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Homemade Cheese Ball photo

Cheese Ball

This Cheese Ball is a crowd-pleaser! Creamy, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s the perfect appetizer for any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 oz goat cheese (or 2 oz each goat cheese and blue cheese), at room temperature
  • 3 oz cream cheese at room temperature
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • ½ teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • cup chopped dates (see note)
  • 3 tablespoons finely chopped scallions (white and green parts, from 2 to 3 scallions)
  • 1 cup salt-and-butter roasted pecans chopped (see recipe below) or store-bought salted pecans
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
  • 2 cups pecan halves
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Serving platter

Method
 

  1. Begin by taking the goat cheese, cream cheese, and unsalted butter out of the refrigerator. Allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, which will make mixing easier.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, softened butter, hot sauce, and salt. Use a spatula to mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  3. Fold in the chopped dates and the finely chopped scallions into the cheese mixture. Ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout.
  4. Using plastic wrap, transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of wrap and shape it into a ball. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
  5. While the Cheese Ball is chilling, prepare the coating. In a small bowl, mix the chopped roasted pecans, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt.
  6. Once the Cheese Ball is firm, unwrap it from the plastic wrap. Roll it in the pecan mixture until well-coated on all sides.
  7. For a beautiful presentation, arrange the pecan halves around the Cheese Ball on a serving platter. Drizzle with melted butter if desired for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Room temperature ingredients are key for achieving a smooth and creamy texture.
  • Chilling the Cheese Ball helps it hold its shape and enhances the flavors.
  • Using a combination of cheeses provides a richer taste that pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory elements.
  • Rolling the Cheese Ball in the nut mixture just before serving ensures maximum crunch and freshness.