Raisin Cheese Ball
A creamy, sweet cheese ball packed with raisins and coated with slivered almonds, perfect for entertaining or festive gatherings, offering rich flavors and a delightful texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the softened cream cheese, butter, sour cream, and sugar together until smooth.
- Dissolve the gelatin in 1/4 cup hot water and add to the cheese mixture.
- Add 1 1/2 cups raisins to the mixture and combine well.
- Refrigerate until the mixture is firm.
- Form the mixture into a ball and cover with slivered almonds before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure that the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dates for a different flavor. If you prefer a nut-free option, consider using crushed pretzels or seeds to coat the cheese ball instead of slivered almonds. For a sweet and savory twist, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This raisin cheese ball is perfect for parties and can be served with a variety of accompaniments. Pair it with whole grain crackers, apple slices, or celery sticks for a delightful contrast. It also complements festive gatherings alongside Mamma'S Tea Cakes as a sweet treat. For a more substantial spread, include a selection of cheeses and cured meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the cheese ball. When ready to serve again, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften slightly before serving to enhance the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Cheese Ball contains roughly 448 calories, with 5g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (17% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (11% 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 cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, this cheese ball can be prepared a day in advance. Just ensure that it is tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow it to sit out for a bit before serving to soften slightly, which makes it easier to spread.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Just be aware that this may change the flavor and texture slightly, so adjust other ingredients accordingly for balance.
How can I customize the flavor of the cheese ball?
You can add herbs like chives or dill for a savory twist, or incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor. Additionally, mixing in some crushed nuts or seeds can add texture and enhance the overall taste of the cheese ball.
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).