A Fun Christmas Appetizer Recipe
This eye catching Christmas tree cheese ball is decorated with plenty of earthy green minced fresh parsley, dotted with tiny red tomatoes and yellow bell pepper pieces, its swirled with a ribbon of pine nuts, then finished with a vibrant golden bell pepper star practically shining atop. It’s a holiday classic with a sophisticated upgrade thanks to its enhancements of herby flavors and fresh vegetables (or technically fruits), the welcomed bold white cheddar goodness, a pine nut finish, and its impressive unique appearance. No boring typical rounded shape plus pecan coating here. And even though it’s quite large this savory treat will be devoured in no time. This charming centerpiece will be a highlight of your gathering and a new striking way you’ll want to make the holiday cheese ball every year!
Christmas Tree Cheese Ball Recipe Ingredients and Substitutes
Cream cheese: I recommend Philadelphia brand as it has a great flavor and consistency, not wet or runny. White cheddar: In a pinch you could just use yellow (or what looks orange) sharp cheddar cheddar. Use a soft cheddar not the more firm blocks from the deli. Green onions: Only use the greens of the onions not the harsher, crunchier white portions. Dried dill: Fresh dill will work great too, just use 1 Tbsp. Garlic powder: For bolder flavor you could use 1 1/2 tsp fresh garlic just mince it very fine. Grape tomatoes: The tiny tomatoes aren’t always available, if so you can just use chopped red bell pepper in it’s place. Pretzel rod: This is optional. It just adds a little extra stability to the tree so you can make it nice and tall. Fresh parsley: I use flat leaf parsley (not curly) here for best flavor and rich green appearance. Yellow bell pepper: This is used for both the “lights” and “star” of the tree. Pine nuts: If preferred you could use sliced almonds in their place. Crackers: These are used for serving. I just like to serve with the extra crisp mini wheat cracker squares.
How to Make a Christmas Tree Cheese Ball
Here’s a summary of the steps to make it (see full recipe below):
Storage
This cheese ball should be stored in fridge in an airtight container. It shouldn’t sit at room temperature longer than two hours for food safety. It will keep in the fridge for about 3 days, though it’s appearance will be best the first day.
Helpful Tips for the Best Cheese Ball
Be sure to chill mixture before you attempt to shape into a cone otherwise it will be too sticky to work with and won’t hold a shape as well. If time allows let the cheese ball rest in the fridge for a few hours for flavors to meld and cheddar cheese to soften. Try using half sharp cheddar and half Havarti for another tasty option. If you want a softer cheese ball let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. Another option is to warm individual leftover servings on a microwave safe dish for 10 seconds at 50 percent power to soften slightly.
More Christmas Tree Holiday Recipes to Try
Caprese Christmas Tree Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board Christmas Tree Cookies Cut Out Sugar Cookies Rice Krisipies Christmas Trees
