Snowman Cheese Ball is a playful, festive twist on a classic cheese ball, perfect for holiday parties, gatherings, or as a fun addition to your Christmas spread. This adorable snowman-shaped appetizer combines cream cheese, cheddar, and a blend of savory seasonings, and is decorated to look like a snowman! Serve with crackers, veggies, or bread for a delicious and eye-catching treat.
Ingredients
For the Cheese Ball:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Snowman Decoration:
- 1 small carrot, sliced (for the nose)
- 2-3 black olives (for the eyes and buttons)
- 1 small bell pepper or red chili pepper (for the scarf)
- Pretzel sticks or small breadsticks (for arms)
- Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Make the Cheese Ball:
- Mix the Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Use a hand mixer or spatula to mix until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth. - Form the Snowman Shape:
Divide the cheese mixture into three portions: one large ball (for the body), one medium ball (for the torso), and one small ball (for the head). Shape each portion into a smooth ball using your hands. - Stack the Balls:
Gently stack the balls on a serving plate, with the smallest one on top (for the head), the medium ball below it (for the torso), and the largest ball on the bottom (for the body). Press them together slightly to help them stay in place.
Decorate the Snowman:
- Add the Eyes and Buttons:
Slice the black olives into small rounds. Place two olive slices on the snowman’s head for eyes and a few slices down the front of the torso for buttons. - Make the Nose:
Cut the carrot into a small triangle or cone shape and place it in the center of the snowman’s face as the nose. - Add the Scarf:
Slice a small piece of bell pepper or red chili pepper into thin strips and wrap them around the snowman’s neck to form a scarf. - Add the Arms:
Insert pretzel sticks or small breadsticks into the sides of the large snowman ball to create the arms. - Garnish:
If desired, garnish the base with fresh parsley or chives to add a little greenery and complete the festive look.
Serve:
- Chill the snowman cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to help it firm up.
- Serve with crackers, pretzels, vegetable sticks, or slices of baguette.
This Snowman Cheese Ball will be the hit of your holiday party, combining delicious flavors with a festive, fun presentation!