Ultimate Indulgence Cheese Ball
This Ultimate Indulgence Cheese Ball is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that's bound to steal the show at any gathering. Creamy and rich, it combines the tang of green olives with the crunch of walnuts and the fresh zing of green onions, creating an irresistible flavor sensation. Your friends will be coming back for seconds (and thirds!)—prepare for this dip to disappear faster than you think! Perfect for spreading on crackers, or for a low-carb option, scoop it up with crunchy celery sticks.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
butter
1/2 cup (softened)
green olives
1/2 cup (chopped (Spanish variety))
green onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
walnuts
1/2 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
Begin by softening the cream cheese and butter at room temperature until they are pliable but not melted.
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy spoon to blend them together until smooth and creamy.
3
Next, fold in the chopped green olives and green onions, mixing well to ensure even distribution throughout the cheese mixture.
4
Once well combined, use your hands to form the mixture into a ball shape. To enhance texture and flavor, roll the entire cheese ball in the chopped walnuts until thoroughly coated.
5
Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 to 3 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor development.
6
When ready to serve, place the cheese ball on a platter alongside a selection of crackers and fresh celery sticks for dipping.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ultimate Indulgence Cheese Ball?
The Ultimate Indulgence Cheese Ball is a rich and creamy appetizer made from cream cheese, butter, green olives, green onions, and walnuts.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
This recipe requires only five main ingredients: cream cheese, butter, green olives, green onions, and walnuts.
What type of olives should I use?
The recipe specifically recommends using the Spanish variety of green olives for the best flavor profile.
Do I need to soften the cream cheese and butter?
Yes, it is important to soften them at room temperature until they are pliable to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
How long does the cheese ball need to chill?
The cheese ball should be refrigerated for at least 2 to 3 hours, or overnight for the best flavor development.
What is the best way to mix the cream cheese and butter?
You can use an electric mixer or a sturdy spoon to blend the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Absolutely, making it the day before is recommended to allow the flavors to fully meld together.
What should I serve with the cheese ball?
It is delicious when served with a selection of crackers or fresh celery sticks for a crunchier, low-carb option.
Is this cheese ball low-carb?
Yes, the ingredients themselves are naturally low in carbohydrates, and serving it with celery makes it an excellent low-carb snack.
How do I get the walnuts to stick to the cheese ball?
Once you have formed the mixture into a ball using your hands, simply roll the ball in the chopped walnuts until it is thoroughly coated.
What is the texture of this appetizer?
The texture is a combination of creamy from the cheese and butter, tangy from the olives, and crunchy from the walnut coating.
Can I substitute the walnuts?
While walnuts provide a classic flavor, you could try pecans or almonds if you prefer a different nut flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, it is specifically described as a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for gatherings, potlucks, and parties.
How do I prepare the green onions?
The green onions should be finely chopped before being folded into the cheese and butter mixture.
Can I use a food processor for mixing?
You can use a food processor to blend the cheese and butter, but it is better to fold the olives and onions in by hand to maintain texture.
What if the mixture is too soft to form a ball?
If the mixture is too soft, place it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to firm up slightly before shaping.
Can I add extra seasoning?
While the recipe is flavorful as is, you could add a pinch of garlic powder or black pepper if desired.
Is this a savory or sweet cheese ball?
This is a savory cheese ball featuring the salty tang of olives and the sharp bite of green onions.
How much cream cheese is needed?
The recipe calls for one 8-ounce package of cream cheese.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
You will need 1/2 cup of softened butter for this recipe.
What makes this cheese ball 'ultimate'?
The combination of rich butter and cream cheese paired with a high ratio of flavorful olives and crunchy nuts makes it exceptionally indulgent.
Are the walnuts raw or toasted?
The recipe calls for chopped walnuts; while raw is standard, you can lightly toast them for even more depth of flavor.
Can I use light cream cheese?
You can, though the final result will be less rich and may have a slightly softer consistency.
How do I ensure even distribution of the ingredients?
Fold the olives and onions in carefully after the base is smooth, stirring until they are evenly spread throughout the mix.
How do I serve this for a holiday gathering?
Place the finished cheese ball on a decorative platter and surround it with colorful vegetables and assorted crackers.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor and firm setting, but margarine can be used if necessary.
Why do I need to wrap it in plastic?
Wrapping it in plastic helps the cheese ball hold its shape and prevents it from absorbing other odors in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is labeled as an easy recipe because it requires no cooking and very simple assembly steps.
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation takes only a few minutes, followed by a necessary chilling period of at least two hours.