Sausage-Apple Balls
Sausage-Apple Balls combine savory sausage with sweet apples, raisins, and walnuts for a flavorful appetizer or snack. The apple pie spice adds a warm, aromatic touch. Perfect for gatherings or family snacks, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and delightfully satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients, mixing well.
- Shape into 1-inch balls.
- Place on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dates. You can use any type of sausage; however, a mild Italian sausage works particularly well. If you're looking for a lighter version, try using turkey sausage. Mixing the ingredients thoroughly ensures that every ball is evenly flavored. If you prefer a bit more crunch, toast the chopped walnuts before adding them to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These sausage-apple balls make a fantastic appetizer for parties or game day. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce, like honey mustard or apple chutney, for added flavor. They also work well as a hearty breakfast option, served alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a side of delicious soup or a simple salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sausage-apple balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quick option, but the oven method maintains their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage-Apple Balls contains roughly 488 calories, with 8g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 sausage-apple balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the balls in advance, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze the sausage-apple balls?
Yes, these balls freeze well! After shaping, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of biscuit mix?
If you don't have biscuit mix, you can make your own by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This will give you a similar texture and flavor in your sausage-apple balls.
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).