20 Fancy Christmas Cheese Ball Recipes That Will Steal the Spotlight!

Cheese balls are a must-have for Christmas celebrations, offering endless ways to add flavor and charm to your holiday table. These 20 recipes showcase creative combinations of ingredients that range from savory to sweet. Each cheese ball is a festive centerpiece, perfect for impressing guests while keeping preparation simple.

Reindeer Cheese Ball Recipe

This festive and easy-to-make Reindeer Cheese Ball is a must-have holiday appetizer. Packed with creamy flavors and decorated like a cheerful reindeer, it’s sure to be a hit at your Christmas party!

• Servings: 10
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 4 hours

Ingredients

• 2 blocks cream cheese (2×8 ounces), softened
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 8 ounces medium cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
• 2 cups roughly chopped pecans
• 2 medium pitted black olives (for the eyes)
• 1 cherry tomato (for the nose)
• 2 regular-sized pretzels (for the antlers)

Directions

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add shredded cheddar and ranch seasoning mix. Beat again until fully combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
2. Form the Ball: Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Place the cheese mixture onto the wrap and use it to mold the mixture into a ball. Twist the wrap shut and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours or overnight to allow it to firm up.
3. Decorate the Reindeer: Once chilled, roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans until fully coated. Place it on a serving plate. Insert the pretzels as antlers, press the olives in for eyes, and secure the cherry tomato as the nose. Use toothpicks or pretzel sticks if needed for support.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Surround the cheese ball with crackers and add fresh herbs for garnish if desired. Serve and delight your guests with this adorable holiday appetizer!

Christmas Tree Cheese Ball with Olives

This festive cheese ball is a holiday centerpiece with a flavorful mix of sun-dried tomatoes, peppers, and herbs. Decorated like a Christmas tree with olives and rosemary, it’s perfect for serving alongside crackers and cold meats.

• Servings: 14
• Prep Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Dip:

• 4 cups cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• ½ cup red bell peppers, diced
• ¼ cup dill pickles, finely diced
• ¼ cup chives, chopped
• ¼ cup parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 pinch salt, to taste

For the Decorations:

• 1 ½ – 2 cups pitted mixed olives (black, green, Kalamata, dried with paper towels)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (dried with paper towels)
• Rosemary leaves or sprigs for garnish
• Ritz crackers, water crackers, or pretzels for serving
• 8 slices salami
• 8 slices prosciutto
• Optional: Sun-dried tomato oil for brushing
• Optional: Star cut from yellow or orange bell pepper, or a slice of cheese

Directions

1. Prepare the Dip: Combine all the dip ingredients in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
2. Shape the Tree: Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Scoop the cream cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap, then cover with another sheet of plastic wrap. Mold the mixture into a tree shape using your hands.
3. Transfer to Serving Plate: Carefully lift the cheese tree with one hand and peel off the bottom layer of plastic wrap with the other. Place the tree onto a serving plate and smooth the edges with a cake spatula.
4. Decorate the Tree: Press olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and rosemary leaves into the cream cheese to create a festive tree design. Brush with sun-dried tomato oil for added flavor if desired.
5. Add the Finishing Touches: Top with a star cut from a bell pepper or cheese slice. Surround the tree with crackers, salami, and prosciutto slices for serving.

Christmas Tree Cheese Ball Bread

This festive pull-apart bread combines cheesy, herby flavors with a fun and decorative presentation. Easy to prepare with pizza dough and mozzarella, it’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer that doubles as a centerpiece.

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb refrigerated pizza dough
• Egg wash (1 egg whisked with 1 tbsp water)
• 7 mozzarella sticks
• ¼ cup melted butter
• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan
• 1 tbsp thinly sliced basil
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped rosemary
• Marinara, warmed (for serving)

Directions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut mozzarella sticks into 1-inch pieces and set aside.
2. Shape the Dough Balls: On a floured surface, divide pizza dough into two pieces. Roll each into a long rectangle, then cut into 2-inch squares (33 total). Wrap a dough square around each mozzarella piece to form tightly sealed balls.
3. Assemble and Bake: Arrange the dough balls seam-side down on the baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, ensuring they touch. Brush with egg wash and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden.
4. Add Toppings: While baking, whisk together melted butter, Parmesan, and herbs. Brush the baked tree with this mixture.
5. Serve: Pair the warm, cheesy tree with marinara for dipping. Enjoy!

Pomegranate Christmas Cheese Ball

This festive cheese ball combines creamy cheeses, toasty almonds, and fresh herbs, all beautifully decorated with jewel-like pomegranate arils. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it’s a classy yet simple appetizer that will impress your guests.

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (8-oz.) block cream cheese, softened
• 6 oz. goat cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère (or sharp white cheddar)
• 1/2 cup sliced, toasted almonds
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup pomegranate arils
• Crackers, for serving

Directions

1. Mix the Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, goat cheese, and Gruyère until smooth. Fold in almonds, parsley, and thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Form the mixture into a ball.
2. Coat with Pomegranate: Spread pomegranate arils on a large plate. Gently roll the cheese ball in the arils until fully coated, filling any gaps by hand as needed.
3. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cheese ball until firm, about 20 minutes. Serve with crackers and enjoy this stunning holiday appetizer!

Ree Drummond Christmas Tree Cheese Ball

This whimsical cheese ball shaped like a Christmas tree is a fun and flavorful appetizer. Packed with creamy cheese, herbs, and a touch of spice, it’s festive and easy to make for your holiday gatherings.

• Servings: 8 to 10
• Total Time: 45 minutes (includes freezing time)
• Active Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 8 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 to 3 dashes Worcestershire sauce
• 3 scallions, sliced
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup very finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds
• Buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz), for serving

Directions

1. Blend the Mixture: In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, Cheddar, cayenne, Worcestershire sauce, scallions, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse until nearly smooth, leaving a few bits of cheese for texture.
2. Prepare the Base: Use a spatula to transfer the mixture to plastic wrap. Wrap tightly and place in the freezer for 30 minutes.
3. Shape the Tree: Unwrap the chilled cheese mixture and shape it into a cone resembling a Christmas tree.
4. Decorate the Tree: On a plate or work surface, mix the parsley and dill. Roll the cheese cone in the herbs until fully coated.
5. Add Ornaments: Transfer the cheese tree to a serving platter and decorate with pomegranate seeds as ornaments.

Christmas Cheese Ball with Dried Beef

This festive cheese ball combines creamy cheese, savory dried beef, and a touch of onion for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Customize it with your favorite toppings or enjoy it plain!

• Servings: 10
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 3 ounces dried beef, finely chopped
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 ¼ teaspoons monosodium glutamate (MSG) (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon onion salt
• Optional: bacon bits or chopped nuts for rolling, extra chopped onions for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, dried beef, and chopped green onions.
2. Season the Mixture: Add Worcestershire sauce, MSG (if using), and onion salt. Mix well until fully incorporated.
3. Shape and Chill: Form the mixture into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Add Optional Toppings: If desired, roll the chilled cheese ball in bacon bits or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture. Garnish with additional chopped onions, if preferred.
5. Serve: Place the cheese ball on a serving platter with crackers or vegetables for dipping. Enjoy!

Christmas Cookie Dough Cheese Ball

This creamy dessert cheese ball is loaded with chocolate chip cookie dough flavor and coated in crunchy pecans. A festive treat perfect for holiday gatherings!

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup butter, softened
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup pecans, finely chopped

Directions

1. Mix the Base: Using an electric mixer, blend the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and brown sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
2. Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in the mini chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Shape and Chill: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until slightly firm. Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill until firm, about 1 hour.
4. Coat and Serve: Roll the cheese ball in finely chopped pecans until fully coated. Serve with graham crackers, pretzels, or Nilla wafers for dipping.

Christmas Cheese Ball (Nut-Free)

This nut-free cheese ball is packed with creamy cheeses, savory bacon, and zesty seasonings. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday parties!

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

Cheese Ball:

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (4 oz.)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella (2 oz.)
• ¼ cup finely chopped white onion (40g)
• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onion (22g)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 dashes Tabasco sauce or your favorite hot sauce

Coating:

• 5 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled (~50g)
• 4–5 green onions, finely diced (85g or about ¾ cup)

Directions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, white onion, green onion, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Mix thoroughly using a rubber spatula or hand mixer.
2. Form the Cheese Ball: Transfer the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Gather the wrap around the mixture and twist the ends to shape it into a ball. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 3 days.
3. Prepare the Coating: Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble. Mix the bacon crumbles with the finely diced green onions in a bowl.
4. Roll and Serve: Remove the chilled cheese ball from the plastic wrap and roll it in the bacon and green onion mixture until evenly coated.
5. Presentation: Place the cheese ball on a serving tray (use parchment for easy cleanup) and surround it with crackers, raw veggies, or your favorite dippers.

Festive Goat Cheese Balls

These vibrant and flavorful goat cheese bites are the perfect addition to your holiday appetizer spread. With tangy goat cheese, creamy texture, and a festive cranberry-pistachio coating, they’ll be the first to disappear at any gathering!

• Servings: 30
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

Cheese Balls:

• 2 (4-ounce) packages goat cheese, at room temperature
• 2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature

Coating:

• ½ cup finely chopped dried cranberries
• ½ cup finely chopped pistachios

Directions

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix the goat cheese and cream cheese using a mixer until smooth and uniform. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes, or until the mixture is firm enough to handle.
2. Create the Coating: On a plate, combine the finely chopped cranberries and pistachios.
3. Shape and Coat: Scoop the cheese mixture into small balls (about 1 inch each) and roll each ball in the cranberry-pistachio mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Serve or Store: Arrange the cheese balls on a serving platter. If not serving immediately, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Christmas Ham Cheese Ball

A flavorful and easy-to-make ham cheese ball, perfect for any holiday gathering. Packed with savory ingredients and creamy texture, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2½ cups Mexican blend cheese, shredded
• 8 oz deli ham, thinly sliced and chopped
• ¾ cup pecans, chopped
• ⅛ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 green onions, chopped (green parts only)

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a stand mixer, add the cream cheese, shredded cheese, ham, pecans, sour cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and green onions. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
3. Shape the Cheese Ball: Transfer the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to shape it into a ball, then refrigerate until firm.
4. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish the cheese ball with additional chopped pecans if desired. Serve with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!

Keto Cheese Balls

These bite-sized keto-friendly cheese balls are bursting with flavor, featuring a creamy cheese base coated in a savory bacon, chive, and pecan mix. Perfect for low-carb snacking or appetizers at any gathering!

• Servings: 18
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Additional Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
• 2 (8oz/250g) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ cup fresh chives, chopped
• ⅓ cup pecans, chopped

Directions

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, blend cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Shape the Balls: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 18 small balls. Arrange them on a parchment-lined plate and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
3. Prepare the Coating: In a small bowl, combine the bacon, chives, and pecans.
4. Coat the Cheese Balls: Roll each cheese ball in the bacon mixture until fully coated.
5. Serve: Serve cold or at room temperature. Enjoy these keto-friendly delights as a satisfying snack or appetizer!

Mozzarella Cheese Ball Christmas Tree

A fun and festive Christmas appetizer that doubles as a cheesy centerpiece. Easy to make with pizza dough and mozzarella sticks, this pull-apart bread is a holiday hit!

Ingredients

Dough & Cheese:

• 1 lb. refrigerated pizza dough
• 7 mozzarella sticks, cut into 1” pieces

Toppings:

• Egg wash (1 egg whisked with 1 tbsp water)
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan
• 1 tbsp thinly sliced basil
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped rosemary

For Serving:

• Marinara sauce, warmed

Directions

1. Prepare Oven and Dough: Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. On a floured surface, divide the pizza dough into two pieces and roll each into a long rectangle. Cut dough into 2” squares (33 total).
2. Shape Cheese Balls: Wrap a dough square around each mozzarella piece, ensuring a tight seal. Arrange the dough balls seam-side down on the baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, with the balls touching each other.
3. Bake: Brush the dough balls with egg wash and bake until golden brown, about 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Add Toppings: While the bread bakes, whisk together melted butter, Parmesan, basil, parsley, and rosemary. Brush the mixture over the baked pizza balls while still warm.
5. Serve: Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Christmas Mini Cheese Ball Bites

Cheese Ball Bites make a terrific holiday appetizer. These mini cheese balls are quick to prepare and packed with festive flavors.

• Servings: 10
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 oz goat cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Pretzel sticks (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese Discs
   Slice the goat cheese into 8-10 discs and set aside.
2. Candy the Pecans
   Heat a skillet over medium heat. Melt butter, then add pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Cook, stirring often, for about 5 minutes. Spread onto parchment paper in a thin layer to cool.
3. Crush the Pecans
   Once cooled, crush the pecans by folding the parchment over and using a meat tenderizer or knife to finely chop.
4. Combine the Coating
   Mix the crushed pecans with chopped cranberries and parsley on a plate or cutting board.
5. Form the Cheese Balls
   Press each goat cheese disc into the coating mixture, then roll into a ball. Roll in the coating again to ensure full coverage. Repeat with all discs.
6. Serve
   Insert a pretzel stick into the top of each cheese ball if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Jack Skellington Dessert Cheese Ball

In love with The Nightmare Before Christmas? This Jack Skellington-inspired dessert cheese ball is frightfully delicious, making it the perfect centerpiece for your Halloween party.

• Yield: 24 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 6 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 6 ounces chocolate candy melts

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
   In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to blend cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add Sweet Ingredients
   Mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and mini chocolate chips until well combined.
3. Form the Ball
   Lay plastic wrap on a flat surface. Spoon the cheese mixture into the center and wrap it into a ball shape. Place the wrapped ball into a bowl to help maintain its shape.
4. Chill the Cheese Ball
   Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to firm up.
5. Decorate the Cheese Ball
   Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Cover the surface evenly with shredded coconut.
6. Add Jack’s Face
   Melt the chocolate candy melts according to the package instructions. Let cool slightly and transfer to a piping bag with a small hole. Pipe Jack Skellington’s iconic face onto the cheese ball.
7. Serve
   Place the decorated cheese ball on a serving plate and enjoy with cookies, crackers, or fruit!

Snowman Christmas Cheese Ball Recipe

A whimsical holiday appetizer shaped like a snowman, perfect for festive gatherings.

• Servings: 10
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 4 hours

Ingredients

• 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, at room temperature
• 3 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, at room temperature
• 1 oz package ranch seasoning mix
• 1 1/2 cups finely shredded jack cheese
• 1 baby carrot
• Whole peppercorns

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
   Allow cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar to come to room temperature. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and ranch seasoning mix until well blended.
2. Shape the Snowman
   Divide the cheese mixture in half. Form one smaller ball for the head and one larger ball for the body. Wrap each cheese ball in separate sheets of plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Assemble the Snowman
   Just before serving, roll the cheese balls in finely shredded jack cheese until fully coated. Place the larger ball on a serving plate as the body, then position the smaller ball on top as the head.
4. Decorate the Snowman
   Slice the tip off a baby carrot and press it into the smaller ball to create the snowman’s nose. Use whole peppercorns for the eyes, mouth, and buttons.
5. Serve
   Pair with crackers, breadsticks, or veggies for a festive and fun appetizer.

Pineapple Cheese Ball

A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, this cheese ball is an easy-to-make appetizer for any occasion.

• Servings: 8
• Ready In: 12 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 (8 oz) packages softened cream cheese
• 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
• 2 cups finely chopped pecans (divided)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 2 tablespoons grated onions or finely chopped green onions
• 2 teaspoons seasoning salt (e.g., Lawry’s)
• Crackers of choice, for serving

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients
   In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, drained pineapple, 1 cup of chopped pecans, bell pepper, onions, and seasoning salt until well combined.
2. Form the Ball
   Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up.
3. Add the Topping
   Before serving, roll the cheese ball in the remaining 1 cup of chopped pecans to coat it evenly.
4. Serve
   Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and surround with crackers of your choice. Enjoy!

Pizza Cheese Ball Christmas Tree

A fun pull-apart appetizer stuffed with mozzarella and pepperoni, served with seasoned tomato sauce for dipping.

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• PAM® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
• 1 can (8 oz) Hunt’s® Tomato Sauce with Basil, Garlic, and Oregano, divided
• 1 1/4 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni slices
• 1 pkg (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza crust dough
• 1 tablespoon Parkay® Original Spread, melted
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Rosemary sprigs (optional, for decoration)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare
   Preheat the oven to 425°F. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and set aside. In a medium bowl, mix 1/4 cup tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni.
2. Prepare the Dough
   Unroll the pizza dough and press it into a 15×9-inch rectangle. Cut the dough into 24 square pieces. Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the squares, placing it in the center of each. Pull the edges of the dough around the filling and pinch to seal. Place each piece seam-side down on the baking sheet in a tree shape, close together.
3. Bake the Tree
   Brush the top of the dough with melted Parkay. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Serve and Decorate
   Heat the remaining tomato sauce in a microwave-safe bowl on HIGH for 1 minute, stirring halfway. Serve pizza bites with the warm sauce for dipping. Decorate the tree with rosemary sprigs, if desired. Enjoy!

Santa Christmas Cheese Ball

A festive and fun ranch and cheddar cheese ball shaped like Santa, perfect for Christmas parties.

• Yield: 12 servings
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese
• 1 (1 oz) package ranch dressing mix
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 package whipped cream cheese
• 1 large red bell pepper
• 1 cup grape tomatoes
• 1 carrot
• 1 grape tomato
• Olives (for eyes)
• Round crackers (for serving)
• Pretzels (for mouth)
• Frosting bag and tip

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese Ball
   In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, cheddar cheese, and pecans until fully blended. Shape the mixture into a circular face and place it on a serving platter.
2. Assemble Santa’s Hat and Decorations
   Cut the red bell pepper in half, clean it out, and use one half as Santa’s hat. Arrange grape tomatoes around the bottom of the face to resemble Santa’s suit.
3. Add Whipped Cream Cheese Details
   Transfer whipped cream cheese to a frosting bag fitted with a tip. Pipe cream cheese to create the fuzzy trim around Santa’s hat, his eyebrows, and his beard.
4. Create Santa’s Face
   Use a halved grape tomato for rosy cheeks, a carrot for the nose, olives for the eyes, and a pretzel for the mouth.
5. Serve and Garnish
   Refrigerate until ready to serve. Garnish with crackers and serve with a variety of dippers. Enjoy!

Vegan Christmas Cheese Ball

A creamy, flavorful vegan cheese ball perfect for holiday gatherings. This dairy-free appetizer is packed with garlic and herb goodness and rolled in a festive mix of pecans and cranberries.

• Yield: 12 servings
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw cashews
• 1 (8 oz) package vegan cream cheese (e.g., Daiya)
• ¼ cup canned full-fat coconut milk
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
• ¾ teaspoon garlic salt
• ¾ teaspoon granulated onion
• 1 tablespoon green onions, finely chopped (green parts only)
• ½ cup pecans, finely chopped
• ¼ cup dried cranberries or dried cherries, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for tanginess)
• ½ teaspoon each of dried dill, tarragon, and thyme (for additional herb flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cashews
   Boil the cashews in water for 10 minutes. Drain and allow to cool slightly.
2. Make the Cheese Base
   In a food processor, blend the cashews, vegan cream cheese, coconut milk, garlic salt, black pepper, granulated garlic, and granulated onion until smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure a creamy consistency.
3. Mix the Ingredients
   Transfer the cheese mixture to a bowl and stir in the chopped green onions.
4. Shape the Cheese Ball
   Lay a piece of plastic wrap on your counter or over a small bowl. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the center of the wrap and gather the corners to form a rough ball shape. Twist the top to secure and place in a bowl for stability.
5. Chill the Cheese Ball
   Refrigerate for 4–6 hours (or overnight for better flavor) or freeze for 1 hour to firm it up.
6. Prepare the Coating
   Combine the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and parsley on a plate or shallow bowl.
7. Roll and Serve
   Unwrap the cheese ball and adjust its shape if needed. Roll it in the pecan and cranberry mixture until fully coated. Serve with crackers, veggies, or your favorite dippers. Enjoy!

Holiday Cheese Ball Wreath

A festive and flavorful holiday appetizer shaped like a wreath, perfect for parties. Customize with your favorite cheese blend and serve with crackers or veggies.

• Yield: 16 to 20 servings
• Total Time: 1 hr 15 min (includes chilling time)
• Active Time: 15 min

Ingredients

• 1 pound cream cheese, at room temperature
• 2 cups shredded firm cheese (e.g., Cheddar, pepper Jack, or Colby)
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup pickled piquante peppers (e.g., Peppadews), finely chopped
• ½ cup fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh chives
• Crackers, sliced bread, or crudités, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bundt Pan
   Line the inside of a 6-cup Bundt pan with plastic wrap for easy removal.
2. Make the Cheese Mixture
   In a food processor, blend the cream cheese, shredded cheese, Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon salt, and a few grinds of pepper until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl and fold in all but 2 tablespoons of the chopped peppers.
3. Shape the Wreath
   Spoon the cheese mixture into the prepared Bundt pan, pressing it down to pack tightly. Spread it evenly and cover with plastic wrap. Alternatively, form the cheese mixture into a ball and wrap tightly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 2 days.
4. Decorate the Wreath
   Uncover and invert the cheese mold onto a serving platter (or unwrap the ball and place it on the platter). Sprinkle with chopped chives and parsley to coat the wreath entirely. Garnish with the reserved 2 tablespoons of peppers.
5. Serve
   Pair the cheese ball wreath with crackers, sliced bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping. Enjoy!