Treasures Cheese Ball
A creamy, sweet and nutty cheese ball made with cream cheese, dates, and almonds, perfect as an elegant appetizer or party treat for cheese lovers and dessert enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the cream cheese and dates until well combined.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Roll the cheese ball in slivered almonds to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. If you don't have slivered almonds, chopped walnuts or pecans can be a great substitute. You can also add herbs like chives or dill for a savory twist. Consider adding dried cranberries or apricots for a touch of sweetness, which would pair beautifully with Montine'S Fruitcake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh veggies, or apple slices for a delightful snack. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a fruit-forward cocktail. You could also include it on a cheese board alongside the Amaretto Cheese Plate for a festive spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain its shape, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container. There's no need to reheat this dish; serve it cold or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Treasures Cheese Ball contains roughly 575 calories, with 13g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 14g 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 this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just roll it in the slivered almonds before serving to ensure a fresh and crunchy coating.
What can I use instead of dates?
If you don't have dates, dried figs or raisins can work as a substitute. They will provide a similar sweetness, but you may want to adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this cheese ball is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for gatherings. For additional vegetarian recipes, consider serving it alongside veggie platters or other plant-based snacks.
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).