Description
This festive Christmas Tree Cheeseball is a delightful and creamy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Made with a blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and savory seasonings, it is shaped like a Christmas tree and garnished with cherry tomatoes, fresh parsley, sliced almonds, and a star-shaped yellow pepper for a cheerful presentation. Served with assorted crackers and pretzels, this cheeseball is both delicious and visually appealing for your holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups finely shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1 jar (4 ounces) diced pimientos, drained
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Garnish
- 12 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1 yellow pepper, chopped and cut into a star shape
- Assorted crackers and pretzels for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. Slowly add the finely shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, drained diced pimientos, melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Continue beating until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and evenly distributed.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and refrigerate the mixture for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up, making it easier to shape.
- Shape the Christmas Tree: Remove the chilled cheese mixture from the refrigerator. Using your hands, roll and press the mixture into the shape of a Christmas tree on a serving platter or board. Take your time to mold it evenly and create the classic triangular tree shape.
- Garnish the Cheeseball: Decorate the shaped cheeseball starting by pressing halved cherry tomatoes evenly over the surface, mimicking ornaments. Follow by sprinkling the finely chopped fresh parsley to add a green foliage effect. Next, scatter sliced almonds to add texture and a nutty flavor. Finally, place the star-shaped yellow pepper at the top of the tree for the perfect festive touch.
- Serve: Arrange an assortment of crackers and pretzels around the cheeseball for guests to enjoy as dippers. Serve immediately or keep chilled until ready to serve.
Notes
- For best results, soften cream cheese at room temperature before mixing.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced flavor.
- Chill the mixture longer if you want firmer cheese for easier shaping.
- Try adding other garnishes like chopped nuts or sliced olives to customize appearance and flavor.
- This cheeseball can be made a day ahead; just keep wrapped tightly in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice with crackers (approx. 100g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
