Ornament Cheeseball Recipe

Name: Ornament Cheeseball Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 8-10
Ingredients: 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup chopped green onions; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp onion powder; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts); 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper; Various crackers and vegetable sticks for serving

Highlighted under: Festive Holiday Recipes

Elevate your holiday gatherings with this festive Ornament Cheeseball! This fun and creative appetizer combines cream cheese and savory seasonings, rolled into a beautiful ornament shape and adorned with colorful toppings. Perfect for spreading on crackers or veggies, it’s sure to be a showstopper at any celebration. Delight your guests and add some cheer to your cheese board with this simple yet stunning recipe.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-27T05:37:46.253Z

This festive cheeseball is a delightful addition to any holiday party. Made with creamy cheese and a variety of toppings, it brings everyone together around the cheese board.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Ornament Cheeseball is a versatile addition to your holiday spread or any festive gathering. Whether it's a family reunion, office party, or a cozy get-together with friends, this cheeseball will surely impress your guests. Not only does it bring festive flair to your table, but it also caters to various dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser. The combination of creamy textures and vibrant toppings creates a visually appealing centerpiece that draws everyone in.

Hosting can be stressful, but having a few standout recipes like this cheeseball can ease the pressure. It requires minimal preparation time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your event. Besides, who doesn't love a dish that encourages mingling? Guests can gather around, spread the cheeseball onto crackers or veggies, and share in the laughter and conversation that comes with holiday cheer.

Rich in Flavor

The foundation of this cheeseball is a delightful blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar, which provides a creamy, tangy taste. The addition of green onions adds a mild crunch, while garlic and onion powders contribute a savory depth that's simply irresistible. Each bite offers a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the varied toppings, resulting in an appetizer that excites the palate.

The toppings of nuts, cranberries, and red bell peppers not only enhance the flavor profile but also bring texture to each serving. The sweetness of the cranberries complements the savory cheese, while the nuts provide a satisfying crunch. This contrast in textures and flavors makes the Ornament Cheeseball not just a treat for the mouth but also a joy for the eyes.

Easy to Customize

One of the best aspects of this Ornament Cheeseball recipe is its adaptability. If you or your guests have specific dietary needs or preferences, you can easily substitute ingredients. For example, if you need a vegan alternative, try using a plant-based cream cheese and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses and spices to create your signature cheeseball.

Adding more toppings is another fun way to customize your cheeseball. Consider using chopped fresh herbs for added freshness, or substitute the nuts for seeds to cater to nut-free diets. The cranberries could be replaced with chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a savory twist. This recipe encourages creativity in the kitchen, allowing you to make it your own while still adhering to that delightful ornament shape!

Ingredients

For the Cheeseball

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder

For Topping

1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
Various crackers and vegetable sticks for serving

Combine all cheeseball ingredients and roll into a sphere, then coat with toppings.

Instructions

Prepare the Cheeseball

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and onion powder until well blended.

Shape the Cheeseball

Form the mixture into a ball shape and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Add Toppings

After chilling, remove the cheeseball from the fridge and roll it in the chopped nuts, cranberries, and red bell pepper.

Serve

Transfer the cheeseball to a serving platter, and serve with crackers and veggie sticks.

Enjoy your delicious Ornament Cheeseball at your holiday gathering!

Tips for Perfecting Your Cheeseball

For the best results, ensure your cream cheese is completely softened before mixing. This will help create a smooth and creamy texture, making it easier to blend with other ingredients. You can speed up the softening process by cutting the cream cheese into smaller cubes and letting it sit out for about 15 to 20 minutes.

When shaping your cheeseball, wet your hands lightly with water. This will prevent the cheese mixture from sticking to your hands, making it easier to form a perfect ball. Don't be afraid to get your hands a little messy; the final result will be worth it!

Storing Leftovers

If you're fortunate enough to have leftovers, storing them correctly will keep your cheeseball fresh for days. Wrap the cheeseball tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week, making it a great make-ahead option for your holiday gatherings.

When you're ready to serve it again, simply remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will enhance the flavors and make it easier to spread once more. If you like, refresh the toppings for a vibrant presentation!

Serving Suggestions

Serving your Ornament Cheeseball with a variety of crackers, breadsticks, and vegetable sticks creates a beautiful and inviting display. Consider adding a few different types of crackers, such as whole grain, herb-flavored, or gluten-free options, to cater to your guests' preferences. Fresh vegetable sticks such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers not only complement the cheeseball's flavor but also add a refreshing crunch.

For an added touch, you can include small bowls of additional toppings, such as extra chopped herbs or a drizzle of honey, to give guests a chance to personalize their servings. This interactive element makes the appetizer even more engaging for guests while showcasing your culinary creativity!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheeseball in advance?

Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if desired.