Cheese ball bites are creamy, bite-sized appetizers made with a smooth blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and savory seasonings. Rolled in crunchy pecans, fresh herbs, and a touch of smoked paprika, each bite delivers a rich, flavorful contrast of creamy and crisp textures. Easy to prepare and perfect for parties, cheese ball bites are a crowd-pleasing snack that pairs beautifully with veggies, crackers, or fruit.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This cheese ball bites
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable flavors to suit every palate and preference.
- Perfectly portable, making them ideal for parties and picnics.
- Creamy and delicious, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
cheese ball bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. This is the base of your delicious cheese ball bites!
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and flavorful.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls. Don’t worry about making them perfect; a little rustic charm is always welcome!
- Spread the crushed crackers on a plate. Roll each cheese ball bite in the crackers to coat them evenly. This adds a delightful crunch!
- Place the coated cheese ball bites in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to serve. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Fat | 8g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbs | 6g |
Ingredients
Get ready to whip up some delicious cheese ball bites that are perfect for any gathering!
- 8 oz cream cheese – softened for easy mixing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – or your favorite cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions – for a fresh kick
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon – or use turkey bacon as a substitute
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder – adds flavor
- salt and pepper to taste – seasoning to your preference
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers – for that perfect crunch
How to Make Cheese Ball Bites
Get ready to impress your guests with these delightful ball bites! With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a chilling time of 1 hour, you’ll have a creamy, savory appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering.
Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. This is the base of your delicious cheese ball bites!
Step 2: Mix in the Ingredients
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and flavorful.
Step 3: Form the Cheese Balls
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls. Don’t worry about making them perfect; a little rustic charm is always welcome!
Step 4: Coat with Crushed Crackers
Spread the crushed crackers on a plate. Roll each cheese ball bite in the crackers to coat them evenly. This adds a delightful crunch!
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Place the coated cheese ball bites in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to serve. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Appetizer |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 0 minutes |
| Extra Time | 60 minutes (Chilling) |
| Total Time | 75 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 12 |
| Best Served | Chilled and ready to enjoy! |
Pro Tips for Making cheese ball bites
- Use softened cream cheese for a smooth texture.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices for unique flavors.
- Chill the cheese ball bites for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Roll in crushed nuts or seeds for added crunch.
- Serve with an assortment of crackers and veggies for a colorful platter.
How to Serve this cheese ball bites
- Serve with an assortment of crunchy veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers.
- Pair with whole grain crackers for a wholesome crunch.
- Offer alongside pretzel bites for a fun twist.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Include a side of tangy dipping sauce, like ranch or hummus.
- Arrange on a platter with sliced apples or grapes for a sweet contrast.
- Use toothpicks for easy serving at parties or gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and enjoying your cheese ball bites later is easy!
Storing Leftovers
- Place leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Keep them away from strong-smelling foods.
Freezing
- Wrap cheese ball bites tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave in short intervals, checking frequently.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What are cheese ball bites and how are they typically served?
Cheese ball bites are small, bite-sized appetizers made from a creamy cheese mixture that is often rolled in various coatings like nuts, herbs, or spices. They are typically served on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating, making them a perfect finger food for parties and gatherings. You can also pair them with crackers, veggies, or bread for added texture and flavor.
2. What ingredients do I need to make cheese ball bites?
To make cheese ball bites, you will need cream cheese, shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella), garlic powder, onion powder, and your choice of herbs or spices. For the coating, you can use chopped nuts, dried herbs, or even crushed crackers. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your taste preferences or dietary needs!
3. How do I store leftover cheese ball bites?
Leftover cheese ball bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. They should stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days, allowing you to enjoy them even after your gathering has ended.
4. Can I make cheese ball bites ahead of time and how long do they last?
Absolutely! Cheese ball bites can be made ahead of time, which is great for party planning. You can prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3 to 5 days, so you can enjoy them fresh and delicious without the last-minute rush!
Final Thoughts
Get ready to impress your friends and family with these delightful cheese ball bites! They’re not just easy to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. So roll up your sleeves, gather your favorite ingredients, and enjoy the simple joy of creating these creamy, dreamy appetizers. Happy snacking!