Save Charming, bite-shaped cheese balls shaped like acorns, coated with nuts and herbs& perfect for autumn gatherings and festive entertaining.
This recipe quickly became a staple at our fall parties as everyone loved the unique acorn shape and flavorful coating.
Ingredients
- Cheese Mixture: 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened, 120 g (1 cup) sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded, 2 tablespoons chives, finely chopped, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, Pinch of salt
- Coating & Decoration: 60 g (1/2 cup) finely chopped toasted pecans, 60 g (1/2 cup) finely chopped parsley or fresh dill, 24 mini pretzel sticks, 24 small rosemary leaves (optional, for acorn stems)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, chives, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Step 2:
- Scoop out heaping teaspoons of the cheese mixture and roll them into small oval or acorn shapes using your hands.
- Step 3:
- Roll the top half of each cheese ball in the chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere. Roll the bottom half in parsley or dill for contrast.
- Step 4:
- Insert a mini pretzel stick into the top of each cheese ball to resemble an acorn stem. Add a rosemary leaf if desired.
- Step 5:
- Arrange acorn cheese balls on a serving platter. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving for best texture.
Save These bite-sized acorn cheese balls always bring smiles at our family gatherings, creating warm and joyful memories.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture. Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred. Serve with assorted crackers or sliced vegetables. Acorn cheese balls can be made up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, hand mixer or sturdy spoon, measuring spoons and cups, small ice cream scoop or tablespoon (optional), knife and cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, cheddar) and tree nuts (pecans). Contains gluten if using regular pretzel sticks& use gluten-free pretzels for a GF option. Always check labels for potential allergens.
Save These charming bites capture the essence of fall perfectly and are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Recipe Questions
- → What cheeses are used in these acorn bites?
The bites combine softened cream cheese and finely shredded sharp cheddar for a rich, creamy texture.
- → How do you shape the cheese balls?
Scoop the cheese mixture into heaping teaspoons, then roll into small oval or acorn shapes by hand.
- → What nuts are recommended for coating?
Finely chopped toasted pecans are used, but walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives.
- → Can these bites accommodate dietary restrictions?
They are vegetarian and can be gluten-free if paired with gluten-free pretzel sticks.
- → What adds the acorn stem effect?
Mini pretzel sticks are inserted at the top of each bite, with an optional rosemary leaf for added detail.
- → How far in advance can these be prepared?
They can be made up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated to maintain freshness.