Description
Mini Cheese Balls are bite-sized, creamy cheese snacks coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust, perfect for parties, game nights, or casual gatherings. Combining cream cheese, sharp cheddar, parmesan, and bold seasonings, these easy-to-make appetizers deliver a deliciously crunchy texture with a smooth, cheesy center. Customizable and kid-friendly, they can be baked or fried for a golden finish.
Ingredients
Cheeses and Dairy
- Cream Cheese – 8 oz (softened)
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – 1 cup grated
- Parmesan Cheese – 1/2 cup grated
- Butter or Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons (for coating)
Seasonings and Herbs
- Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon
- Fresh Herbs (such as parsley or chives) – 2 tablespoons chopped
- Optional Spices (paprika or chili flakes) – 1/2 teaspoon
Coating
- Breadcrumbs – 1 cup (regular or gluten-free)
Optional Variations
- Finely diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper – 1 teaspoon (for spicy kick)
- Fresh basil, dill, or rosemary – 1 tablespoon (herb-infused)
- Almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers – substitute for breadcrumbs if gluten-free
- Mozzarella or pepper jack cheese – up to 1/2 cup (for extra cheesiness)
- Crispy bacon bits – 1/4 cup (for bacon lover’s variation)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese with grated sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Add garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs, and any optional spices or variations. Mix thoroughly until fully blended and smooth.
- Shape the Balls: Using a tablespoon or small scoop, portion out the cheese mixture and roll each portion between your palms to form uniform mini balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Coat the Cheese Balls: Place breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Lightly brush or spray each mini cheese ball with olive oil or melted butter to help the breadcrumbs adhere, then roll each ball in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Chill to Set: Arrange the coated cheese balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. This firms them up and ensures they hold their shape during cooking.
- Cook Until Golden: Bake the chilled balls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or fry them in hot oil until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Notes
- Soften cream cheese to room temperature before mixing for smoother texture and easier blending.
- Use a small cookie scoop for even-sized balls to ensure consistent cooking.
- Do not skip the chilling step to prevent the balls from melting or losing shape while cooking.
- For extra crunch, double coat by dipping the balls again in butter and breadcrumbs before cooking.
- If frying, drain excess oil by placing cooked cheese balls on paper towels to avoid sogginess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 mini cheese balls
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg