Cheesy Chicks Mini Cheese Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun and Festive: These mini cheese balls are not only tasty but also adorable, making them an ideal addition to your Easter spread or any springtime gathering.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few ingredients, you can create these delightful treats that are packed with creamy, savory flavor.
• Easy to Customize: You can play around with the size and decoration to suit your theme or preferences.
• Perfect for Parties: Serve these on round crackers for the perfect mini bites your guests can enjoy without the mess.

Ingredients

• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 (14-ounce) can whole black olives
• 2 cups finely shredded cheddar cheese
• Round crackers
• Carrot rounds (for beaks and feet)
• Whole peppercorns (for eyes)

Directions

1. Mix the Cream Cheese Mixture: Using a mixer, combine the cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to taste. Refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour to firm up slightly.

2. Form the Balls: Drain the can of olives and, using your fingers, cover each olive completely with about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture, shaping it into a ball. Place the balls on a baking sheet or tray and refrigerate for another hour to set.

3. Coat with Cheddar Cheese: Once the cheese balls are firm, roll each one in the finely shredded cheddar cheese to coat it evenly.

4. Assemble the Chicks: Place each cheese ball on a round cracker for a perch. Cut pie-shaped wedges from carrot rounds and press them onto the balls as beaks and feet. Add whole black peppercorns to form eyes.

5. Serve: Arrange the Cheesy Chicks Mini Cheese Balls on a platter, and serve immediately. Enjoy these cute and tasty appetizers at your next party!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 20 mini cheese balls
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2 hours (1 hour for the cream cheese mixture and 1 hour for the cheese balls)
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb Flavors: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme for a fresh, herbal flavor.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack or gouda, for a unique flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Cheesy Chicks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: These can be frozen before rolling in the cheddar cheese. Just thaw and roll them in cheese before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese balls and refrigerate them up to a day ahead of time. Just add the carrot beaks and peppercorn eyes right before serving.

Can I use something other than black olives?

You can substitute the olives with green olives or even use small grape tomatoes for a different look!

What type of crackers are best?

Round crackers like Ritz or any plain butter crackers work great to balance the flavors.

How do I make the beaks and feet more visible?

If you want a bolder look, use larger carrot rounds for the beaks and feet or cut them into more defined shapes.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Chicks Mini Cheese Balls are as delicious as they are fun! Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these bite-sized appetizers will add charm and flavor to the table. With their creamy center, cheesy exterior, and adorable chick decorations, they’ll be a hit with guests of all ages. Try this recipe and make your next event extra special!

Cheesy Chicks Mini Cheese Balls

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• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 20 mini cheese balls
• Category: Appetizer, Party Food
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Cheesy Chicks Mini Cheese Balls are a fun, festive appetizer that brings a touch of charm to your Easter celebration or any springtime gathering. These adorable chick-shaped cheese balls, packed with creamy cheddar cheese and topped with carrot beaks and feet, are a hit with both kids and adults!

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Ingredients

• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 (14-ounce) can whole black olives
• 2 cups finely shredded cheddar cheese
• Round crackers (for serving)
• Carrot rounds (for beaks and feet)
• Whole peppercorns (for eyes)

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Instructions

1. Mix the Cream Cheese Mixture:

   • Using a mixer, combine the cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up slightly.

2. Form the Balls:

   • Drain the olives. Using your fingers, cover each olive completely with about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture, shaping it into a ball.
   • Place the balls on a baking sheet and refrigerate for another hour to set.

3. Coat with Cheddar Cheese:

   • Once the cheese balls are firm, roll each one in the finely shredded cheddar cheese to coat evenly.

4. Assemble the Chicks:

   • Place each cheese ball on a round cracker as a perch. Cut carrot rounds into pie-shaped wedges for the beaks and feet, and press them onto the balls.
   • Add whole black peppercorns for eyes.

5. Serve:

   • Arrange the Cheesy Chicks Mini Cheese Balls on a platter and serve immediately. Enjoy!

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Notes

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme for an extra flavor boost.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for unique flavor combinations.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.