Description

This festive Christmas Cheese Ball is a delightful appetizer combining creamy cream cheese, tangy goat cheese, and nutty Gruyère. Coated in toasted almonds and vibrant pomegranate arils, it adds a touch of elegance and color to any holiday gathering. Served chilled with crackers, it’s a perfect savory and sweet treat for your Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Ball Base

1 (8-oz.) block cream cheese, softened
6 oz. goat cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère (or sharp white cheddar)

Add-ins and Seasonings

1/2 cup sliced, toasted almonds
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Coating and Serving

1 cup pomegranate arils
Crackers, for serving

Instructions

Mix the cheeses and flavorings: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, goat cheese, and shredded Gruyère. Fold in the toasted almonds, chopped parsley, and thyme thoroughly. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste, ensuring the flavors are well balanced.
Form the cheese ball: Shape the combined cheese mixture into one large ball, making it as smooth and compact as possible to hold its form.
Coat with pomegranate arils: Spread the pomegranate arils evenly on a large plate. Gently roll the cheese ball in the arils until it is fully coated. Press the arils into any cracks on the surface by hand to achieve an even and festive appearance.
Chill the cheese ball: Place the coated cheese ball in the refrigerator and chill for about 20 minutes or until it becomes cold and firm enough to hold its shape during serving.
Serve with crackers: Once cold and sturdy, transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter. Serve alongside an assortment of crackers for guests to enjoy.

Notes

For a nut-free version, omit the toasted almonds and use additional herbs or seeds.
Gruyère can be substituted with sharp white cheddar if preferred for a stronger flavor.
Make the cheese ball a day ahead and keep refrigerated to deepen flavors.
Use a mix of fresh herbs to enhance the aromatic flavor profile.
Serve with a variety of crackers or sliced baguette for an elegant presentation.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Christmas Cheese Ball, Holiday Appetizer, Cream Cheese Appetizer, Festive Cheese Ball, Pomegranate Cheese Ball, Party Appetizer