Cheese Truffles (Mini Cheese Balls) Recipe
These delightful Cheese Truffles, also known as Mini Cheese Balls, are a perfect appetizer featuring creamy, flavorful cheese mixtures rolled into bite-sized balls and coated with a variety of tasty toppings. With two distinct fillings made from cream cheese or feta cheese blended with flavorful herbs, nuts, and dried cranberries, these truffles are simple to prepare and sure to impress at any gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20-24 mini cheese balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz / 250g cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated cheese (tasty, cheddar, or any other flavorful cheese)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt to taste
Feta Cheese Filling
- 10 oz / 300g goat cheese
- 10 oz / 300g Danish feta
- 1 cup grated cheese (tasty, cheddar, or any other flavorful cheese)
- 1 tbsp sour cream (or approximately 2 tsp milk or water)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh herbs (parsley and dill recommended)
Coating
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded or grated
- 1/3 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated cheese, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Adjust salt to taste.
- Prepare the Feta Cheese Filling: In another bowl, combine goat cheese, Danish feta, grated cheese, sour cream (or milk/water), and finely chopped fresh herbs. Mix well until smooth and well combined.
- Form the Cheese Balls: Measure out 1 tablespoon of the desired filling. Use a teaspoon to scoop the filling from the tablespoon and place it onto a tray or cutting board. Once all filling portions are scooped, use your hands to roll each portion into a smooth ball. Place the formed balls onto the tray and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours to set.
- Prepare the Coatings: Divide the Parmesan cheese, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries into separate small bowls for coating.
- Coat the Cheese Balls: After chilling, roll each cheese ball in one of the coatings so they are evenly covered.
- Refrigerate until Serving: Place the coated cheese balls back into the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Bring to Serving Temperature: Remove the cheese balls from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving to allow them to soften slightly and become spreadable.
- Serve: Present the cheese truffles on a platter alongside crackers or pieces of toasted bread for guests to enjoy.
Notes
- The recipe features two distinct fillings which can be prepared separately and offered as options for guests.
- If sour cream is unavailable, substitute with milk or water to keep the feta filling creamy.
- Feel free to customize the coatings with your choice of nuts, dried fruits, or herbs for variety.
- Chilling the cheese balls thoroughly is crucial to help them firm up for easy rolling and coating.
- Allowing the cheese balls to sit at room temperature before serving enhances their texture and flavor.
Keywords: cheese truffles, mini cheese balls, appetizer, cream cheese, feta cheese, party snacks, easy cheese recipes, no-cook appetizers
