Blog – Page 62 – Family Feast

Like a well-tuned playlist at a party, one simple cheese ball can set the whole mood and get people talking. You’ll find 14 easy, festive recipes here that cover creamy classics, savory bites, and sweet holiday twists, with quick steps for mixing, shaping, and coating each ball. Try a basic herbed cream cheese to start, then move to bacon-jalapeño or cranberry-pistachio for contrast, and use the tips provided to plate them so guests reach for more. Classic Herbed Cream Cheese Ball A creamy, herb-packed crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it’s irresistible. Ingredients: 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese 2 tbsp sour cream 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 clove garlic, minced 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried dill) 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp black pepper 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for coating) Additional chopped fresh herbs for rolling/decoration Crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks for serving How to Make: Soften the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes so it mixes easily. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sour cream until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic until combined. Fold in the chopped chives, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper, mixing evenly. Place the mixture on a large piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a tight ball. Chill the wrapped cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up. If using nuts, pulse them coarsely in a food processor or chop by hand; spread on a plate. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the chopped nuts or additional fresh herbs to coat. Transfer to a serving plate and surround with crackers, baguette slices, or veggies. Let sit at room temperature 10 minutes before serving for the best spreadable texture. Dig in and watch this herbed cream cheese ball disappear fast! Bacon Jalapeño Cheddar Ball A zesty, cheesy crowd-pleaser with smoky bacon and a jalapeño kick — perfect for parties or snack time. Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese 3–4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (about 1/2 cup) 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (keep seeds for more heat) 2 green onions, thinly sliced 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional) Salt and black pepper to taste 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (for coating) or crushed crackers Fresh chives or extra bacon for garnish (optional) How to Make: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Stir in the shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon (reserve a tablespoon for garnish), chopped jalapeño, and sliced green onions. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika if using, and a pinch of salt and pepper; mix until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning or jalapeño heat as needed. Scoop the mixture onto plastic wrap and form into a compact ball, twisting the wrap to tighten. Chill the wrapped ball in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up. Spread the chopped nuts or crushed crackers on a plate and roll the chilled cheese ball until evenly coated. Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with reserved bacon and chopped chives if desired. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies and watch it disappear! Enjoy the tangy, smoky, spicy goodness — this one’s guaranteed to be the hit of the spread. Cranberry Pistachio Holiday Ball Bright, festive cranberry-pistachio cheese ball that’s crunchy, creamy, and perfect for holiday nibbling. Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened 4 oz goat cheese (or softened cream cheese for milder flavor) 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped (reserve 2 tbsp for garnish) 1 cup roasted, unsalted pistachios, roughly chopped (reserve 2 tbsp for garnish) 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup 1/2 tsp lemon zest 1/4 tsp ground black pepper 1/4 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste) 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional, for a touch of color) Crackers, baguette slices, or fresh veggies for serving How to Make: Place the softened cream cheese and goat cheese in a medium mixing bowl. Add honey, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Beat with a hand mixer or stir vigorously until smooth and well combined. Fold in chopped dried cranberries and most of the chopped pistachios, saving a little of each for the coating. Transfer the mixture to a sheet of plastic wrap. Use the plastic wrap to shape the mixture into a compact ball and twist the wrap to tighten. Chill the wrapped ball in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up. Unwrap and roll the chilled cheese ball in the reserved pistachios and cranberries (and chopped herbs, if using), pressing gently so they adhere. Place on a serving plate and surround with crackers, bread slices, or veggies. Let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving so it’s creamy and easy to spread. Enjoy the festive flavors — creamy, tangy, and delightfully crunchy! Smoky Gouda and Sun-Dried Tomato Ball Smoky Gouda and Sun-Dried Tomato Ball — a creamy, smoky party-ready cheese ball studded with sweet sun-dried tomatoes. Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened 6 oz (170 g) smoked Gouda, finely grated 1/4 cup (60 g) mayonnaise 2 tbsp sour cream 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (oil-packed, drained) 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish) 1 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/4 tsp onion powder 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste) 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts or pecans (for coating) Optional: crisp crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies for serving How to Make: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Stir in the mayonnaise and sour cream until fully combined. Add the grated smoked Gouda, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chopped chives, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly distributed. Scrape the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Use the plastic to shape it into a tight ball, smoothing the surface. Wrap well and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to firm up. Before serving, place the chopped toasted nuts on a small plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the nuts, pressing gently so they adhere evenly. Sprinkle extra chopped chives on top for color. Transfer to a serving platter and surround with crackers, baguette slices, or veggies. Dig in and enjoy—this smoky, tangy cheese ball disappears fast at any gathering! Maple Pecan Brown Sugar Ball Warm, nutty, and just sweet enough — this Maple Pecan Brown Sugar Ball is a crowd-pleasing, buttery cheese ball with a crunchy pecan coating. Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened 4 oz (115 g) goat cheese or neufchâtel (optional for tang), softened 1/3 cup packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon Pinch of salt 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans (divided; about 1 cup for coating, 1/2 cup for mixing) Crackers, sliced baguette, or apple slices for serving How to Make: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese (and goat cheese, if using) until smooth and creamy. Stir in the brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until evenly combined. Fold in about 1/2 cup of the finely chopped pecans so you have little crunchy bits throughout. Scoop the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and shape it into a tight ball; wrap and chill for at least 1 hour to firm up. Spread the remaining 1 cup of chopped pecans on a plate. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the pecans, pressing gently so they adhere. Transfer the coated ball to a serving platter and let sit 10–15 minutes at room temperature before serving for best flavor. Serve with crackers, baguette slices, or apple slices and watch it disappear! Enjoy that sweet maple crunch — perfect for parties or a cozy snack. Everything Bagel Savory Cheese Ball Everything Bagel Savory Cheese Ball — a party-ready, flavor-packed dip that tastes like your favorite breakfast bagel turned into a creamy, dippable ball. Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened 4 oz goat cheese or softened Boursin (optional for tang), softened 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste) 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish) 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill (optional) 3 tablespoons Everything Bagel seasoning, plus more for rolling Assorted dippers: crackers, sliced baguette, bagel chips, raw veggies How to Make: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and goat cheese (if using) until smooth and creamy. Stir in shredded cheddar, sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Fold in the chopped chives and dill, reserving a little chive for garnish. Mix in 3 tablespoons of Everything Bagel seasoning, reserving a tablespoon for rolling. Use plastic wrap to shape the mixture into a tight ball, twisting the wrap to form a smooth surface. Chill the wrapped cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up. Unwrap the chilled ball and roll it in the reserved Everything Bagel seasoning until evenly coated; garnish with reserved chives. Transfer to a serving plate and surround with crackers, bagel chips, or veggies for dipping. Enjoy scooping up bagel-flavored goodness — perfect for brunch, game day, or any snack attack! Spicy Sriracha Lime Cream Cheese Ball Spicy Sriracha Lime Cream Cheese Ball — a zippy, creamy crowd-pleaser with a citrus kick. Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened 4 oz (115 g) goat cheese or softened low-fat cream cheese (optional for tang) 2–3 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste) 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice 1 tsp lime zest 1–2 tsp honey or agave (optional, to balance heat) 1 small garlic clove, minced 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for rolling) 2 tbsp finely chopped green onions 1/4 tsp kosher salt (or to taste) Freshly ground black pepper, a pinch 1/3 cup crushed tortilla chips or finely chopped toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) for coating Extra cilantro leaves or thin lime slices for garnish Crackers, tortilla chips, sliced veggies, or toasted baguette for serving How to Make: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese (and goat cheese, if using) until smooth and creamy. Stir in Sriracha, lime juice, lime zest, honey (if using), minced garlic, cilantro, green onions, salt, and pepper until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasonings — add more Sriracha for heat, more lime for brightness, or a touch more honey to tame spice. Scoop the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and shape into a tight ball using the wrap to help form it smooth. Chill the wrapped cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (longer for firmer texture). While chilling, place crushed tortilla chips or chopped pepitas on a plate. Unwrap the chilled ball and roll it in the coating until evenly covered, pressing gently so it adheres. Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with extra cilantro leaves and thin lime slices, and surround with crackers, chips, or veggies. Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature 10–15 minutes before serving for the best creamy texture. Serve it up and watch it disappear — spicy, tangy, and utterly addictive! Goat Cheese With Honey and Walnuts Ball Creamy goat cheese rolled in crunchy walnuts and drizzled with honey — simple, elegant, and perfect for entertaining. Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) fresh goat cheese (log or crumbled) 2–3 tbsp plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese (optional, for softer texture) 1–2 tbsp honey, plus extra for serving 1 tsp lemon zest (optional) 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste) 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts (plus extra halves for garnish) 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh herbs (optional: thyme, chives, or parsley) Crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette for serving How to Make: If using, stir the Greek yogurt or cream cheese into the goat cheese in a bowl until smooth and spreadable. Add 1–2 tablespoons honey, lemon zest, and black pepper; mix until evenly combined and taste for sweetness and seasoning. Line a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment on the counter. Spoon the cheese mixture onto it and shape into a compact ball using the wrap to help form a smooth surface. Place the chopped walnuts (and chopped herbs if using) on a plate and roll the cheese ball gently in them until evenly coated. Transfer the ball to a serving plate, pressing a few walnut halves on top for decoration if you like. Drizzle a little extra honey over the cheese ball just before serving. Serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh bread and watch it disappear. Enjoy this sweet-and-savory spread that’s as gorgeous as it’s delicious! Blue Cheese and Pear Crostini Ball Bright, tangy, and perfectly party-ready — Blue Cheese and Pear Crostini Ball. Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened 4 oz (115 g) blue cheese, crumbled 1 ripe pear, peeled and finely chopped 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts 2 tbsp honey, plus extra for drizzling 1 tsp lemon juice 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish) Crackers or small crostini, for serving Optional: mixed seeds (pumpkin, sunflower) or extra crushed walnuts for coating How to Make: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Fold in the crumbled blue cheese until evenly mixed but still a bit chunky. Stir in the chopped pear, toasted walnuts, honey, lemon juice, black pepper, and chopped chives until combined. Transfer the mixture to a piece of plastic wrap and shape into a tight ball, twisting the wrap to compress. Refrigerate the wrapped ball for at least 1 hour to firm up. Unwrap and roll the cheese ball in extra chopped walnuts, mixed seeds, or more chives to coat the outside. Place the ball on a serving plate, drizzle a little extra honey over the top, and garnish with a few chive snips. Arrange crackers or crostini around the ball and serve. Enjoy scooping up sweet pear and bold blue cheese — your guests will devour it! Mediterranean Olive, Feta, and Oregano Ball A bright, savory cheese ball that brings Mediterranean flavors to your party platter. Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled 1/2 cup finely chopped mixed olives (kalamata and green), pitted 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped) 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish) 1/3 cup chopped roasted red peppers (optional, for color) 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts (for coating) Crackers, pita chips, or sliced baguette, for serving How to Make: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta; beat with a fork or spoon until smooth and well blended. Stir in the chopped olives, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, parsley, and roasted red peppers (if using) until everything is evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning—add a pinch more salt or lemon juice if needed (remember feta is salty). Scoop the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and form into a tight ball; wrap fully and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up. While chilling, toast the pine nuts or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant; let cool and chop if large. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the toasted nuts and a little extra chopped parsley to coat the outside evenly. Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and a few olive halves or parsley leaves, and surround with crackers, pita chips, or baguette slices. Serve chilled or at room temperature and watch it disappear! Enjoy the zesty Mediterranean flavors—perfect for parties and snacking! Truffle Mushroom and Parmesan Ball Truffle Mushroom and Parmesan Ball — earthy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible. Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened 1 cup shredded Parmesan (preferably freshly grated) 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (cremini or button) 1–2 tsp truffle oil (to taste) 2 tbsp unsalted butter 1 small shallot, finely minced 1 garlic clove, minced 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried) 1/4 tsp salt, plus more to taste 1/4 tsp black pepper 2–3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley 1/2 cup toasted breadcrumbs or finely chopped toasted walnuts (for coating) Crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette, for serving How to Make: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add shallot and garlic; sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add chopped mushrooms and thyme; cook 5–7 minutes until mushrooms are softened and any liquid has evaporated. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Let cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the shredded Parmesan until well combined. Fold the cooled mushroom mixture and chopped parsley into the cheese mixture. Add truffle oil a little at a time, tasting until you reach a pleasant, not overpowering, truffle flavor. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Scoop the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and shape into a firm ball, smoothing the surface. Wrap tightly and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to set. Place breadcrumbs or toasted walnuts on a plate. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it to coat the outside evenly. Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with a few thyme sprigs or a drizzle of extra truffle oil if desired, and serve with crackers or crostini. Enjoy scooping this lush truffle mushroom and Parmesan ball — rich, savory, and perfect for any gathering! Cranberry Orange Mascarpone Ball Bright, tangy, and crowd-pleasing — a festive cranberry-orange mascarpone cheese ball that’s as pretty as it’s tasty. Ingredients: 8 oz mascarpone cheese, room temperature 4 oz cream cheese, softened 1 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped (reserve 1/4 cup for coating) Zest of 1 large orange (about 1 tablespoon) 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional, for a slight bite) 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or finely chopped pecans (for inside, optional) 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans (or walnuts) for coating 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives (optional, for coating/garnish) Crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette, for serving How to Make: In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, vanilla, salt, and pepper until evenly combined. Fold in the chopped dried cranberries and chopped parsley or pecans if using. Place the mixture on a sheet of plastic wrap and shape it into a tight ball. Wrap well and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to firm up. Meanwhile, combine the chopped toasted pecans, reserved chopped cranberries, and chopped chives on a flat plate. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the nut-cranberry-chive mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks. Transfer to a serving plate and let sit 10 minutes at room temperature before serving so flavors mellow. Serve with crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette and watch it disappear. A festive, creamy centerpiece that’s perfect for holiday gatherings — enjoy every zesty bite! Pistachio and Pomegranate Festive Ball Pistachio and Pomegranate Festive Ball — a crunchy, jewel-studded cheese ball perfect for holiday parties. Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened 4 oz (115 g) goat cheese, softened (or more cream cheese if preferred) 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar (or your favorite semi-hard cheese) 1/4 cup sour cream 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste) 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions or chives 1/2 cup toasted shelled pistachios, finely chopped (reserve 2 tablespoons for garnish) 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (plus extra for garnish) Fresh herbs (optional: parsley or mint) for garnish How to Make: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and goat cheese until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar, sour cream, honey, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined. Fold in the chopped green onions (or chives) and most of the pomegranate seeds, saving a few for garnish. Line a bowl with plastic wrap. Spoon the cheese mixture into the bowl and shape it into a tight ball using the wrap; twist the plastic to set the shape. Chill the wrapped cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours, or until firm. Spread the chopped pistachios on a plate. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the pistachios until coated evenly; press gently so nuts stick. Transfer the coated cheese ball to a serving platter. Scatter remaining pomegranate seeds and reserved pistachios over the top and tuck a few fresh herb leaves around for color. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or crisp veggies and watch it disappear. Enjoy this festive, crunchy, tangy cheese ball — it’s party-ready and utterly irresistible! Roasted Red Pepper and Asiago Ball Roasted Red Pepper and Asiago Ball — bright, cheesy, and perfect for parties. Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened 1 cup shredded Asiago cheese (about 4 oz), plus extra for coating if desired 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped and drained 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) Salt and black pepper to taste 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1/3 cup if using dried) 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts or chopped toasted walnuts (for coating) Crackers, baguette slices, or vegetables for serving How to Make: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the shredded Asiago, chopped roasted red peppers, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Line a small bowl or plate with plastic wrap, spoon the mixture into the center, and use the wrap to shape it into a compact ball. Chill for at least 1 hour to firm up. On a plate, mix the chopped parsley with the toasted nuts (or Asiago if using for coating). Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the parsley-nut mixture until evenly coated. Transfer to a serving platter and surround with crackers, bread, and veggies. Let it sit at room temperature 10–15 minutes before serving for the best spreadable texture. Dig in and enjoy — this tangy, smoky Asiago and roasted red pepper ball is a crowd-pleaser every time! Conclusion You’ve got a great group of cheese balls to try, so pick a few that match your crowd and occasion. Prep ingredients, chill the mixture, and shape each ball with clean hands or a scoop. Roll in nuts, herbs, or dried fruit for contrast. Chill again so flavors settle. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or veggies. Rotate flavors across your platter to please different tastes and keep presentation bright and simple.