These Cheese Ball Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleasers, combining creamy cheese, flavorful spices, and a crunchy coating for the perfect bite-sized treat. If you love a traditional cheese ball, this recipe will delight you even more. Stick a little pretzel stick in each one for easy serving!

cheese ball bites with pretzel sticks stuck in them

Mini cheese balls are the perfect appetizer for any get-together, whether it’s game day, a baby shower, or a family gathering during the holiday season. They have a creamy texture and are packed with flavor, making them sure to delight your guests’ taste buds!

Looking for more delicious appetizers for your next party? Try our Dill Pickle Jalapeño Poppers, Blue Cheese Buffalo Chicken Dip, or Cheeseburger Meatballs.

ingredients for cheese ball bites in bowls, ready to be mixed together

Ingredients You Need

Softened cream cheese: Provides the creamy base for the cheese balls.
Shredded cheese: Adds sharpness and depth of flavor.
Garlic powder: Enhances the savory taste.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds a hint of umami.
Chopped pecans: For a crunchy coating.
Fresh parsley: Adds color and freshness.

head of garlic on a piece of aluminum foil

Easy Ingredient Substitutions

Swap cheddar cheese for Gouda or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Use chopped almonds or crispy bacon instead of pecans for coating.
Experiment with different herbs like chives or dill for added freshness.

cheese ball bites filling in a food processor

FAQ

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake actually tastes better when made a day in advance as it allows the flavors to meld together.

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?

While espresso provides the authentic flavor, you can substitute strong coffee or instant coffee dissolved in hot water. Adjust the quantity to taste.

How to Serve Cheese Ball Bites

Serve with your favorite cracker or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Arrange them on a platter with fresh fruit for a colorful appetizer spread.
Pair with a glass of wine or sparkling cider for a delightful snack.

cheese ball bites on a piece of parchment paper

How to Store Cheese Ball Bites

Store cheese ball bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Pro Tip: Let your cheese ball bites soften a bit at room temperature before serving so your pretzels don’t break when you’re spearing them.

a hand grabbing a cheese ball bite off a plate

Cheese Ball Bites

Cheese Ball Bites are such a festive and fun party appetizer! This bite-sized recipe is a true crowd pleaser and so very easy to make.

Prep:15

Cook:5

Total:20

Fat 20

Carbs 5

Protein 6

Yield:

Ingredients

1 head garlic
1 teaspoon olive oil
16 oz. softened cream cheese
2 cups yellow shredded cheddar cheese
3/4 teaspoon salt divided
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked pepper
1 cup raw pecans
2 tablespoons maple syrup
Pretzel sticks for serving

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375ºF.
Slice off the end of a head of garlic (the opposite end of the root) so that the head stays intact.
Place the garlic head on a piece of aluminum foil and drizzle it with olive oil. Wrap the garlic with tin foil and place the garlic in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Remove the garlic from the oven. Set aside.
Next, add the softened cream cheese to a food processor and process until the cream cheese is smooth.
Squeeze the garlic cloves from the garlic paper into the food processor. The garlic should easily squeeze out into the food processor.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, ½ teaspoon salt, and cracked pepper to the food processor and process the ingredients together on low until all the ingredients are combined.
Once the ingredients are combined, scrape the sides of the food processor and cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Place the cream cheese mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes until it firms up.
Meanwhile, prepare the candied pecans. Chop the pecans up into small pieces (almost chopped into crumbs) and place them in a large skillet and heat over medium heat.
Drizzle the maple syrup over the pecans and add the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt.
Toast the pecans for 4-5 minutes or until they begin to brown.
Remove the pecans from the heat and spread them out on a plate.
When the cream cheese is ready, remove it from the fridge.
Use a ½ tablespoon scoop to scoop out the cream cheese mixture and roll the cream cheese into a ball. Roll the ball in the pecan crumbs and place the cream cheese ball rolled in pecans on a plate. Repeat this process until the cream cheese mixture is gone.
Carefully place a pretzel stick into the center of each cream cheese ball and serve.

Watch It

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