These little gems are the perfect appetizer for the holidays. Instead of making a large cheese ball, these mini cheese balls offer the perfect size for individuals. You also get more bang for the buck with the different toppings.
Cheese Balls:
2 T. salted butter, at room temperature
8 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature
2 t. freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/8 t. Worcestershire sauce
1/8 t. hot sauce
1/8 t. freshly ground black pepper
1/4 c. freshly shredded Cheddar cheese
Topping:
1/3 c. dried cranberries
1/3 c. crushed nuts, almonds, pecans or walnuts
1/3 c. green onion, finely chopped
12-15 pretzel sticks
In a medium bowl, add butter, cream cheese, lemon juice, Worcestershire and hot sauces and black pepper. Beat with an electric mixer until well combined and smooth. Stir in Cheddar cheese.
Use a spoon to divide mixture into 12-15 tablespoon-size portions. Dip clean hands in a little bit of water; smooth each portion into a small ball.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or longer as if making in advance.
Before serving, roll the balls in cranberries, nuts, parsley or green onion. Place a pretzel stick in each.
Serve immediately.
15 servings.
To Make in Advance: The cheese balls can be made 1 day in advance. Prepare as instructed, but add the pretzels right before serving.