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Mini Pimento Cheese Balls

Mini Pimento Cheese Balls
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5.2 from 7 reviews

Mini Pimento Cheese Balls are adorable, easy-to-make, and delicious bite-sized appetizers perfect for any gathering or party. These savory cheese balls combine sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and diced pimentos, rolled in a flavorful pecan and fresh chive coating, making for an irresistible snack that pairs perfectly with crackers.

Ingredients

Cheese Mixture

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 jar (4 ounces) diced pimentos
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Coating

  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh chives

For Serving

  • 36 small square crackers (such as Wheat Thins)

Instructions

  1. Combine Cheeses: In a large bowl, add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Use a hand blender or mixer to blend the cheeses until smooth and well combined.
  2. Add Seasonings and Pimentos: Mix in the diced pimentos, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, kosher salt, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly until ingredients are evenly incorporated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and firm up for shaping.
  3. Prepare Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans and chopped fresh chives, mixing well to create the coating mixture for the cheese balls.
  4. Shape Cheese Balls: Using a two-inch cookie scoop, portion out the cheese mixture into balls. Roll each scoop in your hands to form a smooth, round ball. Then, roll each cheese ball evenly in the pecan and chive mixture, coating all sides. Place the coated cheese balls onto a serving platter.
  5. Serve: Insert a small square cracker into the top of each cheese ball, such as a Wheat Thin. Arrange with additional crackers on the side for serving at gatherings or as a snack.

Notes

  • For best results, use full-fat cheeses for creaminess and flavor.
  • The cayenne pepper can be adjusted to taste or omitted for a milder version.
  • Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.
  • Chilling the cheese mixture is crucial for firm cheese balls that hold shape.
  • Walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pecans if preferred.
  • These cheese balls can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/mini-pimento-cheese-balls/