Tiny Cheese Ball Appetizer 🧀🎉

These delightful bite-sized cheese balls are perfect for parties, gatherings, or a fun snack anytime! Creamy, savory, and rolled in various toppings, they are sure to impress your guests while being simple to prepare. Each tiny cheese ball packs a flavorful punch and can be customized to match any theme or occasion! Pair them with your favorite crackers or fresh vegetables for the ultimate appetizer experience! 🥕🍪

Ingredients

For the cheese mixture

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh herbs (like chives or parsley, chopped finely)

For the coatings

• 1/4 cup crushed nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• 1/4 cup everything bagel seasoning
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh herbs (like dill or parsley)

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, blue cheese (or feta), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and herbs. Mix until well combined and smooth.

   🥄 You can use an electric mixer for a fluffier texture or just a spatula for a chunkier feel, depending on your preference.

2. Scoop out small amounts of the cheese mixture (about a tablespoon each) and roll them into small balls. You should have about 16-20 tiny cheese balls.

3. Place the various coatings on separate plates. Roll each cheese ball in a coating of your choice until evenly covered.

   🍴 Don't be afraid to mix and match coatings for fun flavor combinations!

4. Arrange the coated cheese balls on a serving platter and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

5. Serve with your favorite crackers, sliced vegetables, or as a part of a charcuterie board.

   🥒 Adding a touch of honey or a spicy jam on the side can elevate the flavor and complement the cheesiness perfectly!

Variations

• Spicy: Mix in some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a kick! 🔥
• Sweet and Savory: Substitute dried fruit like apricots or figs for cranberries, and use goat cheese instead of cheddar.
• Mediterranean: Use feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes in the mixture, then roll in za'atar seasoning for a Middle Eastern flair.
• Low-carb: Opt for a low-carb cream cheese alternative and skip the crackers, serving with cucumber slices instead!

These Tiny Cheese Ball Appetizers are sure to be the stars of your gathering – enjoy! 🎊🧀