Mother'S Cheese Apple
A fun and savory cheese apple mold with sharp cheddar and coon cheese, flavored with Worcestershire, Tabasco, onion, and finished with paprika and a green leaf for presentation, perfect for parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let cheeses sit out until soft enough to handle.
- Grate the cheeses and mix together with Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, and onion flavoring or grated onion.
- Mold the mixture into the shape of an apple.
- Roll the molded cheese into paprika to coat.
- Add a clean green leaf at the top to resemble an apple stem.
- Serve sliced with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften more than the other cheeses before mixing. If Coon cheese isn't available, a mild cheddar can be used as a substitute. Adjust the amount of Tabasco sauce according to your heat preference, and consider adding finely chopped herbs for extra flavor. This dish can be prepared a day in advance for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese apple pairs beautifully with a variety of crackers, fresh vegetables, or sliced fruits. For a festive touch, serve it on a platter with nuts and dried fruits. It also makes a great appetizer for gatherings or parties, complementing dishes like Caribbean Cream Pie for a balanced spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing the cheese mixture, as it may become crumbly when thawed. If serving after refrigerating, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing for easier handling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother'S Cheese Apple contains roughly 642 calories, with 32g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (75% of the Daily Value), calcium (66% of the Daily Value), and protein (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1723mg per serving (75% 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 use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheese varieties. A combination of sharp and mild cheeses will work well, but make sure to maintain the creamy texture with cream cheese. Try adding a blue cheese for a unique flavor profile, or substitute one of the cheeses with a smoked version for added depth.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To increase the spiciness, add more Tabasco sauce or incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or other hot peppers into the cheese mixture. You can also consider using pepper jack cheese as part of the blend for an extra kick. Taste the mixture before molding to adjust the heat to your liking.
What should I serve with the cheese apple?
Serve the cheese apple with an assortment of crackers for a delightful crunch. Fresh vegetables like celery sticks or bell pepper strips also pair nicely. For a sweet contrast, include slices of apple or pear. This dish also complements savory options like cured meats and olives, enhancing your appetizer spread.
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).