Savory Bleu Cheese and Black Olive Delight Ball
This Savory Bleu Cheese and Black Olive Delight Ball is the perfect blend of creamy richness from the blue cheese and smooth cream cheese, combined with the briny flavor of black olives. An irresistible appetizer for any occasion, this cheese ball is not only simple to prepare but can also be made up to a week in advance, making it ideal for busy hosts. Whether you're gearing up for a holiday gathering, a casual cocktail party, or simply enjoying a cozy night in with friends, this cheese ball served with your favorite crackers will be the star of the spread. Its unique flavors will have your guests asking for the recipe!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
1/2 cup (softened)
Cream Cheese
1 package (8 ounces) (softened)
Chopped Black Olives
1 can (4 ounces) (drained)
Blue Cheese
1 package (4 ounces) (crumbled)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and cream cheese, blending until smooth and airy.
2
Add the chopped black olives and crumbled blue cheese to the bowl, continuing to mix until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
3
Scoop the mixture out of the bowl and shape it into a large ball or divide it into smaller portions to create individual cheese balls.
4
Wrap the shaped cheese ball(s) in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
5
When ready to serve, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator, unwrap it, and place it on a serving platter.
6
Accompany with a selection of crunchy crackers for the perfect pairing.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Bleu Cheese and Black Olive Delight Ball?
It is a rich and creamy appetizer made from a blend of blue cheese, cream cheese, butter, and briny black olives, typically served with crackers.
What are the primary ingredients needed for this recipe?
The main ingredients are softened butter, cream cheese, chopped and drained black olives, and crumbled blue cheese.
How long should the cheese ball be refrigerated before serving?
The cheese ball should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, this cheese ball can be prepared up to a week in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy hosts.
What should I serve with the Savory Bleu Cheese and Black Olive Delight Ball?
It is best served with a selection of crunchy crackers, though crusty bread or vegetable sticks also work well.
Is it necessary to soften the butter and cream cheese?
Yes, softening the butter and cream cheese is crucial to ensure a smooth and airy consistency during the mixing process.
Can I make individual-sized portions instead of one large ball?
Absolutely, the mixture can be divided into smaller portions to create individual cheese balls for easier serving.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
This recipe is very simple and only requires 4 main ingredients.
Can I substitute the blue cheese if I prefer a milder flavor?
While blue cheese provides the signature tang, you could substitute it with gorgonzola or a sharp feta, though the flavor profile will change.
Should the black olives be drained before adding them?
Yes, it is important to drain the black olives thoroughly to prevent the cheese ball from becoming too watery.
How do I shape the cheese mixture into a ball?
Once mixed, scoop the mixture out and use your hands or plastic wrap to mold it into a spherical shape.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe contains only dairy and vegetable-based ingredients, making it suitable for vegetarians who consume dairy.
Can I freeze the cheese ball?
Freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture of the cream cheese and butter once thawed.
What kind of black olives work best?
Canned black olives that have been chopped and well-drained are ideal for this specific recipe.
Can I add nuts to the outside of the ball?
Yes, rolling the finished ball in chopped pecans or walnuts can add a nice crunch and visual appeal.
How long can the cheese ball sit out at room temperature?
For safety and texture, it should not sit out for more than 2 hours during a party.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The cheese ball itself is gluten-free, but you should ensure you serve it with gluten-free crackers if needed.
Can I use a mixer for this recipe?
Yes, a hand mixer or stand mixer can be used to blend the butter and cream cheese until they are light and airy.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Does the recipe require any cooking?
No, this is a no-bake recipe that only requires mixing, shaping, and chilling.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It is savory, creamy, and rich, with a sharp tang from the blue cheese and a briny finish from the olives.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Yes, a small amount of garlic powder or minced garlic can be added for extra depth of flavor.
What type of cream cheese is best?
Standard full-fat block cream cheese provides the best structural integrity for shaping the ball.
Can I use green olives instead?
Yes, you can substitute green olives for a more piquant, salty flavor, though the original recipe calls for black olives.
How do I prevent the cheese from sticking to my hands?
Chilling the mixture slightly before shaping or using plastic wrap to help mold it can prevent sticking.
Can I add fresh herbs?
Freshly chopped parsley or chives would make a great addition to the mixture or as a coating on the outside.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, the ingredients are low in carbohydrates, making the cheese ball itself keto-friendly when served with appropriate dippers.
What size can of olives is used?
The recipe specifically calls for a 4-ounce can of chopped black olives.
Can I use whipped butter?
Standard butter is preferred for better structure, but softened butter is necessary for proper blending.
Why is the chilling step important?
Chilling allows the fats in the butter and cream cheese to solidify, which holds the ball's shape and intensifies the flavors.