Name: Mini Cheese Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Optional toppings: toasted sesame seeds, minced fresh rosemary, paprika; Optional garnishes: halved rye crisps, rolled tortilla chips

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Creamy cheddar and cream cheese bites rolled in flavorful toppings—perfect for appetizers, parties, or snacking on the go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Mini Cheese Balls are bite-sized crowd-pleasers that are easy to make ahead. The combination of tangy cream cheese and sharp cheddar offers rich flavor, while optional toppings like sesame, rosemary, and paprika add texture and visual appeal. Serve with crackers or chips for effortless entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Optional Toppings

Toasted sesame seeds
Minced fresh rosemary
Paprika

Optional Garnishes

Halved rye crisps
Rolled tortilla chips

Directions

Mix Cheeses
In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar until smooth and well blended.
Form Cheese Balls
Shape mixture into 36 uniform balls using a small cookie scoop or by hand.
Coat in Toppings
Roll each cheese ball in your choice of toppings—sesame seeds, rosemary, paprika—or mix and match for variety.
Chill
Cover and refrigerate cheese balls for at least 8 hours or overnight to firm up and blend flavors.
Add Garnishes (Optional)
Just before serving, press a halved rye crisp or rolled tortilla chip into the top of each cheese ball for a fun and edible garnish.

Servings And Timing

Makes: 36 mini cheese balls
Prep time: ~20 minutes
Refrigeration: 8 hours to overnight
Total time: ~8 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Roll in crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder.
Herb Blend: Combine chopped parsley, chives, and dill for a fresh flavor.
Bacon Lovers: Roll in crispy bacon bits for added crunch.
Sweet & Savory: Add a teaspoon of honey and coat in chopped nuts for a sweet twist.

Storage/Reheating

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Freeze uncoated cheese balls for up to a month. Thaw overnight and then coat before serving.
Serving: Best served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Yes! Garlic-and-herb or chive cream cheese adds extra flavor.

2. How do I get uniform balls?

Use a small cookie or melon baller for consistent size and shape.

3. Can I make them ahead?

Absolutely—cheese balls should be chilled at least 8 hours and can be made a day ahead.

4. What’s a good party presentation?

Arrange on a platter with assorted crackers, crisps, or chips around the edge.

5. Are these kid-friendly?

Yes—they’re mild, creamy, and easy to eat with fun garnishes.

6. Can I add garlic or onion powder?

Sure—mix in ½ teaspoon of either to enhance the flavor.

7. What’s best for garnishing?

Use sturdy bites like rye crisps or rolled tortilla chips that stick securely.

8. Can I halve the recipe?

Yes—just make 18 cheese balls by halving all ingredients.

9. How do I prevent them from sticking?

Cover the surface with toppings—you can also chill before coating to firm them up first.

10. Can I make these vegan?

Use vegan cream cheese and cheddar-style shreds; choose plant-based toppings.

Conclusion

These Mini Cheese Balls are simple to make, deliciously cheesy, and endlessly customizable. Perfect for hitting snack tables, easy to prepare in advance, and always a hit—roll, chill, garnish, and impress at your next gathering!