Dessert

Christmas Cheese Ball Recipe

ByElara Stone December 22, 2025December 22, 2025

Introduction

This festive Christmas Cheese Ball is a delightful appetizer that combines creamy cheeses with crunchy almonds and fresh herbs. Coated in vibrant pomegranate arils, it’s as beautiful as it is flavorful—perfect for holiday gatherings.

A round cheese ball covered fully in shiny red pomegranate seeds sits on a black board, surrounded by different kinds of light beige crackers. The cheese ball is partly scooped open, showing a creamy inside mixed with green herbs and small bits of nuts. One cracker in front holds a dollop of this creamy mix with some pomegranate seeds on top. A silver knife with cheese on it rests next to the cheese ball. The board is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (8-oz.) block cream cheese, softened
6 oz. goat cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère (or sharp white cheddar)
1/2 cup sliced, toasted almonds
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 cup pomegranate arils
Crackers, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, goat cheese, and shredded Gruyère until smooth and well combined. Gently fold in the toasted almonds, chopped parsley, and thyme. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Form the mixture into one large ball.
Step 2: Spread the pomegranate arils evenly on a large plate. Roll the cheese ball gently over the arils until it is fully coated, pressing by hand to fill any cracks with the arils.
Step 3: Refrigerate the cheese ball for about 20 minutes until it becomes cold and firm. Serve chilled with crackers.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, omit the almonds and substitute with finely chopped celery for crunch.
Try adding a splash of honey to the cheese mixture for a touch of sweetness.
Use fresh herbs like chives or dill if you prefer a different herbal flavor.

Storage

Store the cheese ball covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve again, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly. The pomegranate arils may lose some freshness after a day, so consider adding fresh ones before serving if desired.

How to Serve

A round cheese ball covered completely in shiny red and pink pomegranate seeds sits in the center of a white plate. The cheese ball is creamy white in color, visible slightly between the seeds. Surrounding the cheese ball are different types of beige crackers, round and rectangular, with some showing small holes and a lightly toasted texture. A knife with a black handle rests on the edge of the plate. The plate is on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the cheese ball in advance?

Yes, this cheese ball can be made up to 2 days ahead. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving.

What can I serve with the cheese ball besides crackers?

The cheese ball pairs well with sliced baguette, vegetable sticks like celery or cucumber, and even pita chips for variety.