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Peppermint Cheese Ball Recipe

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If you’re looking for a holiday dessert to impress your guests, look no further than the Peppermint Cheese Ball Recipe. This delightful treat combines the creamy cheese texture with the refreshing zing of peppermint. Whether hosting a festive gathering or planning a party, this recipe is bound to be a showstopper.

Want more delicious starter ideas? These Cheese Ball Recipes are a must! There are so many DIY cheese balls to make in so little time!

photo collage of holiday cheese ball with cookies with text which reads peppermint cheese ball easy and delicious

While the Peppermint Cheese Ball is perfect for holiday gatherings, you can adapt this recipe for different occasions. For instance, adding a hint of orange zest creates a refreshing variation suitable for summer parties.

Experimentation with other flavorings, such as maple or vanilla, can also lead to new combinations that keep your dessert presentations exciting throughout the year.

Check out this giant list of Appetizers and Recipes for Your Next Party!

Peppermint Cheese Ball Recipe

The creamy cheese’s contrast with the crunchy texture of candy canes creates a delightful eating experience. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these cheese balls are not only visually appealing with their vibrant red and white colors but also invite conversation and curiosity among guests, making them a perfect centerpiece for your dessert table.

dessert cheese ball with peppermint flavoring with text which reads peppermint cheese ball easy and delicious

What is a Dessert Cheese Ball?

A dessert cheese ball is a sweet twist on the traditional savory cheese ball. It typically consists of cream cheese mixed with various sweet ingredients, shaped into a ball, and coated with something crunchy or colorful.

Unlike its savory counterpart, which often features herbs, spices, and nuts, a dessert cheese ball leans heavily on sweet flavors and is perfect for pairing with cookies, crackers, or fruit.

Popular Dessert Cheese Ball Variations

While the Peppermint Cheese Ball is a festive favorite, plenty of other variations are available. Some popular choices include chocolate chip cheese balls, peanut butter, and funfetti cheese balls. Each offers a unique flavor profile and can be adapted to suit any occasion.

Why Choose a Dessert Cheese Ball?

Dessert cheese balls are incredibly versatile and easy to make. They require minimal ingredients and can be prepared in advance, making them an excellent option for busy hosts. Plus, they add a touch of creativity and flair to any dessert table, ensuring your dish stands out from the crowd.

The Perfect Pairings

When serving a dessert cheese ball, think about complementary flavors and textures. Graham crackers, ginger snaps, and vanilla wafers are all excellent choices. For a healthier option, consider apple slices or strawberries, which add a fresh, juicy contrast to the creamy cheese ball.

Specialty Ingredients:

The following ingredients are affiliate links on Amazon because they may be a bit hard to find in your normal store.  I wanted you to be able to see exactly which things we are using.

Reminder, not all ingredients in the Peppermint Dessert Cheese Ball Recipe are linked above, just the ones that may be a bit difficult to find or that you might be unsure of what to look for.

Shop My Kitchen:

The following items can be found in my kitchen here at Miller Manor. Simply click the image that interests you – yes, they do contain affiliate links.

Must Have Resources:

When making a Minty Cheese Ball at home, you really need to have the following Amazon affiliate tools on hand.

Stainless Steel Cheese Slicer with Accurate Size Scale, Wire Cheese Slicer for Cheese Butter, Equipped with 4 Replaceable Cheese Slicer WiresPicnic at Ascot Bamboo Cheese Board/Charcuterie Platter - Includes 3 Ceramic Bowls with Bamboo Spoons - 13Godinger Wood Serving Tray, Charcuterie Platter Cheese Board Rainbow Sandstone - RoundSweese 123.001 Porcelain Mini Bowls - 4 Ounce for Dipping Sauces, Small Side Dishes - Set of 6, WhiteWhite Porcelain Olive Plate - Swerve Design, Beautiful Presentation - 9 Inches - 6 oz - 1ct Box - Restaurantware, Black, SmallBOSKA Copenhagen Mini Knife Set Cheese Knives, Stainless

 

Make it a Meal:

My meal planner is your secret weapon against dinnertime dread. It’s been my lifesaver, so I’ve stopped stressing out what to make! As you can see from the below example, keeping it simple is key!

Main Dish: Roasted Cauliflower Steaks Recipe

Vegetable Side: Roasted Spring Vegetables Recipe

Starch Side: Loaded Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Refreshing Drink: Copycat Starbucks Pink Drink Recipe

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Best Appetizer Recipes:

Once you make this easy Mint Cheese Ball Recipe, you’ll want to look for new recipes and ideas for a stunning pre-dinner snack table.

Here are a few of my favorites!

These 25+ Easy Crockpot Appetizers are perfect for comfort food options for a busy weeknight!

Everyone in the house will ask for more of this Wedding Charcuterie Board Recipe!

3-Tier 18.5 Inches Gold Metal Cupcake Dessert Basket Stand, Cake Snack Scones Crackers Fruits Appetizers Pastry Tiered Platters Serving Tray for Tea Party, Bridal Shower, Wedding Catered Event3-Tier Bamboo Round Cupcake Dessert Stands, Cake Snack Scones Crackers Fruits Appetizers Pastry Tiered Platters Serving Tray for Tea Party, Bridal Shower, Wedding Catered Event3-Tier Round Porcelain Cupcake Dessert Stand, Cake Snack Scones Crackers Fruits Appetizers Pastry Tiered Platters Serving Tray for Tea Party, Bridal Shower, Baby Shower, Wedding Catered Event - GoldLenox Butterfly Meadow 3-Tiered Server, 4.10 LB, Multi

 

Gather the simple ingredients needed to make this Crescent Roll Veggie Pizza!

Want something that fits the “comfort food” category? This Chili Cheese Dip is the perfect choice.

I love how this Grilled Salsa Steak Appetizer tastes! It’s the best flavor!

If you’re a chicken fan, try these Honey BBQ Chicken Wings! Check out my top recipe for Avocado Chipotle Wings!

easy holiday cheese ball on a plate with cookies with text which reads easy peppermint cheese ball

Tips to Make the Perfect Cheese Ball

Creating the perfect Peppermint Cheese Ball is easier than you might think, but a few tips and tricks can help ensure success.

Use Quality Ingredients

The key to a delicious cheese ball is using high-quality ingredients. Opt for full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and the best flavor. Fresh peppermint extract and finely crushed peppermints will also significantly improve the final product.

Softening the Cream Cheese

Many other recipes tell you to let your cheese get to room temperature before making your cheese ball. But I think it works much better if you make your cheese ball with fresh cream cheese from the fridge – and use a hand mixer to make it smooth and soft. This will allow your cheese ball to hold its shape much better than softened cheese.

Shaping and Coating the Cheese Ball

When shaping your cheese ball, use two pieces of plastic wrap to help maintain its form and prevent sticking. Once your cheese ball is shaped and unwrapped, roll it in the crushed peppermints immediately to ensure they adhere well. Chill your cheese ball for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.

Shop My Printables

These printables are great for meal planning and organizing! Simply click the image to check out my shop products!

More Peppermint Recipes:

overhead view of a peppermint cheese ball served with cookies

Peppermint Cheese Ball

Yield: 12 Servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

A unique blend of creamy and minty flavors, combined with the crunch of the coating, makes Peppermint Cheese Ball a memorable treat.

Ingredients

  • 2 8oz cream cheese blocks
  • 1 tsp Peppermint Extract
  • 1/2 cup Crushed Peppermints for Interior
  • 2 cups Crushed Peppermints for Exterior
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar

Instructions

  1. With a hand mixer, soften the cream cheese.
  2. Add powdered sugar, extract, and interior portion of crushed peppermints, then mix well.
  3. Using two pieces of plastic wrap layered in a clean bowl, place the mixture into the plastic wrap, then gently shape the mixture into a ball shape.
  4. Gently unwrap the ball and place it on a plate or serving platter, then cover the exposed exterior of the cheese ball in the crushed peppermints for the exterior.
  5. Serve immediately or chill, if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 12 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 355Total Fat: 13gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 38mgSodium: 137mgCarbohydrates: 58gFiber: 0gSugar: 40gProtein: 2g

This data was provided and calculated by Nutritionix on 8/30/2024

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