How to Make a Classic Cheese Ball

A cheese ball is the perfect party appetizer and this recipe is for making a Classic Cheese Ball with just a few simple ingredients. Use this tutorial as a jumping off point with helpful tips for customizing this easy appetizer with your own flavors!

Homemade Cheese Ball

Of all the classic holiday appetizers at a party, a cheese ball is my absolute favorite for a few reasons:

• Easy to make
• Can be made ahead
• Endless flavor possibilities
• Make it sweet or savory

In this post, I’ll show you the recipe for a homemade cheeseball that is delicious on it’s own but also can be customized to fit your party theme.

Experiment with flavors that you and your guests like to make the best cheese ball ever!

Best thing, it can be made ahead of time.

There are so many variations for this easy cheese ball recipe, it will make your head spin. Or your stomach rumble…

My favorite cheese balls are my Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball, Honey Mustard Cheese Ball, Dried Beef Version, and my pumpkin cheese ball.

Serve it with your favorite crackers, vegetables, and fruit these easy recipes are perfect for whatever ingredients are hiding in your fridge.

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What is a Cheese Ball Made of?

Cream cheese – Use regular, low fat, or fat free cream cheese. Bring it to room temperature for easier mixing.

Shredded Cheese – Use your favorite or start with a neutral flavor like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

Sour Cream – You can substitute mayonnaise or yogurt if needed.

Seasonings – A great spice mix is an easy way to add flavor. Ranch seasoning is a classic flavor.

Toppings – Use things like nuts or fresh herbs to add texture and make the outside look pretty.

For more insider tips & tricks, and a candid behind the scenes look follow me on social media! Check use out on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter (yes, people still use Twitter, LOL!)

How to Make a Cheese Ball

First: Soften the cream cheese and bring other ingredients close to room temperature.

Second: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and other ingredients, minus the toppings, until completely combined using a hand mixer.

Third: Form cream cheese mixture into a ball shape, wrap in a large piece of plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes or until ready to serve.

Fourth: Remove it from the plastic wrap and roll in toppings. Serve on a plate with crackers or veggies.

For the full recipe and detailed instructions, please refer to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

What Cheese is Best for Cheese Balls?

• Mozzarella
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• Swiss
• Blue cheese
• Parmesan
• Gorgonzola
• Gouda
• Monterey Jack
• Gruyere
• Pepper Jack
• Goat Cheese

The coating is the presentation or outfit that your ball is wearing. Most balls are rolled in nuts, herbs, or a combo of the two, but don’t forget the sweet cheese balls. There are so many fun candies that you can use too!

Topping Options

• Toasted nuts (chopped pecans, almonds, walnuts, cashews, macadamia)
• Toasted seeds (poppy, chia, sesame, sunflower)
• BACON!!! (Bacon Bits are ok)
• Fresh parsley and other herbs (chives, green onions, cilantro, dill, thyme, rosemary)
• Misc items like pickled mustard seeds, dried beef, or crushed cereal.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Without the coatings and just the basic ingredients, a cheese ball will last two weeks, in an airtight container stored in the fridge at less than 40F.

Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap or waxed paper for best results.

Can you freeze it?

If tightly wrapped in plastic wrap, you can freeze it for up to 1 month.

What kind of crackers go best with it?

I prefer buttery Ritz crackers or shredded wheat crackers with mine. Even seed crackers are great! I love the contrast of textures they provide to the creamy texture of the soft cheese.

You can also use tortilla chips and baguette slices. Be sure they are sturdy!

Tapas Tips & Tricks

• Bring the cream cheese to room temperature for better mixing
• Shred your own cheese from a block for a creamier texture.
• Warm up the outside of your cheese ball mixture in your hands so the toppings stick easier when coating.
• If topping with crunchy items like pretzel, wait until last minute so they don’t get soggy.
• Place your cheese ball on a small piece of parchment paper when serving for easier clean up.
• Make it vegan using vegan cheese or cashew cheese.
• Make mini cheese ball bites instead of one large on like my Pepper Jelly Cheese Balls!

If you love this recipe as much as I do, please write a five-star review in the comment section below (or on Pinterest with the “tried it” button – you can now add pictures into reviews, too!), and be sure to help me share on facebook!

This classic cheese ball recipe is perfect for your next party or gathering. Serve with buttery crackers, celery sticks, pita chips.

More Party Foods

• Bacon Wrapped Crackers
• Chipped Beef Dip
• Pickle Roll Ups
• Classic Deviled Eggs
• Grape Jelly Meatballs

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