Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate party appetizer that will have your guests begging for the recipe! The Strawberry Jalapeno Cheese Ball is a mind-blowing fusion of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors that will transform your ordinary gathering into an unforgettable culinary experience. Imagine the perfect balance of smooth cream cheese, sharp cheddar, juicy strawberries, and a kick of jalapeno heat - all rolled into one irresistible bite that'll make you the star of any potluck or game day spread!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup diced strawberries
- 1-2 jalapenos, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- Crackers for serving
Instructions
- Remove cream cheese from refrigerator and let soften at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes to ensure smooth mixing.
- Wash and pat dry fresh strawberries. Carefully dice into small, uniform pieces, removing any stems or blemishes.
- Carefully seed and finely chop jalapenos, wearing gloves to protect hands from capsaicin. Remove seeds for less heat, or keep some for additional spiciness.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly using a hand mixer or wooden spoon until well blended and creamy.
- Gently fold in diced strawberries and chopped jalapenos, ensuring even distribution throughout the cheese mixture.
- Transfer the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to help shape the mixture into a compact ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans, pressing gently to ensure nuts adhere completely to the surface.
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and mixture to firm up.
- Before serving, let cheese ball sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to soften slightly. Serve with an assortment of crackers.
- Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature for the smoothest, most spreadable texture.
- Glove Up: When handling jalapenos, always wear kitchen gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils.
- Customize the Heat: Remove jalapeno seeds for a milder version, or keep them in for an extra spicy kick.
- Chop Uniformly: Dice strawberries and jalapenos into small, consistent pieces for the best flavor distribution.
- Chill for Flavor: Refrigerating the cheese ball for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serving Tip: Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance its spreadability.
- Make Ahead: This appetizer can be prepared a day in advance, making party prep a breeze!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
