Cheese Ball Bites Appetizer (Print Version)
Creamy cheese bites coated in bacon, chives, pecans, with pretzel sticks for a savory snack.
# Ingredients:
→ Dairy
01 -
12 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
02 -
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
→ Seasonings
03 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 -
1 teaspoon paprika
05 -
Kosher salt, to taste
06 -
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Mix-Ins & Coatings
07 -
8 slices bacon, cooked and finely chopped
08 -
1/3 cup finely chopped fresh chives
09 -
1/3 cup finely chopped pecans
→ Garnish
10 -
18 pretzel sticks
# Steps:
01 -
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and evenly blended.
02 -
Using a small scoop or clean hands, portion and roll the cheese mixture into approximately 18 uniform balls. Arrange on a parchment-lined tray.
03 -
Place tray in the refrigerator and chill for about 1 hour, or until the cheese balls have firmed.
04 -
In a shallow dish, stir together finely chopped bacon, chives, and pecans until evenly distributed.
05 -
Roll each chilled cheese ball in the bacon-chive-pecan mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
06 -
Insert a pretzel stick into the center of each cheese ball to create a convenient handle.
07 -
Serve fresh or loosely cover and refrigerate until needed. For optimal texture, allow cheese ball bites to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
Chilling the cheese balls before coating ensures they hold their shape and makes the coating process tidier.