Hedgehog Cheeseball
This savory bacon cheddar ranch mixture with a festive presentation makes a great centerpiece on any holiday table. Serve with crackers, veggies, or crostini.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened at room temperature
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 6 slices bacon cooked and chopped
- 1 ounce ranch dressing mix (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- pecans for decorating
- raisins and peppercorns for decorating
- fresh dill for garnishing
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheese, bacon, ranch dressing mix, and chives. Stir until well combined. (If using a stand mixer, fold the bacon and chives in by hand at the end).
- Transfer the cheese mixture to a piece of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to form the mixture into an oval shape with a slight point on one end. Wrap with the plastic and refrigerate for a minimum of one hour (or as long as overnight).
- Decorate the chilled cheeseball with the pecans to create the hedgehog's spines. Add raisins for eyes and a peppercorn for the nose. Serve immediately. (Note 1)
- Store tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- Wait to decorate with the pecans until just before serving. The nuts will turn soft and soggy if refrigerated in the cheeseball.
Nutrition
Calories: 165kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 44mg | Sodium: 323mg | Potassium: 64mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 471IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 1mg
Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending upon the exact amounts and specific ingredients used.
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