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Hedgehog Cheeseball With Almonds

Charming Hedgehog Cheeseball With Almonds for Any Gathering

The Hedgehog Cheeseball With Almonds is a delightful twist on appetizers, perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Cheeseball Mix
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Use softened for easier mixing.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Opt for shredded for quicker blending.
  • 1 cup Bacon Bits Can substitute with chopped cooked sausage.
  • 1 oz Ranch Dressing Mix Store-bought works seamlessly.
  • 1 can Canned Black Olives Contributes a briny flavor; can use green olives.
  • 2 tbsp Chives Can replace with green onions.
  • 1 tsp Tabasco Sauce Adjust according to taste; can omit.
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce Optional but recommended for flavor.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice Adjust based on personal preference.
For the Decoration
  • 1 cup Slivered Almonds Mimicking hedgehog spikes.
  • 2 pcs Canned Black Olives Provide eyes and a nose.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • plastic wrap
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by setting out your ingredients to ensure a smooth workflow. Soften the cream cheese and cheddar cheese at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes until they are easy to mix.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and bacon bits. Add the ranch dressing mix, chopped black olives, finely sliced chives, a dash of Tabasco sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until thoroughly blended and smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Taste your cheese mixture for flavor, and season it according to your preference. Gradually add salt, pepper, and lemon juice, mixing well to ensure all flavors meld together beautifully.
  4. Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter and scoop the cheese mixture onto the center. Gather the edges of the wrap and gently shape the mixture into an oval form. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  5. Once the cheeseball has chilled, unwrap it carefully. Begin decorating by studding the flattened end with slivered almonds. Use whole or cut olives for the eyes and nose.
  6. Prepare to serve your creation! Place the decorated cheeseball on a serving platter and garnish it with fresh herbs. Offer assorted crackers and vegetable sticks alongside.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 6gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best flavor, chill overnight. Add almonds just before serving to keep them crunchy.

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