My mother owned a crystal shop and every winter she would hold a small business open house.  One of the best things was the delicious spread of food.  Elegant snowflake punch, creamy peanut butter fudge and a yummy classic cheese ball were the natural draw for a huge crowd. Although I still love the traditional large cheese ball, lately I’ve been turning to these mini cheese balls. Would you just look at those little pretzel handles? Who can resist such an easy appetizer for parties and get togethers! These are something that every buffet bar and every party needs. They’re quick to make and very easy to assemble. They’ll also bring out your creative side! There are so many endless possibilities from one easy base. The traditional cheese ball is rolled in nuts. But you can try rolling them in anything crunchy, like panko crumbs, corn Chex, crushed pretzels, or dare I say, bacon!  Take out the chilling factor and you can whip up these bad boys in about 15 minutes flat. Talk about an easy, peasy party appetizer! Who’s on board?? They are absolutely a real crowd pleaser for sure.  There is no need to hold up the buffet line, you just grab that pretzel stick (gluten-free if desired) and off you go!  It’s as simple as that  and you’re ready to spread, dip and devour that scrumptious, creamy cheesiness on whatever your lil’ ole heart desires, like crackers, pretzels, pitas, and if you must, veggies. Second thought, is it wrong to stuff the whole thing in your mouth? Who needs a cracker when things are so fun, so super cute and so incredibly delicious!!

Mini Classic Cheese Balls

Everyone will love these easy, Mini Classic Cheese Balls. The perfect quick treat for any party! 

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cupts extra sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
  • 1 cup Topping of Your Choice for Rolling: Such as finely chopped nuts, Corn Chex, Panko Crumbs, Crushed Pretzels, Crumbled Bacon
  • 30 Pretzel Sticks (gluten-free, if needed)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, mix the cream cheese until smooth.

  2. Then add the cheddar cheese and mix with a wooden spoon cheeses are combined. Add the rest of the ingredients except the toppings. Mix until thoroughly combined.

  3. With a small cookie scoop, place balls on a parchment lined cookie sheet. Then with your hands roll each mixture into a smooth, uniform ball and place on the cookie sheet or tray  

  4. Let chill in refrigerator for at least two hours or up to 24 hours. (Making them a day a head may take the stress out of party day!.) ll both!), p

  5. Before you are ready to serve, roll each cheese ball into the the topping of your choice. If needed lightly press the toppings into the cheese so that they it sticks. Right before serving, skewer each ball with pretzel. (Don't do this step ahead of time or your pretzel will get soggy.) Viola!

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