Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 4 ounces (115g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces (115g) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons Everything Bagel seasoning
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 2 ounces (55g) blue cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
  • 2 tablespoons pepperoni, diced
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  2. Divide the Mixture: Divide the cheese mixture evenly into 5 separate mixing bowls.
  3. Flavor Each Bowl: Everything Bagel: Add the Everything Bagel seasoning to one bowl and mix well. Cranberry Pistachio: Add the chopped dried cranberries and pistachios to another bowl and mix well. Spicy Fiesta: Add the chopped jalapeños, cilantro, and chili powder to a third bowl and mix well. Blue Cheese Walnut: Add the crumbled blue cheese and toasted walnuts to a fourth bowl and mix well. Pizza: Add the diced pepperoni, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning (and red pepper flakes, if using) to the final bowl and mix well.
  4. Shape the Bites: For each flavor, roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
  5. Chill the Bites: Place the cheese ball bites onto a baking sheet lined with plastic wrap. Cover with more plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 45 minutes to allow them to firm up.
  6. Serve & Enjoy: Once chilled, arrange the cheese ball bites on a platter and serve with your favorite dippers (crackers, pretzels, veggies, etc.).