, cream cheese, spices, and crunchy pecans, making an elegant appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cream cheese, Cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and chopped pecans in a large mixing bowl.
- Blend until thoroughly mixed.
- Form the cheese mixture into two rolls, each about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
- Sprinkle paprika on a sheet of waxed paper or aluminum foil.
- Roll each cheese roll in paprika until completely covered.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and chill well in the refrigerator.
- Slice thinly to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If you want to adjust the heat level, start with 1/2 tsp. of cayenne pepper and taste before adding more. Pecans can be substituted with walnuts or almonds if desired. This cheese roll pairs beautifully with Rudolph'S Antlers for a festive platter.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the cheese rolls into thin rounds and serve them on a platter with an assortment of crackers and fresh vegetables. They make a great appetizer for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers. Consider pairing with a glass of wine for a festive touch or serve alongside Pudding Delite for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to one week. For best results, slice just before serving to maintain freshness. These cheese rolls do not freeze well due to the texture of the cream cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Cheese Roll contains roughly 946 calories, with 40g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (197% of the Daily Value), protein (81% of the Daily Value), and calcium (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1027mg per serving (45% 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 roll ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese rolls a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste when served.
What can I serve with the cheese roll?
The cheese roll pairs well with a variety of items like toasted baguette slices, fresh fruit, or a selection of cured meats. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad for a light meal option.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian as it does not contain meat. However, you may want to ensure that the Cheddar cheese is made without animal rennet for strict vegetarian diets.
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).