Dirty Martini Cheese Ball (Print Version)
Cheddar and cream cheese blend with classic martini flavors, green olives, and a walnut-olive coating.
# Ingredients:
→ Cheeses and Dairy
01 -
8 ounces white cheddar cheese, shredded
02 -
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
03 -
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
→ Liquor and Seasoning
04 -
4 1/2 teaspoons gin
05 -
1 1/2 teaspoons dry vermouth
06 -
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
07 -
1/4 teaspoon salt
08 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
09 -
2 teaspoons lemon zest
→ Garnish and Additions
10 -
1/2 cup chopped pitted green olives, divided
11 -
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
12 -
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
13 -
Vegetable dippers and/or crackers, for serving
# Steps:
01 -
Combine white cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and unsalted butter in a large bowl. Beat with a mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and cohesive.
02 -
Add gin, dry vermouth, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue mixing until fully incorporated and the blend is uniform.
03 -
Gently fold in lemon zest and 1/4 cup of the chopped green olives, beating on low speed just until combined.
04 -
Shape the cheese blend into a rough sphere and place in a small bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 8 hours or overnight until thoroughly firm.
05 -
In a shallow dish, mix the remaining 1/4 cup chopped green olives with toasted walnuts and chopped parsley.
06 -
Remove the chilled cheese ball from the refrigerator. Refine the shape by rolling between your hands, then roll in the walnut and olive mixture until evenly coated. Serve at room temperature with vegetable dippers and/or crackers.
# Notes:
01 -
Allow the cheese ball to come to room temperature before serving to enhance spreadability and flavor.