What do you remember about the cheese balls your mom used to make? What were the big ones, covered in nuts, that were always the first thing to disappear? Are these little guys like the sophisticated, bite-sized cousins of that classic? I’m talking incredible flavor, ridiculously easy to make, and absolutely perfect for any occasion. If you love cream cheese dip, you’re going to be obsessed with this one.How do you make mini cheese balls?.
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What is a mini cheese ball?
Think of it as a deconstructed cheese platter, but in cute, poppable form!Mini Cheese Balls – What areIs essentially a blend of soft cheeses (Cream Cheese and goat cheese are my go-to! ), herbs, spices, and sometimes a little something extra for texture – all rolled into one small ball. Is it a good idea to eat bagel with chopped nuts, fresh herbs, or everything? Is it easier to make a party in your mouth than you think? I’ve been making these for years, and they’re always a hit.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start?How do I make mini cheese balls? is how customizable it is. You can really tailor it to your own tastes and preferences.
• Flavor Explosion:What is the best combination of creamy cheese, fresh herbs, and savory spices? What is the best way to serve goat cheese? The coating adds another layer of flavor and texture.
• EffortlessWhat are some of the easiest cheese balls to make? What are some of the best recipes to whip up in under 30 minutes?
• Budget Friendly Bites:What are some of the best ingredients to make a Cream Cheese sandwich? From your garden (if you have one)? They look and taste like a million bucks, but they won’t break the bank.
• Is Versatility the key toServe them as an appetizer, bring them to a potluck, or even pack them in your lunchbox for an cheesy snack. What are some great Side Dishes to serve with crackers, pretzels, veggies, or just on their own? I’ve even been known to crumble them over a salad for an extra burst of flavor. What are some of the best and most delicious desserts
What is the recipe for Jalapeno Popper Dip? Both are crowd-pleasers, but these aren’tMini Cheese Balls.I feel a bit more refined, if that makes sense.
How do I make mini cheese balls?
Quick Overview
Making these Mini Cheese Balls – What isHow do you mix cheeses with herbs and spices, chill it, roll it into balls, coat it with a little olive oil and serve. Is it okay to chill them in your favorite toppings? The chilling time is crucial because it allows the flavors to meld together and helps the cheese to melt. How do balls hold their shape?
Ingredients
For the Cheese Mixture: 12
• 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened to room temperature (This is crucial for a smooth texture!)
• 4 ounces goat cheese, softened (I love using the plain goat but you could also use a shredded cheese). What are some good flavored ones for extra kick?
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (Fresh herbs make all the difference in flavor. Dried chives will work in a pinch, but fresh is best.)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (Again, fresh is key!)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (Don’t use garlic salt unless you want your cheese balls to be super soft).
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (Adds a subtle sweetness that balances out the savory flavors).
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (Freshly ground is always better)
For the Coating:
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (I love the nutty flavor of peaches, but walnut are a good substitute for almonds).
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (More fresh herbs? Yes, please)
• 1/4 cup everything bagel seasoning (This adds a delicious salty crunch!)
• Paprika for dusting (adds a little color)
What is the step by
Step 1: Soften the Cheese
Make sure your cream cheese and goat cheese are completely softened to room temperature. How do you make it easier to mix and prevent lumps in your food?Mini Cheese Balls: How do youI usually take the cheese out of the fridge about an hour before I plan to start.
Step 2: Combine the Cheese and Spices
In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese and goat cheese. Set aside. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy spoon to beat the cheeses together until they are smooth and creamy. Add the chopped chives, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder and black pepper. Mix well. What are some good spices to add to a bowl? They’re essential for the flavor.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
Cover the cheese mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. How do you roll a mixture into balls? I often chill it for even longer, up to a couple of hours, if I have the time.
Step 4: Prepare the Coatings
While cheese is chilling, prepare your coatings. In separate shallow dishes, place the chopped pecans or walnuts, chopped parsley, and everything else. What is bagel season I like to spread them out evenly so that it’s easy to coat the cheese balls.
Step 5: Form the Cheese Balls
Remove the cheese mixture from the refrigerator. Use a small spoon or a melon baller to scoop out portions of the cheese mixture. Roll each portion between your palms to form a small ball, about 1 inch in diameter. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect spheres!
Step 6: Coat the Cheese Balls
Roll each cheese ball in your chosen coating, pressing gently to help the coating adhere. I like to do a mix of coatings for variety. Sometimes I even add a little paprika for color!
Step 7: Chill Again
Place the coated mini cheese balls on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the coatings to set. If you’re making these ahead of time, you can chill them for several hours or even overnight.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the mini cheese balls from the refrigerator and serve them with your favorite crackers, pretzels, or veggies. Watch them disappear!
What to Serve It With
These mini cheese balls are so versatile! Here are some of my favorite ways to serve them:
For Brunch: Arrange the cheese balls on a pretty platter with a selection of crackers, sliced baguette, and some fresh fruit like grapes or berries. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing mimosa.
As an Appetizer: Serve the cheese balls with a variety of crudités, such as carrot sticks, celery sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips. Add a bowl of olives and some pickles for a more complete spread. I like to offer a selection of crackers as well, such as multigrain crackers, water crackers, and cheese crackers.
For a Holiday Party: Place the cheese balls on a festive serving tray and garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Arrange them around a bowl of cranberry sauce or a small dish of spiced nuts for a holiday-themed presentation. You can’t go wrong!
For a Cozy Snack: Enjoy the cheese balls with your favorite glass of wine or a cup of tea. They’re also great with a bowl of soup or a side salad for a light and satisfying meal.
Growing up, my family always had them with wheat thins, it’s been a long tradition. I’ve carried that with me and it’s something my family now loves.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Mini Cheese Balls
Here are a few of my top tips for making the best mini cheese balls:
Don’t Overmix: When combining the cheese mixture, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a tough, dense cheese ball. Mix just until everything is evenly combined.
Get Creative with Coatings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different coatings. Some other ideas include chopped dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, or even crushed potato chips!
Make Ahead of Time: These cheese balls are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare them up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve them. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
Adjust the Spices: If you like a little more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic powder and onion powder.
Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, the better your cheese balls will taste. Use a good-quality cream cheese and goat cheese, and fresh, flavorful herbs.
Serving Size: To avoid having to make more, make plenty! These tend to go fast, so you can never have too many.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to store and reheat your mini cheese balls:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They’re best served cold, so no reheating is necessary.
Freezer Instructions: You can freeze the cheese balls for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Serving from Frozen: If you forget to thaw them ahead of time, you can let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften slightly before serving.
What to do with Leftovers: If you have any leftover cheese balls, you can crumble them over a salad, use them as a filling for stuffed mushrooms, or add them to a grilled cheese sandwich for an extra burst of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Seriously, you NEED to try this mini cheese balls recipe! They’re so easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just looking for a cheesy snack, these little guys are the perfect solution. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other appetizer recipes, like my Spinach Artichoke Dip or my Buffalo Chicken Dip. They’re all easy, delicious, and perfect for sharing!
Happy snacking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Leave a comment below and let me know what variations you tried! And don’t forget to rate this recipe if you loved it!
Mini Cheese Balls Recipe: 7 Reasons You Can't Resist Them!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4.5 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese slightly pressed
- 3 large eggs lightly beaten
- 6 tablespoons breadcrumb or almond meal for gluten-free option
- 1.5 teaspoons baking soda
- 6 cups peanut oil for frying
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, feta cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, and baking soda until a consistent dough forms.
- Scoop 1 tablespoon portions of the mixture and roll into uniform balls. Place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Heat the peanut oil in a large pot to 360°F. Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature.
- Fry cheese balls in small batches, ensuring they don't overcrowd, for 3-4 minutes until golden.
- Remove balls with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Enjoy the cheese balls warm, optionally with your favorite dipping sauce.
