Pin this A whimsical and festive appetizer featuring three creamy cheese balls shaped and decorated as cheerful snowmen—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This appetizer was a hit at my family's last holiday party, bringing smiles and starting great conversations.
Ingredients
- Cheese Mixture: 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese softened, 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 green onions finely chopped, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, Salt to taste
- Decorations: 12–15 whole black peppercorns (for eyes/buttons), 3 small carrot sticks (for noses), 1/2 red bell pepper sliced into strips (for scarves), 3 thin pretzel sticks (for arms), Fresh parsley or dill sprigs (optional for hats/scarves), Crackers and fresh vegetables for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Step 2:
- Divide the mixture into three portions one large (for the base), one medium (for the middle), and one small (for the head) for each snowman. Roll each portion into smooth balls.
- Step 3:
- On a serving platter, stack the cheese balls in snowman shapes (largest at the bottom, smallest on top).
- Step 4:
- Decorate each snowman use peppercorns for eyes and buttons, carrot sticks for noses, bell pepper strips for scarves, and pretzel sticks for arms. Add parsley or dill for extra flair if desired.
- Step 5:
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up before serving.
- Step 6:
- Serve with crackers and fresh vegetables.
Pin this This recipe has become a beloved tradition that brings the whole family together for festive fun and tasty memories.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Rubber spatula or spoon, Serving platter, Small knife
Allergen Information
Contains Milk/Dairy (cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan). May contain Gluten (if served with regular crackers use gluten-free options as needed). Contains Wheat (pretzel arms omit or substitute for gluten-free option if needed). Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 180, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 2 g, Protein 9 g per serving (cheese ball only approx)
Pin this Enjoy this festive appetizer that's sure to be the star of your holiday table.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What cheeses are used in the snowman balls?
The mixture includes cream cheese, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan for a creamy, flavorful blend.
- → How are the snowman shapes formed?
The cheese mixture is divided into three differently sized balls stacked vertically to resemble a snowman shape.
- → What decorations are used for the snowman features?
Whole black peppercorns serve as eyes and buttons, carrot sticks form noses, red bell pepper strips mimic scarves, and pretzel sticks create arms.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, the cheese balls can be shaped and decorated up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated until needed.
- → Are there gluten-free serving suggestions?
Serving with gluten-free crackers or fresh vegetables ensures a gluten-free friendly option.