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SNOWMAN CHEESEBALL APPETIZER


  • Author: twiza amys

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cheese Ball Mixture

  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup finely shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup finely chopped pecans
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Snowman Decorations

  • 2 small black olives, for the eyes
  • 1 small carrot, cut into a short pointed piece, for the nose
  • 3 small black olive pieces, for the buttons
  • 1 thin strip of red bell pepper, for the scarf
  • 1 small piece of red bell pepper, optional, for the hat
  • 1 small piece of celery or parsley, optional, for additional decoration
  • ½ cup finely shredded mozzarella, for coating

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese

Place the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl.

Using a hand mixer or sturdy spatula, beat until smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no large lumps before adding the remaining ingredients.

Step 2: Add the Cheese and Seasonings

Add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, chopped pecans, sour cream, ranch seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, chopped chives, and black pepper.

Mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

The mixture should be thick, creamy, and firm enough to shape. If it feels too soft, refrigerate it for approximately 20 to 30 minutes before continuing.

Step 3: Divide and Shape the Cheese Balls

Divide the cheese mixture into two portions.

Make one portion larger for the snowman’s body and the second portion smaller for the head.

Shape the larger portion into a smooth ball. Shape the smaller portion into another ball, making sure it is proportionally smaller than the body.

For easier shaping, place each portion on a separate piece of plastic wrap, gather the edges, and gently roll into a round shape.

Step 4: Chill Until Firm

Wrap both cheese balls tightly and place them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Chilling helps the cream cheese mixture become firm enough to stack without losing its shape.

If the cheese balls still feel soft after chilling, refrigerate them for another 30 minutes.

Step 5: Coat the Snowman

Remove the cheese balls from the refrigerator and unwrap them carefully.

Spread the finely shredded mozzarella on a large plate.

Roll each cheese ball gently in the mozzarella until the surfaces are covered with a white coating.

Use your hands to press a little extra mozzarella onto any uncovered areas.

Step 6: Assemble the Snowman

Place the larger cheese ball in the center of a serving platter. Carefully position the smaller cheese ball on top.

Press gently to help the two portions connect. If needed, use a short food-safe wooden skewer inserted vertically through the center to help stabilize the snowman.

Make sure the skewer is removed before guests begin serving themselves, or clearly warn guests that it is present.

Step 7: Add the Snowman’s Face

Cut two small pieces of black olive and gently press them into the upper cheese ball to create the eyes.

Cut a small pointed piece of carrot and position it in the center of the face to make the snowman’s nose.

Add a tiny smile using small olive pieces or finely chopped black olive if desired.

Step 8: Decorate the Body

Place three small olive pieces down the center of the lower cheese ball to create buttons.

Arrange a thin strip of red bell pepper around the neck area to resemble a festive scarf.

For the hat, use a small piece of red bell pepper shaped into a simple cap, or place a small pretzel or other decorative edible piece on top.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange crackers, pretzels, carrot sticks, celery, and cucumber slices around the snowman.

Keep the finished appetizer refrigerated until serving time. Your adorable Snowman Cheeseball Appetizer is ready to bring a little Christmas magic to your holiday table!

Notes

  • Use block cream cheese: It creates a firmer cheese mixture than whipped cream cheese.
  • Shred the cheese finely: Smaller pieces make the mixture easier to shape and create a smoother outer coating.
  • Chill before assembling: Firm cheese balls are easier to stack and decorate.
  • Dry the decorations: Pat the olives, carrot, and bell pepper dry before adding them.
  • Keep the head smaller: A smaller upper ball gives the snowman a more recognizable shape.
  • Use a serving platter with enough space: Leave room around the snowman for crackers and vegetables.
  • Stabilize carefully: A short food-safe skewer can help keep the stacked cheese balls together.
  • Decorate close to serving: This helps the snowman maintain its appearance throughout the party.