Herb & Nut Cream Cheese Ball

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 12
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If you're looking for a crowd-pleaser that's quick to whip up and bursting with flavor, this Herb & Nut Cream Cheese Ball is your go-to recipe. It’s creamy, zesty, and the perfect appetizer for any gathering.

Ingredients for Herb & Nut Cream Cheese Ball

Cream cheese is the base that makes this ball creamy and spreadable. The tanginess pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Shredded sharp cheddar cheese adds depth and a robust, cheesy flavor. The blend of parsley, chives, and dill brings freshness and a herby dimension. Walnuts add a delightful crunch and nuttiness, while garlic powder and onion powder provide savory notes without overpowering. A sprinkle of black pepper and salt enhances all the flavors, and a dash of lemon juice brightens the whole mix.

Tips & Tricks

  • For easier mixing, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  • Toasting the walnuts briefly in a dry pan can enhance their flavor and aroma.
  • If you’re short on time, you can chill the cheese ball in the freezer for 20 minutes instead.

Serving Suggestions

This cheese ball pairs wonderfully with a variety of crackers and sliced vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or carrots. Try serving it with some toasted baguette slices for an elevated touch. It's also a great companion to a glass of crisp white wine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it up to two days in advance. Just keep it wrapped and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
What if I don't like walnuts?
No problem! You can substitute with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

Herb & Nut Cream Cheese Ball Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Toss in the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix them until they're smooth and well blended. This part is important because you want the base to be creamy without any lumps.

Next, add the chopped mixed herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice to the bowl. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. You should see flecks of green herbs throughout the creamy mix, which means you're doing it right!

Lay out a piece of plastic wrap on your countertop. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the wrap, and shape it into a ball with your hands. Don't worry if it's not perfect — rustic is charming!

Spread the chopped walnuts evenly on a plate. Gently roll your cheese ball over the walnuts, pressing slightly so the nuts stick to the surface. This will give your cheese ball a lovely crunch and an attractive appearance.

Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap, and pop it into the fridge for at least an hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick prep time — you can have it ready in under 20 minutes, plus chilling.
  • Perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and nutty flavors.
  • No cooking required, just mix, shape, and chill.
  • Customizable with your favorite herbs and nuts.

Ingredients

16 oz cream cheese softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped mixed herbs (parsley, chives, dill)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp lemon juice
Crackers or sliced vegetables for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until smooth and well blended.
2. Add the chopped mixed herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice to the cheese mixture. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap, shaping it into a ball.
4. Spread the chopped walnuts evenly on a plate.
5. Roll the cheese ball over the walnuts, pressing gently to ensure the nuts adhere to the surface.
6. Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve with crackers or sliced vegetables.

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