Save A whimsical and festive appetizer featuring three creamy cheese balls shaped and decorated as cheerful snowmen—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This appetizer has always been a hit at our family parties and brings a playful touch to the table.
Ingredients
- Cheese Mixture: 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened, 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 green onions, finely chopped, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, salt to taste
- Decorations: 12–15 whole black peppercorns (for eyes/buttons), 3 small carrot sticks (for noses), 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced into strips (for scarves), 3 thin pretzel sticks (for arms), fresh parsley or dill sprigs (optional for hats/scarves), crackers and fresh vegetables for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Step 2:
- Divide the mixture into three portions: one large (for the base), one medium (for the middle), and one small (for the head) for each snowman. Roll each portion into smooth balls.
- Step 3:
- On a serving platter, stack the cheese balls in snowman shapes (largest at the bottom, smallest on top).
- Step 4:
- Decorate each snowman: use peppercorns for eyes and buttons, carrot sticks for noses, bell pepper strips for scarves, and pretzel sticks for arms. Add parsley or dill for extra flair if desired.
- Step 5:
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up before serving.
- Step 6:
- Serve with crackers and fresh vegetables.
Save This recipe never fails to bring smiles and happy memories during holiday celebrations with family and friends.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, rubber spatula or spoon, serving platter, small knife
Allergen Information
Contains Milk/Dairy (cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan). May contain Gluten if served with regular crackers; use gluten-free options as needed. Contains Wheat (pretzel arms; omit or substitute for gluten-free option if needed). Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (cheese ball only): Calories 180, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 2 g, Protein 9 g.
Save This festive appetizer is a fun and simple way to impress your guests this holiday season.
Recipe FAQ
- → What cheeses are used in the trio?
The blend includes cream cheese, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan for creamy texture and rich flavor.
- → How do you shape the cheese balls into snowmen?
The cheese mixture is divided into three sizes stacked from largest to smallest, forming the base, middle, and head of each snowman.
- → What decorations are used to create facial features and accessories?
Black peppercorns serve as eyes and buttons, carrot sticks form noses, red bell pepper strips act as scarves, and pretzel sticks become arms.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, shaping and decorating the balls a day ahead and chilling them keeps the appetizer fresh and flavors well combined.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, provided gluten-free crackers or vegetables replace regular crackers and pretzels that contain wheat.
- → How long should the cheese balls chill before serving?
Chilling for at least one hour helps the cheese firm up, making the snowmen easier to serve and enjoy.