The Sun Ball
A savory cheese ball infused with olives, mustard, and garlic, coated with sunflower seeds. Perfect for parties, cheese platters, or as a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese with mustard, garlic powder, and wine until smooth.
- Mix in chopped black olives and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape. Wrap in wax paper.
- Chill the cheese ball until firm.
- Roll the chilled ball in sunflower seeds to coat.
- Garnish with additional whole pitted ripe olives before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute goat cheese for a tangy twist or use Greek yogurt for a lighter version. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for mild Cheddar cheese or even a blend of cheeses. To add extra flavor, consider incorporating herbs like dill or chives into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball is perfect for parties and pairs beautifully with crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or toasted baguette slices. Garnish with additional whole pitted ripe olives for an attractive presentation. For more delicious party ideas, check out Baked Tomatoes With Topping or Hello Dollies Or Layer Bars to complement your spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Sun Ball contains roughly 127 calories, with 3g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
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, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in wax paper and refrigerate until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld and makes your party prep easier.
What can I substitute for black olives?
If you don't like black olives, green olives or sun-dried tomatoes can be great alternatives. They will give the cheese ball a different flavor profile while still adding a nice touch.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat or animal by-products other than dairy. However, always check the cheese labels to ensure they meet your 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).