Savory Mascarpone Bites
Indulge in these delectable Savory Mascarpone Bites, perfect for any gathering or as a delightful snack. These mini cheese balls offer a creamy, rich flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with various ingredients. While this basic recipe features chives for a fresh touch, feel free to customize your bites with your favorite mix-ins, such as tangy green olives or a smoky combination of bacon and cheddar. The crunchy walnut coating adds an appealing texture, making each bite a delightful experience. Serve them chilled for the ultimate flavor explosion. Enjoy the versatility of this recipe to suit your taste!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mascarpone cheese or cream cheese
1/4 lb (softened)
Salt
1 teaspoon (none)
White pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Finely chopped chives
1/4 cup (fresh)
Chopped walnuts
2 1/2 cups (for coating)
Instructions
1
In a food processor, combine the mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese), salt, white pepper, and chopped chives.
2
Blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3
Once blended, remove the mixture from the food processor and use your hands to shape it into bite-sized balls.
4
Pour the chopped walnuts onto a plate and gently roll each cheese ball in the walnuts until fully coated.
5
Place the coated cheese balls on a sheet of wax paper.
6
Cover the bites with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to firm up before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Mascarpone Bites?
Savory Mascarpone Bites are delectable mini cheese balls with a creamy flavor profile, perfect for gatherings or as a snack.
Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese for mascarpone in this recipe.
What is the main flavor profile of these bites?
The bites have a creamy and rich flavor profile, enhanced by the fresh touch of chives.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 6 servings.
What ingredients are used for the coating?
The cheese balls are coated in 2.5 cups of chopped walnuts for an appealing crunchy texture.
How long should the bites be refrigerated?
They should be refrigerated for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and the cheese to firm up.
What kitchen equipment is needed?
A food processor is needed to blend the cheese and spices until smooth.
Are Savory Mascarpone Bites customizable?
Yes, you can customize them with mix-ins like green olives or a bacon and cheddar combination.
How should these bites be served?
They are best served chilled for the ultimate flavor experience.
What seasonings are added to the cheese mixture?
The mixture is seasoned with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper.
What type of chives should be used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of fresh, finely chopped chives.
How do you shape the cheese balls?
After blending the mixture, use your hands to shape it into bite-sized balls.
What quantity of mascarpone is required?
The recipe requires 1/4 lb of softened mascarpone or cream cheese.
Should I cover the bites while they are in the fridge?
Yes, you should cover the bites with plastic wrap while they are refrigerating.
Can I use this for a party?
Absolutely, these are excellent as appetizers or party food.
What is the texture of the finished bite?
They have a smooth, creamy center with a crunchy walnut exterior.
Can I prepare the ingredients beforehand?
Yes, ensure the cheese is softened and chives are finely chopped before starting.
What kind of paper is used to set the balls on?
The coated cheese balls should be placed on a sheet of wax paper.
How much white pepper is needed?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper.
Are these bites considered a snack?
Yes, they are described as delightful bite-sized snacks.
What is the first step of the recipe?
The first step is to combine the cheese, salt, white pepper, and chives in a food processor.
Is salt included in the cheese mixture?
Yes, one teaspoon of salt is added to the mixture.
What category does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized under 'Cheese'.
Can I add tangy ingredients?
Yes, the recipe suggests adding tangy green olives as a variation.
How many walnuts should be used?
The recipe calls for 2 1/2 cups of chopped walnuts for coating the balls.
What should the consistency of the cheese mixture be?
The mixture should be blended until it is smooth and creamy.
Can I use black pepper instead?
While the recipe calls for white pepper for flavor and appearance, black pepper can be used as a substitute.
Are these served warm?
No, these are chilled treats and should be served cold.
How many ingredients are in the basic recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: cheese, salt, pepper, chives, and walnuts.
What is the preparation required for the walnuts?
The walnuts should be chopped so they are ready for coating the cheese balls.