Pigs In A Blanket with Mayo-Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun, bite-sized appetizer that always gets rave reviews, these Cheese Ball Bites are an absolute winner. I love this recipe because it combines creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors in a perfectly portable little package that’s just begging to be eaten. Whether you’re hosting a game day, a casual get-together, or just wanting to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe works like a charm every time.

When I first tried making these Cheese Ball Bites, I was a bit worried about the bacon and pecan coating—would it stick? Turns out, the combo is pretty forgiving, and the result is irresistible crunchy bits on the outside with a super creamy center. If you’re into that contrast of textures and flavors, you’re going to want to make these regularly!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is delightfully simple, relying on cream cheese and sharp cheddar for richness, balanced by smoky bacon and crunchy pecans. I always recommend purchasing high-quality cream cheese for the creamiest texture.

• Cream cheese: Softened to room temperature for easy mixing and smooth texture.
• Shredded cheddar: Sharp cheddar works best for maximum flavor kick.
• Garlic powder: Adds a hint of savory depth without overpowering.
• Paprika: Gives a mild smokiness and a lovely color.
• Kosher salt: Season according to your taste preference.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and freshness.
• Bacon: Cooked crispy, then chopped for the coating.
• Roasted salted pecans: Finely chopped for crunch and a nutty note.
• Fresh chives: Chopped for a mild onion flavor and vibrant color.
• Pretzel sticks: Used as fun, edible handles for each bite.

Variations

I love how versatile these Cheese Ball Bites are. Over time, I’ve played around with the mix-ins and coatings to suit whatever mood I’m in. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!

• Spicy kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne or some finely diced jalapeños gives these bites a fun heat that my friends adore.
• Herb swap: Try fresh dill or parsley instead of chives for a different herbaceous note.
• Nut alternatives: Pecans can be swapped for walnuts or almonds, depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
• Bacon substitute: For a vegetarian version, crispy smoked tempeh bacon works surprisingly well.

How to Make Pigs In A Blanket with Mayo-Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Mix the cheese and seasonings

Start by combining softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. I use a sturdy spoon or even clean hands to get everything nicely blended. Make sure the cream cheese is really soft—if it’s chilled, it won’t mix as smoothly, and you’ll struggle later.

Step 2: Form the cheese balls and chill

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 18 equal-sized balls, about an inch each. Place them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then pop them into the fridge for at least an hour. Chilling is crucial because it helps them firm up so they won’t fall apart as you roll them in the bacon-nut coating.

Step 3: Cook and chop bacon

While the cheese balls firm up, cook the bacon in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy—usually around 8 minutes. Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease, then finely chop. Trust me, crispy bacon brings that umami punch you won’t want to skip.

Step 4: Prepare the coating mixture

In a shallow bowl, mix together the crispy bacon, chopped pecans, and fresh chives. This coating gives every bite a perfect crunch and fresh note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese inside.

Step 5: Roll cheese balls in coating and add pretzel sticks

Take the chilled cheese balls and gently roll each one in the bacon-pecan mixture until they’re fully coated. Then, insert a pretzel stick into each ball, which turns these bites into super cute handheld snacks. Let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving – it really brings out the flavors.

How to Serve Pigs In A Blanket with Mayo-Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a few extra fresh chives or finely chopped parsley over the platter for color and an herby pop. A little paprika dusted on top also gives a subtle smoky finish that’s downright pretty.

Side Dishes

Pair these bites with crisp veggies and ranch dip or alongside a bright tomato salsa for contrast. I often serve with a big bowl of mixed nuts and olives for variety at casual parties.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I arrange these Cheese Ball Bites on a festive wooden board surrounded by colorful crackers and greenery sprigs. You can also stand the bites up in a shallow dish with the pretzel sticks facing up—it makes them easy to grab and adds a quirky, playful vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheese Ball Bites store amazingly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend keeping the coating intact but you can always freshen them up by rolling again if things get a bit soft.

Freezing

While I usually recommend enjoying these fresh, you can freeze the formed cheese balls before coating. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling in the bacon-pecan mix. This trick helps with prep if you’re hosting larger events.

Reheating

These bites are best served at room temperature. If you want to warm them slightly, a brief 5-8 second zap in the microwave works wonders, but be careful not to melt the cheese completely.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

These Cheese Ball Bites have become my go-to party starter because they’re easy, flavorful, and always disappear fast. I love how little effort it takes to create something that looks impressive and tastes amazing. If you want a snack that’s both comforting and a bit special, give this recipe a try—you’ll quickly see why my family goes crazy for it every time!

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