Celebration Cheese Balls

A handful of simple ingredients that go together in minutes, three fun flavorful options…these creamy cheese balls from our Test Kitchen are a darling, do-ahead delight for busy holiday hostesses! Why not whip up several batches?

Ingreadient:

• 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons prepared pesto
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh basil
• 10 tablespoons toasted pine nuts, divided
• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
• 1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon minced seeded jalapeno pepper
• Assorted crackers

Direction

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, Parmesan cheese and garlic until blended. Divide into three portions.
2. For Pine Nut-Pesto Cheese Ball: Beat one portion of cream cheese mixture and pesto until blended. Stir in basil. Chop 2 tablespoons pine nuts; stir into cheese mixture. Shape into a ball; roll in remaining pine nuts. Wrap in plastic; chill until firm.
3. For Horseradish-Bacon Cheese Ball: Beat one portion of cream cheese mixture and horseradish until blended. Stir in bacon and onion. Shape into a ball. Wrap in plastic; chill until firm.
4. For Salsa Cheese Ball: Beat one portion of cream cheese mixture, tomato paste and salt until blended. Stir in cilantro, onion and jalapeno. Shape into a ball. Wrap in plastic; chill until firm.
5. Can refrigerate up to two weeks. Serve with crackers.