Walnut Cheese Ball
A creamy walnut cheese ball with tangy sherry and horseradish, coated in chopped walnuts; perfect as an appetizer for gatherings or cheese platter enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, soften cream cheese and blend in sherry.
- Add butter, cheese spread, and horseradish; mix well.
- Cover and chill thoroughly for about 4 hours.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and roll in chopped walnuts.
- Refrigerate until serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using flavored cream cheese, such as onion or garlic. If you're out of sherry, white wine or apple cider vinegar can work as substitutes. For a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. Make sure to finely chop the walnuts for an even coating, which will help the cheese ball hold its shape better.
Serving Suggestions
This Walnut Cheese Ball is perfect for parties and pairs beautifully with crackers, fresh vegetables, or sliced baguette. For a delightful appetizer spread, serve it alongside Uncle Charly's Cornbread and a selection of dips. It can also be garnished with fresh herbs or served on a platter with fruits for a colorful presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you need to prepare it in advance, you can make the cheese ball and roll it in walnuts a day ahead of time. Just keep it covered and refrigerated, and it will firm up nicely. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnut Cheese Ball contains roughly 297 calories, with 3g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 31g 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 this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just make sure to cover it well and keep it refrigerated. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, simply roll it in the chopped walnuts and present it on a serving platter.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
If you're looking for an alternative to walnuts, pecans or almonds can be great substitutes. Both will provide a nice crunch and flavor. For nut-free options, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, which will still add texture without the allergens.
How long should I chill the cheese ball?
Chilling the cheese ball for at least 4 hours is recommended to help it firm up and allow the flavors to develop. If you're short on time, a minimum of 2 hours will still provide a good result, but for the best texture and taste, longer is better.
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).