Mini Cheeseball Bites Recipe

These Mini Cheeseball Bites are my go-to party appetizer. They’re creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, everything bagel seasoning, and crunchy pecans. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, which is always a bonus when I’m prepping for a party.

Why You’ll Love These Mini Cheeseball Bites

• Flavorful and Fun: These cheeseball bites are bursting with flavor, thanks to the combination of cheeses, everything bagel seasoning, and pecans. They’re also fun to eat and perfect for parties.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, with just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cheeseball bites are great for parties, potlucks, or just a casual get-together with friends and family.
• Versatile: You can easily customize these cheeseball bites with different types of cheese, seasonings, or coatings.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Mini Cheeseball Bites

Here’s what I use to make these delicious cheeseball bites:

• Cream Cheese: I use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: This adds a blend of flavors, including sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt.
• Green Onions: Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Pecans: Finely chopped pecans add a crunchy coating.
• Pretzel Sticks: These are used for serving the cheeseball bites.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

Want to try something different? Here are a few ideas:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheeseball mixture.
• Herby Twist: Mix in some chopped fresh herbs, like chives or parsley.
• Different Nuts: Use chopped walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
• Cheesy Coating: Roll the cheeseball bites in shredded cheese instead of nuts.

How to Make Mini Cheeseball Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese

I start by making sure my cream cheese is softened. I usually set it out at room temperature for a couple of hours before I start making the recipe. Then, I use a spatula or a wooden spoon to make the cream cheese smooth and pliable.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, I combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, everything bagel seasoning, and green onions. I mix everything together until it’s well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Cheeseball Bites

I use a tablespoon measuring spoon or a cookie scoop to scoop out the cheeseball mixture and roll it into small balls.

Step 4: Coat in Pecans

I roll each cheeseball bite in the finely chopped pecans until it’s fully coated.

Step 5: Chill

I place the cheeseball bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate them for at least an hour to firm up.

Step 6: Serve

When I’m ready to serve, I stick a pretzel stick into each cheeseball bite. You can also serve them on top of crackers, if you prefer.

Tips and Tricks

• Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
• Mix Well: Mix the cheeseball mixture thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined.
• Chill Time: Chilling the cheeseball bites helps them to firm up and makes them easier to handle.

How to Serve

These Mini Cheeseball Bites are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with:

• Crackers: Serve them on top of crackers, like Ritz crackers or Triscuits.
• Veggies: They’re also great for dipping vegetables, like carrots or celery sticks.
• Fruit: Try serving them with grapes or apple slices for a sweet and savory combination.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can make these cheeseball bites ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cheeseball bites for up to 2 months.
• Serving: Serve the cheeseball bites chilled.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese you like, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a Mexican cheese blend.

2. Can I make these cheeseball bites without nuts?
Yes, you can roll them in shredded cheese or everything bagel seasoning instead of nuts.

3. Can I use a different type of cracker?
Absolutely! Try using Ritz crackers, Triscuits, Wheat Thins, or any other type of cracker you like.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Mini Cheeseball Bites. I hope you enjoy them!

Print