Make Your Cheese Ball The Talk Of The Party

When you go to a gathering and see a table full of snacks, what’s the first thing you go for? Probably the lavish-looking cheese ball.  A party just isn’t a party without one! There are so many different recipes for the perfect appetizer, so how are you supposed to know the best way to go about it? Here are a few tips to keep in mind next time it’s up to you to bring the cheese ball:

“Adding cream cheese will make your cheese ball more malleable.”

Pick your base
A cheese ball is only as good as the cheese. A great way to make your appetizer substantial, yet easy to work with, is to mix your stronger cheeses with cream cheese. The flavor is mild enough to not take away from the more pungent ones and makes the mixture more malleable.

Add some flavor
When you’re making a cheese ball, you’re likely not opting for top-of-the-line varieties of cheese, so you don’t have to feel bad about masking the flavor with some herbs and spices. In fact, it’s encouraged!  If you’re making a classic cheddar ball, try adding some pressed or sauteed garlic, green onions, and herbs de Provence to your cheese mix before shaping it. To get a little more experimental, though, try following a theme. Add some taco seasoning or cumin to a cheese ball made with pepper jack cheese and serve alongside sliced peppers.

Don’t be boring
Crackers? Pretzels? These ingredients are too obvious. Culinary academy students can be a little more inventive than that! Try loading the platter with sliced fruit, especially if you’re opting for a ball made of a tangy cheese like bleu. Dried fruits, like dates or figs, are also an elegant addition. While this may seem out of place at a party for the big game, it’ll be perfect for a lavish dinner party! Try toasting some baguette slices as well, so guests can layer the cheese and fruit on top of the bread.

Add some flair
Whether you want to add bacon to a savory cheese ball or dried cranberries to a sweeter one, the best way to complete your appetizer is to deck it out with some additional flavor. If you’re opting for nuts, though, wait until just before your party to decorate your cheese ball, so they maintain their texture.

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