Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, cheesy goodness! Whether you’re looking for a snack to serve at your next gathering or a show-stopping appetizer for your holiday party, we’ve got you covered with these 20 deliciously creamy cheese ball recipes. From classic combinations like cheddar and pecans to more unique pairings like buffalo blue cheese and celery sticks, there’s something on this list for everyone.
From simple gatherings to special occasions, these cheesy bites are sure to be a hit. So grab your cream cheese, shredded cheese, and favorite mix-ins (like herbs, spices, or nuts), and get ready to create some seriously delicious cheesy goodness!
Stay tuned for our top 20 creamy cheese ball recipes that will satisfy any snacking craving.
Classic Cheddar Cheese Ball with Pecans
Classic Cheddar Cheese Ball with Pecans: A rich and creamy cheese ball infused with the crunch of pecans, perfect for snacking or serving at parties.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
3. Roll the mixture into a ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the top of the cheese ball.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball
Elevate your party game with this addictive cheese ball infused with the spicy kick of jalapeños and creaminess of cream cheese. Perfect for snacking, entertaining, or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeños (about 2 peppers)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, cilantro, jalapeños, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Roll the mixture into a ball shape.
4. Coat the outside of the cheese ball with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
5. Place the cheese ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crackers are lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Herb Cheese Ball with Fresh Rosemary
Elevate your snack game with this savory and aromatic cheese ball infused with the flavors of garlic, herbs, and fresh rosemary. Perfect for parties or movie nights!
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of cheddar cheese, softened
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cheddar cheese, garlic, rosemary, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cream cheese until well combined.
4. Shape the mixture into a ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball with Chives
Elevate your snack game with this addictive cheese ball infused with the savory flavors of bacon and ranch dressing, topped with a sprinkle of chives.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon
– 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
3. Add the chopped bacon, ranch seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
4. Roll the mixture into a ball shape, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the cheese ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle the top with chopped chives.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cheese Ball
A delicious and flavorful twist on the classic cheese ball, this recipe combines the savory goodness of sun-dried tomatoes with the bright, herbaceous taste of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Wrap the mixture in plastic wrap and shape into a ball.
4. Place the ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: 1 cheese ball, serves 8-10 as an appetizer or snack
Everything Bagel Cheese Ball with Sesame Seeds
This mouthwatering cheese ball is a twist on the classic, infused with the flavors of everything bagels and topped with crunchy sesame seeds. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, scallions, everything bagel seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a lightly floured surface and shape into a ball.
4. Place the cheese ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the top of the cheese ball.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sesame seeds are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cranberry Walnut Cheese Ball with Orange Zest
This sweet and tangy cheese ball combines the flavors of cranberries, walnuts, and orange zest for a perfect holiday party appetizer or snack. With its crunchy texture and burst of citrus flavor, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons orange zest
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, cranberries, walnuts, and orange zest until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into a ball shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Blue Cheese Ball with Celery Sticks
Elevate your snack game with this tangy and creamy blue cheese ball, infused with the spicy kick of buffalo sauce. Serve it with crunchy celery sticks for a satisfying accompaniment.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon buffalo wing sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Celery sticks for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, blue cheese, buffalo wing sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Mix until smooth and creamy, adding salt and pepper as needed.
4. Wrap the mixture in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
5. Form into a ball shape and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned on the outside.
6. Serve with celery sticks for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Cheese Ball
Elevate your party game with this rich and savory cheese ball, featuring the deep flavors of smoked Gouda and caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz Smoked Gouda, crumbled
– 1/2 cup Caramelized Onions (see note)
– 1/4 cup Cream Cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
– 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
– Salt and Pepper to taste
– Fresh Thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine crumbled Smoked Gouda, Caramelized Onions, Cream Cheese, Worcestershire Sauce, Garlic Powder, Salt, and Pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a lightly floured surface and shape into a ball.
4. Place the cheese ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook 1 large onion over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dark golden brown and sweet.
Pimento Cheese Ball with Cracked Black Pepper
Elevate your snack game with this creamy pimento cheese ball infused with a subtle kick of cracked black pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green peppers (pimentos)
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, pimentos, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a lightly floured surface and shape into a ball.
4. Roll the ball in additional cracked black pepper to coat evenly.
5. Place the ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until slightly firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Cheese Ball with Cotija
Mexican Street Corn Cheese Ball with Cotija Recipe
This cheesy, crunchy, and utterly addictive snack is a twist on traditional Mexican street corn, perfect for game days, parties, or just because. With the tangy kick of Cotija cheese, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Cotija cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, Cotija cheese, cilantro, lime juice, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in corn kernels and mix well.
4. Roll the mixture into a ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto and Parmesan Cheese Ball with Pine Nuts
This Italian-inspired cheese ball combines the creamy richness of parmesan, the vibrant flavor of pesto, and the crunch of toasted pine nuts. Perfect for parties or gatherings, this easy-to-make appetizer is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp store-bought or homemade pesto
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and pesto until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped parsley and toasted pine nuts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Shape mixture into a ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Brie and Fig Cheese Ball with Honey Drizzle
Elevate your entertaining game with this easy-to-make, yet impressive, cheese ball. The combination of creamy Brie, sweet figs, and a drizzle of honey is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) Brie cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup (30g) fig jam
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup (60g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup (15g) honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the Brie cheese, fig jam, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Add the cream cheese and mix until smooth.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and shape into a ball or log.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned.
7. Drizzle with honey and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Cheese Ball with Sour Cream
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious Loaded Baked Potato Cheese Ball with Sour Cream. This addictive treat is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Roll the mixture into a ball, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the cheese ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. If using bacon, crumble it over the top of the cheese ball.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dippers, such as crackers or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Chip Dessert Cheese Ball with Graham Crackers
Transform your party or gathering into a sweet treat extravaganza with this scrumptious cheese ball! This bite-sized delight combines the richness of cream cheese with the crunch of graham crackers and the indulgence of chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
3. Stir in the crushed graham crackers and chocolate chips.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, shape into a ball and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None needed! This dessert cheese ball is ready to be devoured as is.
Greek Feta Cheese Ball with Kalamata Olives
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful Greek-inspired cheese ball, featuring crumbly feta and savory kalamata olives.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together feta cheese, cream cheese, and olive oil until well combined.
2. Stir in parsley and kalamata olives.
3. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Shape into a ball and serve chilled.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
– Total time: 40 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Greek Feta Cheese Ball with Kalamata Olives!
Taco Cheese Ball with Crushed Tortilla Chips
A delicious twist on the classic cheese ball, this recipe combines the flavors of tacos with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy and savory snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese and cheddar cheese until smooth.
3. Add crushed tortilla chips, taco seasoning, and paprika. Mix well.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Wrap the mixture in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Shape into a ball.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramel Apple Cheese Ball with Cinnamon
This sweet and savory cheese ball combines the flavors of caramel apples and cinnamon, perfect for a fall party or gathering. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this tasty treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Stir in caramel sauce, nuts, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Shape mixture into a ball and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional chopped nuts and a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This cheese ball is best served chilled.
Goat Cheese and Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Goat Cheese and Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory cheese ball recipe, featuring tangy goat cheese, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) goat cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
– 1/4 cup (15g) chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup (30g) dried cranberries
– 1 tsp (5g) salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine softened goat cheese, parsley, sugar, and olive oil. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped pecans and dried cranberries.
4. Transfer the mixture to a lightly floured surface and knead into a ball shape.
5. Place the cheese ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until slightly puffed.
Savory Italian Cheese Ball with Prosciutto
Elevate your party snacks game with this creamy, savory, and crunchy Italian-inspired cheese ball, infused with the rich flavor of prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 1/4 cup diced prosciutto
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and butter until smooth.
3. Fold in diced prosciutto until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Wrap the mixture in plastic wrap and shape into a ball.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown on the outside.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your party game with these 20 creamy cheese ball recipes, perfect for every occasion! From classic cheddar with pecans to spicy jalapeño popper-inspired flavors and sweet treats like chocolate chip dessert cheese balls, there’s something for everyone. Impress your guests with garlic herb and sun-dried tomato options or satisfy their cravings with loaded baked potato and taco-inspired flavors. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or a show-stopping centerpiece, these cheese ball recipes are sure to please.
