Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball
Highlighted under: Warm Bowl Classics
Elevate your next gathering with this delicious Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball, a perfect blend of creamy white cheddar and sweet tartness from dried cranberries. This easy-to-make appetizer is ideal for parties, game day, or holiday celebrations, bringing together a unique combination of flavors that will impress your guests. Serve it with your favorite crackers or fruit for a delightful snack that’s both savory and sweet.
This Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball combines the sharpness of white cheddar with the sweetness of dried cranberries, creating a perfect balance that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Unique flavor combination
- Perfect for any occasion
- Serves well with various snacks
Perfect for Parties
When it comes to hosting parties, the right appetizers can set the tone for a memorable gathering. This Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful mix of flavors that your guests will love. Its unique combination of creamy cheese and sweet-tart Craisins makes it a standout choice on any serving table.
Whether it's a birthday celebration, a holiday get-together, or a casual game day with friends, this cheese ball is sure to be a hit. The easy-to-make nature of the recipe allows you to spend more time enjoying the occasion rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the best aspects of the Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball is its versatility. You can easily modify this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For example, if you enjoy a bit more crunch, you can add chopped bell peppers or switch out the walnuts for pecans or almonds. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the cheese ball to your guests' tastes.
This recipe also works wonderfully with a variety of sides. Pair it with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguettes, or fresh fruit for a delightful contrast of flavors. You could also offer a selection of vegetables for those seeking a healthier option. The cheese ball pairs well with both savory and sweet accompaniments.
A Crowd-Pleasing Option
Crowd-pleasing appetizers don't have to be complicated, and the Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball exemplifies that perfectly. Its balanced blend of flavors caters to diverse palates, making it a great choice for a mixed group. The cream cheese provides a smooth, rich base, while the white cheddar adds a sharp bite that complements the sweetness of the Craisins beautifully.
This cheese ball also stores well, so you can make it ahead of time and leave it in your refrigerator until you're ready to serve. It keeps its texture and flavor, ensuring that when it's time to entertain, you can focus on connecting with your guests instead of juggling last-minute dishes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cheese Ball Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Craisins (dried cranberries)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded white cheddar cheese, Craisins, chopped green onions, chopped walnuts, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Shape the Cheese Ball
Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a ball. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Serve
Once chilled, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator, unwrap it, and place it on a serving platter. Serve with crackers or fresh fruit.
Enjoy your delicious cheese ball!
Storage Tips
To ensure the best taste and texture, store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week, so feel free to enjoy it throughout your week as a quick snack or as a part of your lunch. Just keep in mind that the flavors may intensify slightly over time, which can make for an even more enjoyable experience.
If you've made the cheese ball ahead of time, you can also freeze it for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to serve, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before unwrapping and serving.
Serving Suggestions
For an impressive presentation, consider garnishing your cheese ball with additional Craisins, chopped nuts, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives. A beautiful display will entice your guests to dive in. You can also pair the cheese ball with a homemade dipping sauce, such as a honey mustard or a cranberry chutney, to elevate the flavor profile even further.
Create a cheese board surrounding the cheese ball with assorted crackers, sliced apples, grapes, and even charcuterie items to make a complete snack or appetizer spread. This arrangement not only adds visual interest to your table but also offers your guests a variety of tastes and textures to enjoy.
Pairing Drinks
When it comes to drink pairings, the Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball complements a variety of beverages. Consider serving it with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which can balance the flavors of the cheese and cranberries beautifully. For those who prefer beer, a light lager or a fruit-infused craft beer works perfectly.
Non-alcoholic options are also plentiful—sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice or a refreshing iced tea can be great companions to this cheese ball. Offering a selection of drinks ensures that every guest finds something they enjoy, making your gathering truly memorable.
Questions About Recipes
→ How long can I store the cheese ball?
You can store the cheese ball in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cheese ball?
Yes, you can freeze the cheese ball for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball
Elevate your next gathering with this delicious Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball, a perfect blend of creamy white cheddar and sweet tartness from dried cranberries. This easy-to-make appetizer is ideal for parties, game day, or holiday celebrations, bringing together a unique combination of flavors that will impress your guests. Serve it with your favorite crackers or fruit for a delightful snack that’s both savory and sweet.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Warm Bowl Classics
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Cheese Ball Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Craisins (dried cranberries)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded white cheddar cheese, Craisins, chopped green onions, chopped walnuts, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a ball. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Once chilled, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator, unwrap it, and place it on a serving platter. Serve with crackers or fresh fruit.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 6g