Pin It A whimsical and festive appetizer featuring three creamy cheese balls shaped and decorated as cheerful snowmen—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This trio is always a crowd-pleaser at family holidays and gatherings, bringing smiles and delicious flavors together.
Ingredients
- Cheese Mixture: 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened, 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 green onions finely chopped, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, salt to taste
- Decorations: 12–15 whole black peppercorns (for eyes/buttons), 3 small carrot sticks (for noses), 1/2 red bell pepper sliced into strips (for scarves), 3 thin pretzel sticks (for arms), fresh parsley or dill sprigs optional (for hats/scarves), crackers and fresh vegetables for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl combine cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Step 2:
- Divide the mixture into three portions one large (for the base), one medium (for the middle), and one small (for the head) for each snowman. Roll each portion into smooth balls.
- Step 3:
- On a serving platter stack the cheese balls in snowman shapes (largest at the bottom, smallest on top).
- Step 4:
- Decorate each snowman use peppercorns for eyes and buttons, carrot sticks for noses, bell pepper strips for scarves, and pretzel sticks for arms. Add parsley or dill for extra flair if desired.
- Step 5:
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up before serving.
- Step 6:
- Serve with crackers and fresh vegetables.
Pin It This recipe brings my family together every holiday season, filling the room with laughter and delicious smells.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, rubber spatula or spoon, serving platter, small knife
Allergen Information
Contains Milk/Dairy (cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan). May contain Gluten (if served with regular crackers use gluten-free options as needed). Contains Wheat (pretzel arms omit or substitute for gluten-free option if needed). Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving cheese ball only approx Calories 180, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 2 g, Protein 9 g
Pin It Enjoy creating these festive treats that bring both fun and flavor to your holiday table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cheeses are used for the cheese ball trio?
The trio combines cream cheese, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for creamy texture and rich flavor.
- → How can the cheese balls be decorated?
Use whole peppercorns for eyes and buttons, carrot sticks for noses, bell pepper strips as scarves, and pretzel sticks for arms.
- → Can these cheese balls be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, shape and decorate the cheese balls, cover loosely, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
It can be gluten-free if served with gluten-free crackers or fresh vegetables, as pretzels contain gluten.
- → How long should the cheese balls chill before serving?
Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour to firm up the cheese balls before serving.