Description
A deliciously creamy and crunchy cheese ball with a perfect balance of sweet heat and savory depth. This Sweet & Spicy Pepper Jelly Cheese Ball is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer ideal for parties, holidays, or whenever you need a little kick with your cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup sweet and spicy pepper jelly
- 1/4 cup diced hot peppers (such as jalapeños or serranos)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Additional pecans, for rolling
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended and smooth.
- Add in the chopped pecans, sweet and spicy pepper jelly, diced hot peppers, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Once chilled, unwrap and roll the cheese ball in additional chopped pecans until fully coated.
- Serve with crackers, fresh veggies, or slices of toasted baguette. Enjoy!
Notes
- Softened Cream Cheese is Key
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing this ensures a smooth, lump-free texture that blends easily with the other ingredients and creates a creamy, spreadable consistency. - Chill for Structure
Refrigerating the cheese ball for at least two hours helps it firm up and hold its shape. If you’re prepping it ahead, overnight chilling works even better and enhances the flavor blend. - Toast the Pecans
Briefly toasting the pecans (5–7 minutes at 350°F) before using them adds a warm, nutty flavor and elevates the overall crunch. Let them cool before adding to avoid melting the cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: No-Cook, Chill
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~1/8 of cheese ball
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: cheese ball, pepper jelly, spicy appetizer, party food, holiday snack