Rudolph Christmas Cheese Ball Recipe

Introduction

The Rudolph Christmas Cheese Ball is a festive and fun appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Creamy, cheesy, and decorated to look like the beloved reindeer, it’s sure to be a hit on any party table.

Ingredients

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup crushed pecans or walnuts
• 2 small pretzels (for antlers)
• 2 candy eyes (or chocolate chips)
• 1 red candy (like a cherry, red M&M, or gumdrop for Rudolph’s nose)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined using a spoon or hand mixer.
2. Step 2: Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Wrap it tightly and shape it into a ball with your hands. Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours until firm.
3. Step 3: Once firm, remove the cheese ball from the plastic wrap and roll it in crushed pecans or walnuts, pressing gently to coat evenly.
4. Step 4: Place the cheese ball on a serving platter. Insert two small pretzels at the top for Rudolph’s antlers. Gently press in the candy eyes and red candy nose to create Rudolph’s face.
5. Step 5: Serve immediately with crackers, vegetables, or pretzels for dipping. If not serving right away, refrigerate until ready to use.

Tips & Variations

• For added flavor, mix in a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
• If you prefer, substitute walnuts for pecans or use your favorite nuts for coating.
• Try using different colored candies to customize Rudolph’s nose for a playful twist.
• Allow the cheese ball to soften at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for easier spreading.

Storage

Store the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve again, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly for easier spreading.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day or two in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving. Just add the pretzel antlers and decorations before serving to keep them fresh and intact.

What can I serve with the cheese ball?

This cheese ball pairs well with a variety of dippers like crackers, sliced baguette, fresh vegetables, pretzels, or even pita chips for a festive and tasty appetizer spread.

Rudolph Christmas Cheese Ball Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 115 reviews

Celebrate the holidays with this delightful Rudolph Christmas Cheese Ball, a festive and creamy appetizer perfect for holiday parties. Made with a blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and Parmesan, seasoned with garlic and onion powder, and coated in crunchy nuts, this cheese ball is decorated with pretzels and candy to resemble Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

• Author: Cleo
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese Ball Base

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Coating & Decoration

• 1 cup crushed pecans or walnuts
• 2 small pretzels (for antlers)
• 2 candy eyes (or chocolate chips)
• 1 red candy (like a cherry, red M&M, or gumdrop for Rudolph’s nose)

Instructions

1. Mix the Cheese Ball Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined using a spoon or hand mixer.
2. Shape the Cheese Ball: Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Wrap it tightly and shape it into a ball with your hands. Refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours until firm.
3. Coat the Cheese Ball: Once firm, remove the cheese ball from the plastic wrap and roll it in the crushed pecans or walnuts, pressing gently to coat evenly.
4. Decorate Rudolph’s Face: Place the cheese ball on a serving platter. Insert two small pretzels at the top for Rudolph’s antlers. Gently press in the candy eyes and red candy nose to create Rudolph’s face.
5. Serve: Serve immediately with crackers, vegetables, or pretzels for dipping. If not serving right away, refrigerate until ready to use.

Notes

• The cheese ball needs to chill for at least 1 to 2 hours to firm up properly before coating and decorating.
• You can substitute nuts according to preference or allergies.
• If you prefer, mix in fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor.
• For a festive twist, add a little cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese mixture for some heat.
• Use gluten-free pretzels and crackers if serving guests with gluten intolerance.

Keywords: Rudolph cheese ball, holiday appetizer, Christmas cheese ball, festive cheese spread, holiday party snack