Delicious Christmas Cheese Ball

Name: Delicious Christmas Cheese Ball
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, dill); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 cup chopped cranberries; 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

This festive Christmas Cheese Ball is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings! Creamy and delicious, it's made with a blend of cheeses, herbs, and spices, then rolled in a colorful assortment of nuts and cranberries for a stunning presentation. Serve it with your favorite crackers or veggies for a delightful appetizer that will impress your guests and elevate your festive spread.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-27T06:37:36.946Z

This cheese ball has become a staple at our family gatherings during the holiday season. The combination of savory and sweet flavors, accompanied by the crunch of nuts, makes it a crowd favorite.

A Festive Treat for Any Occasion

This Delicious Christmas Cheese Ball is not just for Christmas gatherings; it's a versatile appetizer that can enhance any festive occasion. Whether you are hosting a holiday party, a New Year’s Eve celebration, or even a cozy family dinner, this cheese ball is sure to be a hit. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors create an inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to mingle and enjoy the festivities.

Easy to prepare and delightful to serve, this cheese ball becomes the focal point of your appetizer table. Its unique blend of creamy cheeses and crunchy nuts will intrigue your guests and inspire them to try their own combinations at home. Pair it with an assortment of crackers and vegetables to create a visually appealing and delicious spread that complements any theme.

Customize Your Cheese Ball

One of the great things about this cheese ball recipe is how easily it can be customized to fit your taste preferences. If you're a fan of blue cheese, feel free to swap it with feta for a more robust flavor. Alternatively, adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can give it an extra kick, making it a unique addition to your appetizer lineup.

In addition to flavor variations, you can also change the exterior coating. Instead of mixed nuts, try rolling the cheese ball in crushed pretzels, sunflower seeds, or even finely chopped herbs. Each variation adds a personal touch, turning this classic recipe into something uniquely yours.

Perfect for Entertaining

With its striking presentation and delicious taste, the Christmas Cheese Ball is an entertainer's dream. It can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your guests and less time in the kitchen. Simply prepare the cheese ball a day in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator until it's time to serve.

When your guests arrive, simply unwrap and place it on a beautiful platter. Provide an array of dippers such as gourmet crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks, and watch as everyone gathers around to enjoy this delightful appetizer. The communal nature of cheese balls encourages sharing and conversation among your guests, making it perfect for creating memorable moments.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful cheese ball.

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, dill)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 cup chopped cranberries
1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix well and prepare to roll into a ball!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your cheese ball.

Mix the Cheeses

In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, feta cheese, herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Add Cranberries

Fold in the chopped cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.

Form the Ball

Once mixed, use your hands to form the cheese mixture into a ball shape.

Coat with Nuts

Roll the cheese ball in the chopped nuts until evenly coated.

Chill and Serve

Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Serve with crackers or veggies.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Tips for Success

To achieve the best texture for your cheese ball, ensure that your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. This will help create a smooth and creamy consistency that is easy to shape and roll. If you live in a cooler climate, consider placing the cream cheese in a warm room for a while or using a microwave for a few seconds to soften it.

For the nuts, feel free to use your favorites or those that you have on hand. If you want to enhance their flavor further, you can lightly toast them in a pan before using them as the coating. This extra step adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheeses.

Storage Recommendations

After preparing your cheese ball, store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its freshness. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it a great make-ahead option for busy holiday schedules. If you plan to make it even further in advance, consider freezing the cheese ball, which will keep it fresh for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

When you're ready to serve, remember that the cheese ball tastes best at room temperature. Allow it to sit out for about 30 minutes before serving to bring out its full flavor. This little tip will make all the difference in the taste and enjoyment of your festive dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with the cheese ball?

It's delicious with crackers, sliced veggies, or even breadsticks!