This fun cheeseball wreath is a festive treat that’s easy to make! It’s packed with cream cheese and your choice of tasty mix-ins, all shaped into a beautiful wreath.
Honestly, it’s perfect for parties! You can customize it with your favorite herbs and spices. I love serving it with crackers—everyone goes back for more! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is a must-have! I prefer using full-fat cream cheese for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese works well too.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice burst of flavor. Feel free to substitute with mild cheddar or even pepper jack if you want a bit of heat.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley, chives, and dill are my go-tos. But you can experiment with other herbs like basil or cilantro if you wish!
Pecans or Sesame Seeds: I love the crunch of pecans, but you could easily use walnuts or even finely crushed crackers for a different flavor.
How Do I Shape the Cheeseballs Perfectly?
Shaping your cheeseballs can be tricky. Here’s how to do it easily:
- Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to ensure uniform size. This keeps them looking neat on the platter!
- Wet your hands slightly with water before rolling if the mixture sticks. This makes it easier to shape.
- Chill the cheeseballs for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps them firm up and hold their shape better.
How to Make a Festive Cheeseball Wreath
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Herbed Cream Cheese Balls:
- 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheddar Cheeseballs:
- 16 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed toasted pecans or sesame seeds (for coating)
Garnishes and Extras:
- Fresh kale or other leafy greens (for plating)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Fresh whole cranberries
- Cubed extra sharp cheddar cheese
- Crispy pita chips or crackers (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes for preparation. You’ll need an additional 30 minutes to chill the cheeseballs before assembling the wreath. So in total, plan for about 1 hour! Perfect for prepping ahead of your gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Herbed Cream Cheese Balls:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives, dill, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is nicely blended. Using a small scoop or spoon, shape the mixture into about 8 small balls. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate while you make the cheddar balls.
2. Prepare the Cheddar Cheeseballs:
In another bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a bit more salt and pepper until thoroughly combined. Form this mixture into about 12 medium-sized balls, then roll each ball in crushed toasted pecans or sesame seeds to coat. This adds a delicious crunch!
3. Assemble the Wreath:
On a large serving platter, arrange a bed of fresh kale or other leafy greens to create a beautiful base. Place the cheddar cheeseballs around the outer edge of the platter to form the main circle of your wreath. In the center, add the herbed cream cheese balls in a smaller circle. Fill the spaces with fresh whole cranberries for pops of color and garnish with sprigs of rosemary for a nice holiday touch. You can also tuck cubed cheddar and pita chips here and there for extra flair!
4. Serve:
Keep the wreath chilled until you’re ready to serve. It pairs wonderfully with an array of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies. This cheeseball wreath not only tastes fantastic but also makes for a stunning centerpiece at any holiday gathering!
Enjoy your delicious Cheeseball Wreath!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used as a substitute, but keep in mind that it may alter the creaminess and texture slightly. For the best results, try to stick with a cream cheese that has a similar fat content.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs instead. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about a third of the amount called for in the recipe. For example, use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley instead of 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the cheeseballs and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before assembly. Just assemble the wreath right before serving for the best presentation.