Prepare to elevate your appetizer game with a show-stopping dish that combines creamy white cheddar, tangy cream cheese, and the unexpected burst of pomegranate seeds! This Pomegranate White Cheddar Cheese Ball is not just a recipe—it's a conversation starter that will have your guests begging for the secret behind its irresistible flavor and stunning presentation. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated dinner party or a casual game night, this cheese ball promises to be the star of your spread.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Crackers for serving
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 8 oz of shredded white cheddar cheese and 4 oz of softened cream cheese. Using a hand mixer or a spatula, blend the cheeses together until they are well combined and smooth.
- Next, gently fold in the 1/2 cup of pomegranate seeds and 1/4 cup of chopped green onions into the cheese mixture. Be careful not to break the pomegranate seeds; you want to keep them intact for a burst of flavor.
- Once the pomegranate seeds and green onions are incorporated, add in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans. Mix until everything is evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
- Using your hands, shape the cheese mixture into a ball. If the mixture is too sticky, you can dampen your hands slightly with water to help shape it more easily.
- Once shaped, wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up and the flavors to meld together. If you have time, chilling it overnight will enhance the flavor even more.
- Before serving, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in additional chopped pecans to create a beautiful and crunchy exterior. Make sure to coat it evenly for a nice presentation.
- Transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter and serve with an assortment of crackers. Enjoy your Pomegranate White Cheddar Cheese Ball as a delightful appetizer for your guests!
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature for the smoothest blend.
- Handle Pomegranate Seeds Gently: Fold them in carefully to prevent crushing and maintain their juicy burst.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: While the recipe suggests a minimum 1-hour chill, overnight refrigeration will intensify the flavors.
- Pecan Coating Trick: Dampen your hands slightly when rolling the cheese ball in pecans to help them adhere more evenly.
- Serve at the Right Temperature: Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop and the texture to soften slightly.
- Cracker Pairing: Choose a variety of crackers with different textures and flavors to complement the cheese ball.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This recipe can be prepared up to 2 days in advance, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
