Save Charming, bite-sized cheese balls shaped like acorns, coated with nuts and herbs—perfect for autumn gatherings and festive entertaining.
The first time I made these acorn cheese ball bites, they were the hit of our family party and vanished quickly.
Ingredients
- Cheese Mixture: 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened, 120 g (1 cup) sharp cheddar cheese finely shredded, 2 tablespoons chives finely chopped, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, Pinch of salt
- Coating & Decoration: 60 g (1/2 cup) finely chopped toasted pecans, 60 g (1/2 cup) finely chopped parsley or fresh dill, 24 mini pretzel sticks, 24 small rosemary leaves (optional for acorn stems)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, chives, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Step 2:
- Scoop out heaping teaspoons of the cheese mixture and roll them into small oval or acorn shapes using your hands.
- Step 3:
- Roll the top half of each cheese ball in the chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere. Roll the bottom half in parsley or dill for contrast.
- Step 4:
- Insert a mini pretzel stick into the top of each cheese ball to resemble an acorn stem. Add a rosemary leaf if desired.
- Step 5:
- Arrange acorn cheese balls on a serving platter. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving for best texture.
Save Making these cheese balls became a cherished family tradition, especially during our fall celebrations.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture. Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred. Serve with assorted crackers or sliced vegetables. Can be made up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, hand mixer or sturdy spoon, measuring spoons and cups, small ice cream scoop or tablespoon (optional), knife and cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, cheddar) and tree nuts (pecans). Contains gluten if using regular pretzel sticks; use gluten-free pretzels for a GF option. Always check labels for potential allergens.
Save This easy appetizer brings festive charm and delicious flavor to any autumn gathering.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I prepare these cheese bites ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated to maintain freshness and texture.
- → What nuts can be used for coating these bites?
Toasted pecans are recommended, but walnuts or almonds are great alternatives for different flavor profiles.
- → Are these bites suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free pretzel sticks to keep them gluten-free; otherwise, standard pretzels contain gluten.
- → How do the herbs contribute to the flavor?
Fresh parsley or dill adds a bright, herby contrast to the rich cheese coating, balancing the savory notes.
- → Can I adjust the seasoning in the cheese mixture?
Definitely! Adding smoked paprika or adjusting garlic and mustard levels personalizes the flavor to your liking.