Can I freeze a cheese ball?

Yes — wrap in plastic, then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

How long can a cheese ball sit out?

For food safety, no more than 2 hours at room temperature.

A cream cheese base paired with sharp cheddar, gouda, or a blend for depth.

Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based shredded cheese for a similar texture.

Yes — mascarpone, ricotta, or goat cheese offer a different but delicious result.

Creamy cheese ball recipe with cheddar, herbs, and savory mix-ins. Perfect make-ahead appetizer for parties or holidays.

Scale

450 g cream cheese, softened
200 g shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or blue cheese)
1–2 tsp seasonings & herbs (garlic powder, dried dill, parsley, paprika, or chives)
½–1 cup mix-ins (dried cranberries, diced jalapeno, pineapple chunks, or chopped bacon)
½–1 cup coatings (chopped nuts, crumbled bacon, fresh herbs, or crushed crackers)

Base mix: In a large mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese and your chosen shredded cheese until smooth and well-combined.
Flavor layer: Stir in seasonings, dried beef, herbs, or flavor-boosting mix-ins like cranberries, jalapenos, or pineapple.
Shape: Transfer mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape into a ball, log, or seasonal design such as a pumpkin or Christmas tree.
Coat: Roll the shaped cheese ball in your chosen coating — nuts, bacon bits, herbs, or crushed crackers — until evenly covered.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours to firm and allow flavors to meld.
Serve: Place on a serving plate with crackers, bread slices, or crisp veggie sticks.

For a cheese ball recipe without cream cheese, try mascarpone or goat cheese.
For nut-free, use herbs or toasted breadcrumbs for coating.
Swap pineapple for diced apple or apricot to vary sweetness.
Dairy-free cream cheese works for vegan versions; low-fat cream cheese can be used but will yield a softer texture.

Keywords: cheese ball recipe