Save Charming, bite-sized cheese balls shaped like acorns, coated with nuts and herbs&mdashperfect for autumn gatherings and festive entertaining.
This recipe has been a hit at every fall party I've hosted and always impresses guests with its unique presentation and delicious flavors.
Ingredients
- Cheese Mixture: 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese softened, 120 g (1 cup) sharp cheddar cheese finely shredded, 2 tablespoons chives finely chopped, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, Pinch of salt
- Coating & Decoration: 60 g (1/2 cup) finely chopped toasted pecans, 60 g (1/2 cup) finely chopped parsley or fresh dill, 24 mini pretzel sticks, 24 small rosemary leaves (optional for acorn stems)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, chives, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Step 2:
- Scoop out heaping teaspoons of the cheese mixture and roll them into small oval or acorn shapes using your hands.
- Step 3:
- Roll the top half of each cheese ball in the chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere. Roll the bottom half in parsley or dill for contrast.
- Step 4:
- Insert a mini pretzel stick into the top of each cheese ball to resemble an acorn stem. Add a rosemary leaf if desired.
- Step 5:
- Arrange acorn cheese balls on a serving platter. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving for best texture.
Save This recipe always brings my family together during the holidays; my kids love helping shape the little acorns before the guests arrive.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, hand mixer or sturdy spoon, measuring spoons and cups, small ice cream scoop or tablespoon (optional), knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, cheddar) and tree nuts (pecans). Contains gluten if using regular pretzel sticks; use gluten-free pretzels for a GF option.
Nutritional Information
Calories 75 per serving, total fat 6 g, carbohydrates 2 g, protein 2 g
Save These cheese ball bites are easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese is used?
A combination of softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar creates a smooth, flavorful base.
- → Can I substitute the nuts in the coating?
Yes, toasted pecans can be replaced with walnuts or almonds according to preference.
- → What herbs are best for coating?
Finely chopped fresh parsley or dill provides a bright contrast to the nut coating.
- → How should these bites be stored?
Store refrigerated for up to 24 hours to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Use gluten-free mini pretzel sticks to keep these bites suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.