Get in the holiday spirit with this Christmas cheeseball recipe. The perfect blend of creamy, savory goodness that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
An enticing mix of cream cheese, spices, and cheddar shaped into a charming Christmas tree. It is perfect in mini form with our charcuterie chalet or charcuterTREE. Learn how to make a charcuterie tree here.
Unlike traditional cheeseballs, this recipe features lemon juice, bringing a refreshing zest that cuts through the richness. Plus, the choice between baby shrimp and crumbled bacon allows you to cater to different palates.
And the best part is the vibrant parsley or cilantro, creating a visual captivating centerpiece. As do the pomegranate seeds. Similar to our snowman cheeseball, this appetizer is a WOW piece for sure!
While I enjoy preparing main dishes, I love crafting festive appetizers such as this one or our Christmas charcuterie board. For Thanksgiving, my go-to appetizers include the inviting fall charcuterie board and the festive Thanksgiving turkey charcuterie board.
You can even pair this cheeseball with a charcuterie board if you're serving a large crowd. The crackers and veggies can be used to dig into this creamy appetizer as well as the dips and spreads on the charcuterie.
Why you'll love this easy cheeseball
- You can make this recipe in advance, saving you precious time in the kitchen during the busy holidays.
- It pairs well with a variety of different dippables, making it great for any festive occasion.
- The rich blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and a hint of lemon creates the perfect flavor for any palate.
- It's guaranteed to make a great centerpiece, impressing your guests with minimal effort.
The ingredients
- Cream cheese - Provides a creamy foundation with a mild tanginess that goes well with the other flavors. Full fat cream cheese works best.
- Cheddar - With a bold, savory profiles, cheddar compliments the creaminess perfectly.
- Lemon juice - The subtle citrusy note brightens up the overall flavor profile.
- Parsley or cilantro - While these herbs do add the green Christmas tree element, they also compliment the richness of the cheese.
- Spices - Onion, garlic, and salt ensure a well-balance and flavorful experience.
- Shrimp or bacon - Baby shrimp offer a delicate seafood flavor while bacon bits will add a smoky flavor.
Is this cheeseball gluten free?
Yes, this Christmas cheeseball is naturally gluten-free. Making it a great option for those with celiac disease or other gluten allergies.
How to make a Christmas Cheeseball
Step 1: Shape
Mix everything except parsley flakes and pomegranate seeds into a large bowl. Once combined, shape into a Christmas tree/cone.
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Step 2: Roll
Evenly roll the cheese cone into parsley or cilantro until covered. The tree should be majority green.
Step 3: Chill
Chill the cheese ball in the fridge overnight.
Step 4: Decorate
Using a yellow cheddar cheese, cut a small star out for the topper. Decorate the rest of the tree with pomegranate seeds.
Pro tip: Use a large plate or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to roll the cheeseball in parsley.
Tips for the best cheeseball
- Experiment with different toppings like nuts, herbs, or dried fruit for added flair.
- For a picture perfect presentation, roll the cheeseball evenly in parsley or cilantro.
- Refrigerating overnight is the best way for the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Take out of the fridge 10 minutes before serving to ensure the right texture.
Storage
Storing - You can keep leftover cheeseball in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend storing in an airtight container or wrapping in plastic wrap to ensure freshness.
Freezing - I do not recommend freezing this recipe as the taste and texture will change.
Other recipes you'll love
- Our festive pancake spaghetti for an Elf night or Christmas Oreo truffles for fun
- Christmas reindeer chex mix and Christmas popcorn for a simple holiday snack
- These frosted ginger cookies and white chocolate Christmas crack are a great sweet treat
- For something sweet, try making a homemade gingerbread house with gingerbread house frosting.
Christmas Cheese Ball
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon onion chopped finely
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoon chives or green onions
- 1/4 cup parsley or shredded cilantro
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 4 ounces can baby shrimp drained or crumbled cooked bacon
- 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds
Instructions
- Mix everything together in a large bowl
- Shape the cheeseball into a cone/Christmas tree
- Roll the cheese ball into parsley flakes or shredded cilantro until completely covered
- Refrigerate overnight
- Remove from the refrigerator at least 10 minutes before serving
- Cut out a star shape with yellow cheddar for the topper and "decorate" with pomegranate arils like ornaments placed around the tree.
Notes
- Experiment with different toppings like nuts, herbs, or dried fruit for added flair.
- For a picture perfect presentation, roll the cheeseball evenly in parsley or cilantro.
- Refrigerating overnight is the best way for the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Take out of the fridge 10 minutes before serving to ensure the right texture.
Marnie says
Love that this is tasty and looks like art! I’m a fan of your original cheeseball and I know this wont disappoint. Can’t wait to wow family this year with this recipe 🤤