Kistie'S Cheese Ball
A rich and cheesy appetizer featuring cream cheese, sharp cheddar, chopped dates, and pecans, perfect for entertaining or a savory snack with a sweet twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the grated Cheddar cheese, prepared mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
- Stir in the chopped dates and chopped pecans until evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball or desired shape and refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or use other nuts like walnuts if pecans are unavailable. For added flavor, consider mixing in some fresh herbs, such as chives or parsley, which can enhance the overall taste of the cheese ball.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Kistie'S Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or sliced baguette for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Cocktail Fruit Cake for a balanced spread. For a festive touch, garnish with additional chopped pecans or fresh herbs before serving. This dish also makes an excellent addition to any party platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to prepare it in advance, you can shape the cheese ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. For best results, allow it to chill for at least an hour before serving, but avoid freezing as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kistie'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 554 calories, with 30g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (81% of the Daily Value), calcium (73% of the Daily Value), and protein (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1168mg per serving (51% 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 Kistie'S Cheese Ball up to a day in advance. Shape it into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it some time to soften slightly at room temperature before serving to enhance its creaminess.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute softened cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but a similar taste. For a dairy-free version, consider using cashew cream or a vegan cream cheese alternative, keeping in mind that it may change the flavor profile slightly.
How long does this cheese ball last?
Kistie'S Cheese Ball can last in the refrigerator for about one week when stored properly in an airtight container. If you're unsure about its freshness, check for any off smells or changes in texture before consuming.
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).