Kissing Ball
A festive and savory cheese ball coated with toasted sesame seeds, combining cream cheese, vegetables, and seasonings, perfect for holiday parties and appetizer trays.
Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened ⓘ
- 1/4 c. grated carrot ⓘ
- 1/4 c. finely chopped celery
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1 (2 oz.) jar diced pimientos, drained ⓘ
- 1 tsp. seasoned salt
- few dashes garlic powder ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. toasted sesame seed ⓘ
- pasteurized process cheese spread (chive and green onion flavor) ⓘ
- parsley sprigs ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine the cream cheese, grated carrot, chopped celery, chopped green pepper, drained diced pimientos, seasoned salt, and garlic powder until well blended. Refrigerate until firm, at least 2 hours.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and roll in toasted sesame seeds until completely coated.
- Place on a serving dish and decorate with cheese spread, mistletoe, and parsley sprigs.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding finely chopped herbs like dill or chives to the cheese mixture. If you want a spicier kick, incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper. For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream cheese and adjust the sesame seed amount to your taste. This recipe can also be made ahead of time, making it perfect for entertaining, especially during the holidays.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Kissing Ball alongside an assortment of crackers, vegetable sticks, or even slices of baguette for a delightful appetizer. Pair it with a fresh fruit platter or a salad for a balanced spread. This dish also pairs beautifully with Blue Cheese Bites, creating a diverse and flavorful appetizer selection.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Kissing Ball can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its shape and texture, avoid covering it tightly with plastic wrap. Simply take it out about 30 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly, making it easier to spread on crackers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kissing Ball contains roughly 3121 calories, with 91g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 281g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (182% of the Daily Value), iron (173% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (163% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2641mg per serving (115% 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 the Kissing Ball in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead and shape it into a ball right before serving. Just remember to refrigerate it until firm, which helps in maintaining its shape. This makes it an excellent choice for gatherings, allowing you to enjoy the event without last-minute preparations.
What can I substitute for sesame seeds?
If you don't have sesame seeds on hand, chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be a great alternative for added crunch. You could also use crushed crackers or pretzels to add a different texture and flavor to the outside of the Kissing Ball.
Is there a vegetarian option for the cheese spread?
Absolutely! Look for vegetarian cream cheese spreads that are flavored with chives and green onions. Many brands offer delicious plant-based alternatives that can be used in this recipe, ensuring that it remains suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
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).