Sweet & Spicy White Cheddar Cheese Ball with Apples & Bacon

November 15, 2024

45

medium

24

This Sweet & Spicy White Cheddar Cheese Ball with Apples & Bacon is a stunning appetizer that delivers bold flavor in every bite. Sharp New York cheddar blends with creamy cheese, tart brandy-marinated apples, and a touch of cayenne for just the right amount of heat. The result is a smooth, flavorful cheese ball with a zesty kick and a hint of sweetness.

Rolled in a crunchy coating of smoky bacon, toasted pecans, and brown sugar, this cheese ball is both decadent and inviting. Paired with crisp apple slices and your favorite crackers, it’s a crowd-pleasing centerpiece perfect for parties, holidays, or whenever you want to impress with minimal effort.

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Ingredients:

Adjust Servings
0.5cup apple dried
2teaspoons applejack brandy (I used 1 T. of Finger Lakes Distilling Maplejack)
1teaspoon maple syrup pure
6slices bacon
8ounces lowfat cream cheese softened, (NOT nonfat)
10ounces adams reserve new york extra sharp cheddar cheese shredded
0.25teaspoon cayenne pepper
2teaspoons brown sugar dark
1cup trader joes and spicy pecans sweet

Directions

1.
Prepare the Apples
1. Slice the apples and place them in a small dish. | 2. Drizzle with brandy and maple syrup, then set aside to marinate while you prepare the rest of the recipe.
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2.
Cook the Bacon
1. In a large skillet, fry the bacon over medium heat, turning frequently, until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). | 2. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon and set aside.
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3.
Make the Cheese Ball Mixture
1. In a food processor, combine cream cheese, Adams Reserve New York Extra Sharp Cheddar, cayenne pepper, and the finely chopped apples. | 2. Pulse until the mixture is thoroughly mixed and smooth. Set aside.
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4.
Prepare the Bacon Pecan Coating
1. In a mini food processor (or cleaned regular processor), combine pecans, brown sugar, and the crumbled bacon. | 2. Pulse until finely chopped and well mixed.
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5.
Form the Cheese Ball
1. Use a spatula to transfer the cheese mixture onto a cutting board. | 2. Lightly wet your hands and shape the cheese mixture into a ball. | 3. Roll the cheese ball in the bacon-pecan mixture, pressing gently to coat the entire surface.
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6.
Serve
Arrange the cheese ball on a serving platter with crackers and the marinated apple slices (dip the apple slices in a mixture of lemon juice and water to prevent browning).
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7.
Enjoy
Serve immediately, or chill until ready to serve. Enjoy your sweet, spicy, and savory cheese ball!
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Recipe content adapted from Foodista, modified and licensed under CC BY 3.0.

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