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Reindeer Cheese Ball (Christmas Appetizer Idea)

Reindeer Cheese Ball (Christmas Appetizer Idea)
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The Reindeer Cheese Ball is a festive and fun holiday appetizer combining creamy sharp cheddar and cream cheese, coated with crunchy nuts, and decorated with pretzel antlers, bell pepper noses, and raisin eyes. Perfect for holiday parties and family gatherings, this easy-to-make cheese ball is customizable, kid-friendly, and sure to impress guests with its charming reindeer design and irresistible flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Coating and Decorations

  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1 small red bell pepper, cut into small pieces (for nose)
  • Pretzel sticks (for antlers)
  • Raisins or peppercorns (for eyes)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: Beat the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Add chopped green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
  2. Shape the Cheese Ball: Using your hands or a spatula, form the cheese mixture into a compact oval or round ball on a clean surface or plate. Don’t stress about perfection as decorations will enhance the look.
  3. Coat the Cheese Ball: Place the chopped pecans or walnuts onto a shallow dish. Gently roll the cheese ball in the nuts, pressing lightly to ensure an even, crunchy coating all around the ball.
  4. Decorate the Reindeer Face: Position two pretzel sticks at the top of the cheese ball to form antlers. Use raisins or peppercorns to create the eyes, and place a small red bell pepper piece as the nose. Use toothpicks if needed to secure decorations firmly.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Wrap the cheese ball tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This allows it to firm up and lets the flavors meld beautifully before presentation.

Notes

  • Soften cream cheese to room temperature prior to mixing for smooth texture without lumps.
  • Lightly toast nuts before coating to enhance flavor and crunch.
  • Use toothpicks to secure pretzel antlers and nose decorations in place.
  • Make the cheese ball a day ahead to deepen flavors and save time.
  • Bring cheese ball to room temperature before serving for best taste and spreadability.

Nutrition

Keywords: holiday appetizer, cheese ball, Christmas snack, festive appetizer, reindeer appetizer, party food, cream cheese, cheddar cheese ball

Find it online: https://withnora.com/reindeer-cheese-ball-christmas-appetizer-idea/