Description
A festive and flavorful Pomegranate White Cheddar Cheese Ball that combines creamy cream cheese with sharp white cheddar, enhanced by garlic, onion powder, fresh parsley, and green onions. Coated with juicy pomegranate arils and crunchy pecans, this no-cook appetizer is perfect for holiday gatherings or parties, served with crackers or sliced vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Ball:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
Topping and Serving:
- 1/2 cup pomegranate arils
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Crackers or sliced vegetables, for serving
Instructions
- Mix Cheese Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded white cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, fresh parsley, and green onions. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Shape Cheese Ball: Using your hands or a spatula, shape the cheese mixture into a round ball, ensuring it is even and compact.
- Chill: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up for easier handling and better flavor melding.
- Add Toppings: Just before serving, unwrap the cheese ball. Gently press the pomegranate arils and chopped pecans evenly onto the surface to coat the outside completely.
- Serve: Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and serve with crackers or sliced vegetables for dipping and spreading.
Notes
- For a nut-free option, omit the chopped pecans.
- Prepare the cheese ball up to 1 day ahead and keep refrigerated to save time.
- Add pomegranate arils right before serving to maintain their freshness and juiciness.
