20 Delicious Cheese Ball Recipes with Cream Cheese Ideas

Cheese balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—creamy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable! Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, game night, or just craving a savory snack, these 20 delicious cream cheese-based recipes are here to save the day. From zesty jalapeño popper bites to sweet-and-savory cranberry pecan twists, there’s a cheesy delight for every occasion. Ready to roll? Let’s dig in!

Classic Ranch Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This crowd-pleasing ranch cheese ball is creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor—perfect for game day or your next potluck!

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions (about 4–5 stalks)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for coating)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer (or sturdy spoon) until smooth and fluffy, about 1 minute.
2. Add the ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar, green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined.
3. Scrape the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and shape into a ball. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to firm up.
4. Just before serving, spread the chopped nuts on a plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it gently in the nuts, pressing lightly to adhere.

The secret to this recipe? Letting the flavors meld in the fridge—it tastes even better the next day! Serve with crackers, veggie sticks, or pretzels for a savory bite every time.

Tip: For extra zing, swap half the cheddar for pepper jack cheese.

Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This crowd-pleasing cheese ball is packed with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a creamy tang—perfect for spreading on crackers or veggies at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled (reserve 2 tbsp for garnish)
• 2 green onions, finely chopped (reserve 1 tbsp for garnish)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the cheddar cheese, 4 tbsp crumbled bacon, green onions (minus the reserved tbsp), Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until fully combined.
2. Shape the mixture into a ball with your hands (lightly oil them if sticky) and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 1 hour or until firm.
3. Spread the chopped pecans on a plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the pecans, pressing gently to adhere. Sprinkle the reserved bacon and green onions on top.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days. Let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving for the best texture.

The smoky bacon and crunchy pecans give this cheese ball a fun contrast of textures, while the Worcestershire sauce adds a subtle umami kick.

Tip: For extra flair, shape the mixture into a smaller log instead of a ball—it’s easier to slice for charcuterie boards!

Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This spicy, creamy cheese ball packs all the addictive flavors of jalapeño poppers into an easy-to-scoop party appetizer—no frying required!

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
• 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced (about 1/4 cup)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup finely crushed butter crackers (like Ritz), for coating

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth. Fold in shredded cheddar, bacon, jalapeños, green onions, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika until fully combined.
2. Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Scoop the mixture onto the center, then use the wrap to shape it into a tight ball. Chill for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours).
3. Before serving, roll the chilled cheese ball in crushed crackers until fully coated. Serve with crackers or veggie sticks.

The magic here? Letting the flavors meld in the fridge transforms this from good to can’t-stop-eating-it territory—the smokiness of the paprika plays off the jalapeño heat perfectly.

Tip: For extra kick, leave a few jalapeño seeds in the mix!

Garlic Herb Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This crowd-pleasing cheese ball is packed with savory garlic, fresh herbs, and creamy tang—perfect for spreading on crackers or crusty bread.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth.
2. Add the shredded cheddar, minced garlic, parsley, chives, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined.
3. Scrape the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and shape into a ball. Chill for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to firm up.
4. Before serving, roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere.

The blend of fresh herbs and toasted pecans gives this cheese ball a rustic, flavorful crunch that stands out on any snack spread.

Tip: For extra depth, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes before chopping.

Buffalo Chicken Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This zesty, crowd-pleasing cheese ball packs all the bold flavors of buffalo wings into a creamy, spreadable appetizer—perfect for game day or potlucks!

Ingredients:

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1/3 cup buffalo hot sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth. Stir in the shredded chicken, buffalo hot sauce, cheddar cheese, celery, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully combined.
2. Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on the counter. Scoop the mixture onto the center, then use the wrap to shape it into a tight ball. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) to firm up.
3. Just before serving, roll the chilled cheese ball in the crumbled blue cheese until evenly coated. Serve with celery sticks, crackers, or pretzels for dipping.

The tangy blue cheese crust balances the spicy buffalo kick, while the creamy interior stays perfectly scoopable—no one can resist double-dipping!

Tip: For extra heat, drizzle extra buffalo sauce over the cheese ball before serving.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This savory cheese ball is a crowd-pleaser with its rich cream cheese base, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil—perfect for spreading on crackers or crusty bread.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (for coating, optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until fully combined.
3. Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the center, then use the wrap to shape it into a smooth ball. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours).
4. Before serving, roll the cheese ball in chopped walnuts (if using) until evenly coated.

The sun-dried tomatoes add a chewy sweetness that balances perfectly with the creamy, herby base—ideal for last-minute entertaining.

Tip: For extra flavor, reserve a little oil from the sun-dried tomatoes and drizzle it over the cheese ball before serving.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This festive cheese ball is a crowd-pleaser, with sweet-tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy cheese—perfect for spreading on crackers or apple slices.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup pecans, finely chopped (plus 1/2 cup for coating)
• 2 tbsp green onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup dried cranberries, 1/4 cup pecans, green onions, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 tsp salt until fully combined.
2. Shape the mixture into a ball (about 6 inches wide) and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Before serving, roll the cheese ball in the remaining 1/2 cup pecans, pressing gently to adhere. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes for easier spreading.

The contrast of creamy cheese, chewy cranberries, and buttery pecans makes this irresistible—plus, it’s a make-ahead lifesaver for holiday parties!

Tip: For extra flair, garnish with a few whole cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.

Everything Bagel Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This crowd-pleasing cheese ball packs all the savory, garlicky goodness of an everything bagel into a creamy, dippable appetizer—perfect for game day or holiday snacking.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (plus 2 tbsp more for coating)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth. Fold in the cheddar cheese, 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until fully combined.
2. Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on the counter. Scoop the mixture onto the center, then use the plastic to shape it into a tight ball. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours).
3. Just before serving, spread the remaining 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning on a plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it gently in the seasoning to coat evenly. Serve with crackers, pretzels, or veggie sticks.

The magic here? The double dose of everything seasoning—mixed inside and crusted outside—gives every bite maximum flavor.

Tip: For extra crunch, toast the everything bagel seasoning in a dry skillet for 1 minute before coating the cheese ball.

Spinach Artichoke Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This creamy, tangy cheese ball is packed with spinach and artichoke flavors—perfect for spreading on crackers or serving as a party appetizer!

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup finely chopped canned artichoke hearts (drained and squeezed dry)
• 1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup finely chopped toasted pecans (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth.
2. Add the artichoke hearts, spinach, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a ball using a spatula and clean hands, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to firm up.
4. Before serving, roll the cheese ball in the chopped pecans, pressing lightly to adhere.

The pecans add a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, savory filling—making this a standout appetizer for any gathering.

Tip: For extra flavor, swap the pecans for crispy bacon bits or everything bagel seasoning!

Smoked Salmon Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This smoked salmon cheese ball is a creamy, savory showstopper—perfect for spreading on crackers or serving as an elegant party appetizer.

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 oz smoked salmon, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, minced (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for rolling)

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 1 minute.
2. Fold in the smoked salmon, 2 tbsp dill, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until fully combined.
3. Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on the counter. Scoop the mixture onto the center, then use the wrap to shape it into a tight ball. Chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to firm up.
4. Before serving, roll the ball in chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere. Garnish with extra dill.

The smoky salmon and crunchy pecans create a dreamy contrast, while the lemon and dill brighten every bite. Bonus: It’s even better made ahead!

Tip: For extra flair, serve with cucumber slices or everything bagel chips.

Pimento Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This creamy, tangy cheese ball is a Southern classic with just the right kick—perfect for spreading on crackers or serving at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth.
2. Add the shredded cheddar, pimentos, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until fully combined.
3. Scrape the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and shape into a ball. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to firm up.
4. Before serving, roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere.

The smoky paprika and sharp cheddar give this cheese ball a bold flavor, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Tip: For extra heat, stir in a few dashes of hot sauce before chilling.

Blue Cheese and Walnut Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This rich, tangy cheese ball is a crowd-pleaser—perfect for spreading on crackers or pairing with fresh fruit for an effortless yet elegant appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 oz crumbled blue cheese
• 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts, plus 1/4 cup for coating
• 2 tbsp minced fresh chives
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth. Add the blue cheese, 1/2 cup walnuts, chives, garlic powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until fully combined.
2. Scrape the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape into a ball, then wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to firm up.
3. Before serving, spread the remaining 1/4 cup walnuts on a plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the walnuts, pressing gently to adhere.

The bold blue cheese and toasty walnuts create a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy—ideal for impressing guests without fuss.

Tip: For easier shaping, lightly wet your hands before rolling the mixture into a ball.

Caramelized Onion Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This rich, savory cheese ball is a crowd-pleaser with its sweet caramelized onions and tangy cream cheese—perfect for spreading on crackers or crusty bread.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans (for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter. Add thinly sliced yellow onion, 1 tsp brown sugar, and 1/4 tsp salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25–30 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized. Let cool slightly.
2. In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 cup chopped chives until combined. Fold in the caramelized onions.
3. Shape the mixture into a ball, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
4. Roll the chilled cheese ball in chopped toasted pecans and garnish with extra chives. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette.

The caramelized onions add a jammy sweetness that balances the sharp cheddar and creamy base—ideal for making ahead and letting the flavors meld.

Tip: For extra depth, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture.

Chipotle Lime Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This zesty, smoky cheese ball is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—perfect for game day or your next potluck, with just the right kick of heat and tang.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 1 tsp chipotle powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup finely chopped cilantro
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar, lime juice, lime zest, chipotle powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt until fully combined.
2. Fold in the chopped cilantro, then scrape the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape into a ball and wrap tightly. Chill for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to firm up.
3. Before serving, spread the chopped pecans on a plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it gently in the pecans, pressing lightly to adhere.
4. Serve with crackers or veggie sticks. The cheese ball can sit at room temperature for 20 minutes for easier spreading.

The smoky chipotle and bright lime balance each other beautifully, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch. It’s a flavor bomb that disappears fast!

Tip: For extra heat, add an extra 1/2 tsp chipotle powder or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.

Pesto Parmesan Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This creamy, herby cheese ball is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—perfect for spreading on crackers or crusty bread at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup prepared basil pesto
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
• 1/4 cup chopped toasted pine nuts (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 1 minute.
2. Add the Parmesan cheese, pesto, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a ball with lightly greased hands, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours) to firm up.
4. Before serving, roll the cheese ball in toasted pine nuts (and sun-dried tomatoes, if using) until evenly coated.

The pesto adds a bright, fresh flavor to the rich cream cheese, while the pine nuts give it a satisfying crunch—no one will guess how simple it is to make!

Tip: For extra flavor, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant before rolling.

Sweet and Spicy Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This crowd-pleasing cheese ball balances creamy richness with a kick of heat and a touch of sweetness—perfect for game day or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, honey, sriracha, garlic powder, and smoked paprika with a hand mixer until fully combined and smooth.
2. Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on the counter. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the center, then use the plastic wrap to shape it into a tight ball. Chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to firm up.
3. Just before serving, mix the pecans and chives on a plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly.

The contrast of sticky-sweet honey, fiery sriracha, and crunchy pecans makes this cheese ball impossible to resist—it’s always the first appetizer to disappear!

Tip: For extra heat, drizzle with an extra teaspoon of sriracha before serving.

Taco Seasoned Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This zesty cheese ball is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, packed with bold taco flavors and the perfect creamy texture for dipping.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips (for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 1 minute.
2. Add the shredded cheddar, green onions, taco seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until fully combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a ball with clean hands, then roll it in the crushed tortilla chips until evenly coated.
4. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to let the flavors meld and firm up.

The smoky paprika and crunchy tortilla coating take this classic appetizer to the next level—ideal for game day or potlucks!

Tip: For extra heat, swap in pepper jack cheese or add a pinch of cayenne to the seasoning mix.

Lemon Dill Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

Bright, tangy, and herby, this lemon dill cheese ball is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—perfect for spreading on crackers or veggies at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, fresh dill (2 tbsp), lemon zest (1 tbsp), lemon juice (1 tbsp), garlic powder (1 tsp), salt (1/2 tsp), and black pepper (1/4 tsp). Mix until fully blended.
2. Shape the mixture into a ball using a spatula or your hands (lightly oiled to prevent sticking). Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.
3. Spread the chopped pecans on a plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it gently in the pecans, pressing lightly to adhere.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy (up to 2 days ahead).

The zesty lemon and fresh dill cut through the richness of the cream cheese, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch—no one can resist this flavor combo!

Tip: For extra freshness, garnish with a sprinkle of extra dill and lemon zest right before serving.

Chocolate Hazelnut Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This sweet and creamy cheese ball is like dessert dip meets cheesecake—perfect for spreading on graham crackers or fruit at your next gathering!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup finely chopped toasted hazelnuts

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, and 1 tsp vanilla with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
2. Fold in 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread until fully combined, then gently stir in 1/4 cup of the mini chocolate chips.
3. Scoop the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap, shape into a ball, and chill for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight).
4. Just before serving, roll the ball in the remaining 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips and 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts until fully coated.

The contrast of the crunchy nut coating and the velvety chocolate center makes this a showstopper—no one will guess it only takes 10 minutes of active prep!

Tip: For easier shaping, lightly wet your hands before rolling the mixture into a ball.

Maple Bacon Cheese Ball with Cream Cheese

This sweet-savory cheese ball is the ultimate party starter—packed with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a hint of maple for a crowd-pleasing bite.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 strips cooked bacon, crumbled (reserve 2 tbsp for garnish)
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (reserve 1 tbsp for garnish)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the cheddar cheese, 4 strips’ worth of crumbled bacon, maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and green onions (minus the reserved 1 tbsp) until fully combined.
2. Shape the mixture into a ball using a spatula or your hands (lightly oiled to prevent sticking). Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
3. Before serving, roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere. Sprinkle the reserved bacon and green onions on top.

The maple syrup caramelizes slightly against the salty bacon, creating a flavor that’s impossible to resist—especially when paired with crunchy pecans.

Tip: For extra smokiness, swap regular bacon for thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon.

Conclusion

With 20 irresistible cream cheese ball recipes, there’s something here for every occasion—whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a tasty snack. We hope you found a few favorites to try! Don’t forget to leave a comment with your top pick and share this roundup on Pinterest so others can enjoy these cheesy delights too. Happy mixing, rolling, and dipping!