Description
The “Dill Pickle Cheddar Delight” is a fusion of creamy textures and tangy flavors, making it an irresistible appetizer perfect for any party or gathering. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and crisp dill pickles wrapped in a creamy base offers a delightful taste experience that promises to captivate your guests’ palates. Ideal for serving with a variety of crackers, this cheese ball is as versatile as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chopped dill pickles
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill
- 1 cup shredded or chopped cheddar cheese (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill (for coating)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for coating)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Mix the Base
Using a hand mixer, blend the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and fluffy, taking about 1-2 minutes.
2. Add Flavorings
Fold in the shredded cheddar, chopped pickles, and fresh dill into the cream cheese mixture.
3. Prepare for Chilling
Lay two strips of plastic wrap in an X shape on a flat surface. Scoop the cream cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Bring the edges of the plastic wrap together and twist to form the mixture into a ball shape. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
4. Coat the Cheese Ball
Spread the additional shredded cheddar, fresh dill, and lemon zest on a flat surface. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the toppings, pressing gently to coat evenly.
5. Serve
Place the prepared cheese ball on a serving platter and serve with an assortment of crackers.
Servings & Preparation Time
- Servings: 8-10
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time (including chilling): Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes
Tips for Storage & Reheating
This cheese ball can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient option for entertaining. Here are some tips for storage and serving:
- Storage: The cheese ball can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Ensure it is wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Serving: For the best flavor and texture, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving after it has been refrigerated.
Conclusion
The “Dill Pickle Cheddar Delight” cheese ball is a flavorful and crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the creamy richness of cheese with the bold tang of dill pickles. Whether you’re hosting a large party or a small get-together, this cheese ball makes a perfect centerpiece for your snack table. Its easy preparation and appealing flavor profile make it an essential recipe for every entertainer’s repertoire.
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Dill Pickle Cheddar Delight
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
Description
The “Dill Pickle Cheddar Delight” is a fusion of creamy textures and tangy flavors, making it an irresistible appetizer perfect for any party or gathering. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and crisp dill pickles wrapped in a creamy base offers a delightful taste experience that promises to captivate your guests’ palates. Ideal for serving with a variety of crackers, this cheese ball is as versatile as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chopped dill pickles
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill
- 1 cup shredded or chopped cheddar cheese (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill (for coating)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for coating)
Instructions
- Mix the Base Using a hand mixer, blend the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and fluffy, taking about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Flavorings Fold in the shredded cheddar, chopped pickles, and fresh dill into the cream cheese mixture.
- Prepare for Chilling Lay two strips of plastic wrap in an X shape on a flat surface. Scoop the cream cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Bring the edges of the plastic wrap together and twist to form the mixture into a ball shape. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Coat the Cheese Ball Spread the additional shredded cheddar, fresh dill, and lemon zest on a flat surface. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the toppings, pressing gently to coat evenly.
- Serve Place the prepared cheese ball on a serving platter and serve with an assortment of crackers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes