Introduction
Looking for a fun and festive appetizer to impress your guests? These Two-Bite Cranberry Cheese Ball Pops are just the ticket! With a creamy combination of cheeses, a delightful crunch from nuts, and a sweet-tart burst from dried cranberries, these little bites are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a delicious finger food. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds), finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden sticks or lollipop sticks
- Fresh cranberries for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12-15 cheese ball pops
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled feta cheese. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix them well, blending until smooth and creamy.
- Add in the chopped dried cranberries, finely chopped nuts, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the cheese mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. You should get around 12 to 15 balls from this mixture.
- Take a wooden stick and gently insert it into the center of each cheese ball, transforming them into delightful pops.
- If you like, roll the cheese ball pops in additional chopped nuts or shredded coconut for a beautiful and tasty coating.
- Place the finished pops on a plate and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps them firm up beautifully.
- Serve the cheese ball pops cold or at room temperature. For an added touch, garnish with fresh cranberries for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses based on your taste preference; goat cheese would also work beautifully!
- These cheese ball pops can be made up to a day in advance. Just keep them stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
- For a fun twist, consider adding some chopped herbs like chives or dill to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Creating these cheese ball pops is all about mixing and forming. The key technique here is to ensure that all ingredients are blended thoroughly so each bite is bursting with flavor. Rolling the cheese balls should be done gently to keep them intact while inserting the sticks. Chilling them before serving helps maintain their shape and enhances the overall taste!
FAQ
- Can I use different nuts? Absolutely! Use any nut you prefer or even try seeds to accommodate nut allergies.
- How long can I store these? The cheese ball pops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze these? Yes, these pops can be frozen before the chilling step. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving.
Conclusion
These Two-Bite Cranberry Cheese Ball Pops are not just delicious; they’re a joyful treat that brings smiles at gatherings big and small. Their vibrant flavors and textures are sure to get everyone talking! So grab your ingredients and enjoy making a snack that’s as fun to create as it is to eat. Happy snacking!