Save Charming, bite-sized cheese balls shaped like acorns, coated with nuts and herbs—perfect for autumn gatherings and festive entertaining.
This recipe reminds me of cozy fall nights spent with friends enjoying simple, flavorful bites.
Ingredients
- Cheese Mixture: 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese softened , 120 g (1 cup) sharp cheddar cheese finely shredded , 2 tablespoons chives finely chopped , 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce , 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard , 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder , 1/4 teaspoon black pepper , Pinch of salt
- Coating & Decoration: 60 g (1/2 cup) finely chopped toasted pecans , 60 g (1/2 cup) finely chopped parsley or fresh dill , 24 mini pretzel sticks , 24 small rosemary leaves (optional for acorn stems)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl , combine cream cheese, cheddar, chives, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Step 2:
- Scoop out heaping teaspoons of the cheese mixture and roll them into small oval or acorn shapes using your hands.
- Step 3:
- Roll the top half of each cheese ball in the chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere. Roll the bottom half in parsley or dill for contrast.
- Step 4:
- Insert a mini pretzel stick into the top of each cheese ball to resemble an acorn stem. Add a rosemary leaf if desired.
- Step 5:
- Arrange acorn cheese balls on a serving platter. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving for best texture.
Save My family enjoys these cheese balls as a special treat during our fall celebrations, creating fond memories.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture. Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred. Serve with assorted crackers or sliced vegetables. Acorn cheese balls can be made up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl , Hand mixer or sturdy spoon , Measuring spoons and cups , Small ice cream scoop or tablespoon (optional) , Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, cheddar) and tree nuts (pecans). Contains gluten if using regular pretzel sticks use gluten-free pretzels for a GF option. Always check labels for potential allergens.
Save This delightful appetizer brings the essence of fall to your table in a simple , elegant presentation.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cheeses are used in the acorn bites?
The base blends softened cream cheese with finely shredded sharp cheddar for a creamy and sharp flavor balance.
- → How do the pretzel sticks enhance the bites?
Pretzel sticks act as acorn stems, adding crunch and a rustic visual detail that completes the acorn shape.
- → Can I substitute the nut coating?
Yes, toasted pecans may be replaced with walnuts or almonds, keeping a crunchy, nutty coating.
- → How long should the bites chill before serving?
Chilling for at least 15 minutes firms the cheese balls, improving texture and flavor melding.
- → Are these bites gluten-free?
They can be gluten-free if served with gluten-free pretzel sticks or crackers.