Description
These Mini Cheese Ball Bites are perfect bite-sized appetizers, combining creamy cream cheese with sharp cheddar, enhanced by sour cream and flavorful seasonings. Coated in a savory mix of fresh chives, nuts, and bacon bits, and served with pretzel sticks, they are ideal for parties, holiday gatherings, or casual snacking. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite cheeses and toppings, these no-cook cheese balls offer a delicious and elegant snack that’s ready in just 20 minutes plus chilling time.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Coating
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh chives
- ¼ cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- ¼ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
Serving
- Pretzel sticks for serving
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Chill Mixture: Refrigerate the cheese mixture for 20 to 30 minutes to allow it to firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.
- Prepare Coating: While chilling, mix together the finely chopped fresh chives, chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), and crumbled bacon in a shallow bowl. This coating adds texture and flavor to the cheese balls.
- Shape Cheese Balls: Once the mixture is firm, scoop out approximately 1 tablespoon portions and roll each into a small ball using your hands.
- Coat Cheese Balls: Roll each cheese ball in the prepared coating mixture until fully covered, ensuring an even layer on all sides.
- Insert Pretzel Sticks: Carefully insert a pretzel stick into each cheese ball for easy handling and serving.
- Serve or Chill: Arrange the mini cheese balls on a serving platter and serve immediately, or store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
- Prepare these cheese balls a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for convenience.
- For a different flavor, substitute cheddar cheese with pepper jack, gouda, or any of your favorite cheeses.
- To make a nut-free version, replace the chopped nuts with finely crushed pretzels or crispy fried onions.
- If gluten-free pretzels are used, the recipe can be enjoyed gluten-free.
