Pin Charming, bite-sized cheese balls shaped like acorns, coated with nuts and herbs—perfect for autumn gatherings and festive entertaining.
This recipe has become a favorite at family parties where everyone loves the unique presentation and tasty blend of cheeses and herbs.
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.
Pin
This recipe always brings smiles and invites fond memories during family gatherings around the table.
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. Acorn cheese balls 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.
Pin This simple yet delightful appetizer adds a festive touch to your celebrations every time.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cheeses are used in these bites?
The bites use a combination of softened cream cheese and finely shredded sharp cheddar for rich flavor and smooth texture.
- → How do I create the acorn shape?
Roll heaping teaspoons of the cheese mixture into small oval shapes by hand, resembling acorns before coating.
- → Can I substitute the nuts?
Yes, toasted pecans can be swapped with toasted walnuts or almonds based on preference.
- → What do the pretzel sticks represent?
Mini pretzel sticks serve as acorn stems, adding a crunchy texture and festive look.
- → Are these bites suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, when gluten-free pretzels are used, these cheese bites are gluten-free friendly.
- → Can these be prepared in advance?
They can be made up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated to enhance flavor and texture.