A Delicious Twist on the Classic Cheese Ball
Bring some retro charm to your next get-together with this Artisan Cheese Ball — a creamy, flavorful blend of cheeses, scallions, chopped dates, and buttery roasted pecans. It’s the perfect mix of savory, sweet, and nutty, and it looks absolutely stunning on any appetizer board.
If you’ve only ever tried the classic Cheddar version, prepare to meet your new favorite party snack. This elevated version combines goat cheese and cream cheese for a rich, tangy base, balanced by the subtle sweetness of dates and the crunch of roasted pecans.
The best part? It’s make-ahead friendly, easy to freeze, and guaranteed to disappear faster than you can say “pass the crackers.”
“I’ve made this Cheese Ball twice, and it’s been the star of both parties. Everyone’s shocked it’s homemade!”
— Teresa
🧂 What You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this Cheese Ball so special:
- Goat Cheese & Cream Cheese: A rich, creamy foundation with a tangy kick.
- Butter: Adds smoothness and helps the cheese blend together beautifully.
- Hot Sauce: Just enough spice to balance the sweetness of the dates.
- Dates: A chewy, caramel-like sweetness that elevates the flavor.
- Scallions: Fresh and sharp, cutting through the richness.
- Salted Butter-Roasted Pecans: Crunchy, buttery perfection (recipe below).
- Flat-Leaf Parsley: Adds freshness and color for the perfect finish.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Blend the Base:
In a stand mixer or large bowl, beat together the goat cheese, cream cheese, butter, hot sauce, and salt until smooth and creamy. - Add Flavor:
Stir in the chopped dates and scallions until everything is evenly mixed. Cover and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to firm up. - Shape the Ball:
Place plastic wrap on your counter. Scoop the chilled cheese mixture onto the center, gather the corners, and twist it to shape into a rough ball. Chill for at least 1 hour or until firm. - Coat with Crunch:
Combine the chopped roasted pecans and parsley on a plate. Roll the cheese ball in the mixture until fully covered. - Serve and Enjoy:
Let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for a perfectly spreadable texture.
Serve with crackers, pretzels, or apple slices — and watch it vanish in minutes!
💡 Pro Tips
- Make Ahead: The Cheese Ball can be prepared 2–3 days in advance.
- Freezer-Friendly: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 1 month (roll in nuts after thawing).
- Perfect Pairing: Try it alongside Deviled Eggs, Baked Brie, or Candied Pecans for a complete appetizer spread.
The Best Gourmet Cheese Ball
This Gourmet Cheese Ball is the ultimate make-ahead appetizer — rich, tangy, and full of flavor from goat cheese, Medjool dates, scallions, and buttery roasted pecans. Perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want to impress.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (chill time)
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 1 large or 2 small cheese balls (8 servings)
- Method: No-Bake / Chill
- Cuisine: American
Make the Cheese Ball:
- In a mixing bowl, beat together goat cheese, cream cheese, butter, hot sauce, and salt until smooth. Add dates and scallions; mix until combined. Cover and chill for 15 minutes.
- Place plastic wrap on your counter, scoop the cheese mixture into the center, and twist it tightly into a ball shape. Chill for 1 hour or until firm.
- Combine chopped pecans and parsley on a plate. Roll the cheese ball in this mixture until evenly coated. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Let it soften for 30 minutes before serving.
Make the Roasted Pecans:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss pecans with melted butter and ½ tsp salt, spread in a single layer, and bake for 9–11 minutes until fragrant and golden. Sprinkle with remaining salt and let cool.
- Store leftover nuts in an airtight container for up to a week.
Notes
- Refrigerate up to 3 days in advance.
- Freeze up to 1 month (wrap well and roll in nuts after thawing).
- Best served at room temperature for easy spreading.