Strawberry Jalapeño Cheese Ball
User Reviews
5
Strawberry Jalapeño Cheese Ball
Description
This cheese ball begins by mixing softened cream cheese with shredded white cheddar until smooth. A strawberry jalapeño fruit spread is strained to remove excess jelly, then blended with the cheese mixture along with fresh finely chopped jalapeño and parsley, adding sweet, spicy, and herby notes. The mixture is formed into balls, tightly wrapped in plastic, and refrigerated for at least an hour to set the shape and allow flavors to meld. Finally, the cheese balls are unwrapped and rolled in pecan chips to create a textured, nutty crust. Served with a variety of crackers and fresh vegetable sticks, it combines creamy, fruity, and spicy elements suitable for sharing.
The chilling period enhances the firmness needed to handle the cheese ball and meld flavors. The pecans add a crunchy contrast to the smooth cheese, and the inclusion of jalapeño introduces a balanced heat that complements the sweetness of the fruit spread.
This appetizer holds well for refrigeration and can be frozen if needed, making it flexible for entertaining or make-ahead preparation.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened
- 2 cups White Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1 jar fruit spread Smucker’s Fruit & Honey Strawberry Jalapeño
- 1 jalapeño finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons parsley chopped
- 1 cup pecan chips
Instructions
- Mix the softened cream cheese and white cheddar cheese together using a mixer or by hand.
- Pour the jar of Smucker’s Fruit & Honey Strawberry Jalapeño Fruit Spread into a mesh strainer that has been placed over a bowl. Stir a few times until about 2 tablespoons of fine jelly are strained into the bowl. Place the contents of the bowl back in the Smucker’s jar and save for later use.
- Blend the remaining Smucker’s Fruit & Honey Strawberry Jalapeño Fruit Spread with the cheese mixture. When well blended, add jalapeño and parsley.
- Place two sections of plastic wrap on the counter. Divide the cheese mixture between the two sections. Wrap the mixture into a ball. Make sure it is completely covered with the plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- When ready to serve, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the pecan chips until it is completely covered. Serve on a plate or platter with a variety of crackers, celery sticks, carrot sticks, and sliced cucumbers.
Notes
- Chill the cheese ball for at least one hour, or preferably overnight, to develop flavor and firmness.
- To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag; it can be stored frozen for 1 to 2 months.
- Store in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in plastic to maintain freshness and prevent drying.
- Do not leave the cheese ball out at room temperature for more than 4 hours to ensure food safety.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 10Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 324 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 324kcal | 16% |
| Carbohydrates | 4g | 1% |
| Protein | 9g | 18% |
| Fat | 31g | 48% |
| Saturated Fat | 14g | 70% |
| Cholesterol | 74mg | 25% |
| Sodium | 288mg | 12% |
| Potassium | 142mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 866IU | 17% |
| Vitamin C | 2mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 221mg | 22% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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