Reindeer Cheese Ball

Christmas Cheese Ball with santa in back.

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This Reindeer Cheese Ball is a show-stopping holiday appetizer that’s both fun and delicious! It's a crowd-pleaser and a conversation starter that's sure to impress.

Prep Time10

Set Time4

Total Time4 10

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Servings: -12 servings

Calories: 412kcal

Author: Linda Warren

Ingredients

16 ounces cream cheese (2 blocks) softened at room temperature
⅓ cup sour cream
8 ounces medium cheddar cheese shredded
2-3 Tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
2 cups pecans roughly chopped
2 medium pitted black olives for the eyes
1 cherry tomato for the nose
2 regular sized pretzels for the antlers

Instructions

In the large bowl of an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream together until smooth.
Add the cheddar cheese and ranch seasoning mix and beat until well combined. Begin with two tablespoons of the ranch seasoning mix and taste after it’s blended. Add more if you want more flavor. Remember, the flavors will get stronger and meld together as it chills.
Pour the cheese ball mixture on top of a large sheet of plastic wrap. Make sure it covers all of the cheese ball then use it to help mold the shape into a ball. Twist it shut and transfer it to the refrigerator for 4-6 hours or overnight for best results. This will allow the cream cheese to harden back up and hold its shape.
To assemble: Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and transfer to a large platter filled with chopped pecans. Press the pecans into the cheese ball.
Add 2 pretzels on top for the antlers, pressing them into the cheese ball until they stand on their own.
Add two black olives for the eyes and a cherry tomato for the nose. Use toothpicks to secure the eyes and nose in place.
Serve the cheese ball surrounded by crackers.

Notes

MAKE AHEAD

You can prepare the cheese ball up to 3 days in advance - just shape it and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans and add the reindeer decorations.

Nutrition