Print

Crowd-Pleasing Smoked Gouda Pecan Cheese Ball Bites

smoked gouda pecan cheese ball bites - featured image
Print Recipe

These Smoked Gouda Pecan Cheese Ball Bites are quick, easy, and perfect for any gathering. With a creamy, smoky cheese base and a crunchy pecan coating, they’re a crowd-pleasing appetizer that comes together in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 8 ounces smoked gouda, shredded
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Toast the pecans: Place chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and just starting to darken. Transfer to a plate to cool completely.
  2. Shred the gouda: While pecans cool, shred smoked gouda (cold cheese shreds easier). Aim for about 2 cups.
  3. Soften the cream cheese: Cut cream cheese into cubes and let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or microwave on low for 10-15 seconds until soft but not melted.
  4. Mix the cheese base: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded gouda, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Fold together with a rubber spatula until well combined. Adjust seasonings to taste.
  5. Chill the mixture: Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or freeze for 15 minutes if in a rush) until firm enough to roll.
  6. Prepare the coating: On a shallow plate, combine cooled toasted pecans, minced parsley, and chives. Mix evenly.
  7. Form the cheese balls: Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the cheese mixture. Roll each portion between palms to form smooth balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should get about 20-24 balls.
  8. Coat the balls: Roll each cheese ball in the pecan mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Double-coat for extra crunch if desired.
  9. Final chill: Refrigerate coated cheese balls for at least 20 minutes before serving to firm up and meld flavors.

Notes

For best results, shred gouda while cold. Cream cheese should be softened but not melted. Chill mixture thoroughly before rolling. Can be made up to 2 days in advance (mixture) or 24 hours ahead (formed balls). Serve chilled. For a nut-free option, use crushed pretzels or fresh herbs instead of pecans.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked gouda, cheese ball bites, pecan, appetizer, party food, holiday appetizer, easy appetizer, make-ahead appetizer

Find it online: https://vexifood.com/crowd-pleasing-smoked-gouda-pecan-cheese-ball-bites/