Cheese Ball Bites
Cheese Ball Bites are the perfect appetizer for parties, holidays, or any gathering. These mini cheese balls are creamy, flavorful, and packed with a mix of cheeses, herbs, and spices, rolled in a variety of coatings for a beautiful and tasty presentation. Easy to make and fun to customize, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd favorite!
Equipment
- - Mixing bowl
- - Hand mixer or spatula
- - Small bowls for coatings
- - Tray or platter
- - Toothpicks or pretzel sticks
Ingredients
- #### For the Cheese Balls
- - 8 oz cream cheese softened
- - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- - 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- - 1 tsp garlic powder
- - 1/2 tsp onion powder
- - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- - Salt and pepper to taste
- #### For the Coatings Choose 3-4 or mix and match
- - Finely chopped nuts e.g., pecans, walnuts, or almonds
- - Crumbled bacon
- - Chopped fresh parsley or chives
- - Crushed crackers or pretzels
- - Everything bagel seasoning
Instructions
- **Prepare the Cheese Mixture**
- - In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- **Chill the Mixture**
- - Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the mixture, making it easier to roll.
- **Shape the Cheese Balls**
- - Once chilled, use a small spoon or cookie scoop to portion the mixture. Roll each portion into a ball about 1 inch in diameter.
- **Roll in Coatings**
- - Place your chosen coatings in small bowls. Roll each cheese ball in a coating until evenly covered. Use a different coating for variety.
- **Serve or Chill**
- - Arrange the cheese balls on a serving platter. Insert a toothpick or pretzel stick into each for easy serving. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.