Get ready to be the star of your holiday gathering with a show-stopping appetizer that's not just delicious, but absolutely Instagram-worthy! This Grape Christmas Tree Cheese Ball is the ultimate conversation starter that transforms a simple cheese spread into a magical, edible Christmas tree that will have your guests amazed and delighted. Imagine a creamy, savory cheese ball adorned with colorful grapes and a fresh parsley "tree topper" that looks almost too beautiful to eat – but trust us, everyone will want a bite!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 bunch of grapes (green and red)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of chopped green onions, 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, a bunch of both green and red grapes, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to blend them together until smooth and well combined.
- Add the chopped green onions and chopped walnuts to the cheese mixture. Stir them in until they are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
- Once everything is mixed, use your hands to form the cheese mixture into a cone shape, resembling a Christmas tree. You can do this by rolling the mixture into a ball and then tapering one end to create the tree shape.
- Place the formed cheese ball on a serving platter. To create the appearance of a Christmas tree, use the bunch of grapes to cover the surface of the cheese ball, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Alternate between green and red grapes to give it a festive look.
- Once the cheese ball is fully covered with grapes, use fresh parsley to garnish the top of the cheese ball, simulating a tree topper. You can also sprinkle some chopped walnuts around the base for added decoration.
- Chill the cheese ball in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up slightly.
- Serve the Grape Christmas Tree Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks for dipping. Enjoy your festive appetizer!
Tips
- Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature for the smoothest, most spreadable consistency.
- Use a variety of green and red grapes to create a more vibrant, festive look.
- Chill the cheese ball before serving to help it maintain its shape and make it easier to slice.
- For a cleaner presentation, wear food-safe gloves when shaping the cheese ball.
- If you want a more intense flavor, consider adding a dash of garlic powder or finely chopped herbs to the cheese mixture.
- Choose crackers or bread with different shapes and textures to complement your festive cheese ball.
- Prepare this appetizer a day ahead and store in the refrigerator to save time on party day.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
