Creamy Everything Bagel Seasoned Cheese Ball
A quick and easy creamy cheese ball seasoned with everything bagel seasoning, perfect for casual gatherings and snacks. This recipe combines cream cheese and sharp cheddar with a flavorful seasoning blend for a nostalgic yet fresh appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional mix-ins: ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon, chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), or minced jalapeño
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwaving in 10-second bursts until soft but not melted (about 20-30 seconds).
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix with a hand mixer on low speed or vigorously by hand until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until flavors are evenly distributed.
- Fold in chopped fresh chives.
- Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center and use the wrap to form a tight ball, twisting the ends to secure the shape.
- Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for at least 1 hour, ideally 2 hours, to firm up and let flavors meld.
- Pour everything bagel seasoning onto a small plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it gently in the seasoning, pressing lightly to coat evenly.
- Serve on a platter with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies for dipping.
Notes
[‘Use full-fat cream cheese for best creaminess and texture.’, ‘Chill the cheese ball for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and to firm up the shape.’, ‘If the mixture is too stiff, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen.’, ‘Serve at room temperature by letting it sit out for about 20 minutes before serving for easier spreading.’, ‘Optional mix-ins like bacon, nuts, or jalapeño can add extra flavor and texture.’, ‘For a vegan version, substitute with plant-based cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives.’, ‘If seasoning slides off, chill longer before coating.’, ‘Store wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.’]
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 2 tabl
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 13
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 5
Keywords: cheese ball, everything bagel seasoning, creamy cheese ball, party appetizer, easy snack, cream cheese, sharp cheddar