Classic Cheese Ball

Jump To Recipe by Cindy @mycountrytable

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Published: December 28, 2023 · Modified December 28, 2023 by Cindy Gibbs

This Classic Cheese Ball is the perfect party appetizer, and it’s super easy to make. The addition of cream cheese makes it extra creamy and it pairs perfectly with the crunchy pecans on the outside. It will disappear in no time.

This classic cheese ball is one of those easy appetizers that doesn’t require cooking or baking, and it can be made in advance and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve it. It’s the perfect appetizer to set alongside those hot appetizers and dips.

Don’t go out and buy a store bought cheese ball, when you can make one at home that’s so much better. You also have the option of adding your own favorite add ins. Homemade cheese balls are so versatile.

If you’re wanting a hot appetizer to go alongside this cheese ball, make my Spinach Artichoke Dip. My Classic Deviled Eggs are another easy party appetizer.

Pro tips for this recipe

If the cheeseball seems to be too sticky when you form it into a ball, place it back in the refrigerator for about 1/2 hour and try forming it again.
For best flavor, allow the cheese ball to sit out of the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Feel free to add your favorite diced meat to this recipe if you prefer. Bacon bits, diced ham, and chipped beef are great add ins.
Use any soft cheese for this recipe, if you don’t prefer yellow cheddar.
Use a bar of cheese, not packaged pre-shredded for this recipe. Pre-packaged shredded cheese has a waxy coating on it. The bar cheese doesn’t have a coating and is creamier.

How to make this Classic Cheese Ball

Add all the ingredients except for the pecans to a medium size bowl. Using a hand mixer, mix until smooth. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Using a spatula, try to form the mixture into a somewhat messy ball.
Using buttered hands, finish forming the mixture into a neat ball.
Add the chopped pecans to a shallow bowl. Transfer the cheese ball to the bowl. Roll the cheese ball in the pecans, making sure to cover the cheese ball completely with the nuts.

Frequently asked questions

Can I freeze this?

Yes, you can freeze the cheese ball without the pecan coating. Wrap it in two layers of plastic wrap, then heavy foil, or place it in a freezer safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, before rolling it in freshly chopped pecans. Freeze it for up to 2 months.

What should I serve with this?

The options are endless. Serve it with crackers, celery and carrot sticks or other vegetables, pretzels, fruit slices or rye party bread. These are just a few options.

How long will this keep?

If wrapped securely, this cheese ball will keep refrigerated for up to 5 to 6 days.

If you make this recipe please rate it, and leave a comment below on how you like it. I love hearing from you!

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