California Walnut Cheese Ball

By California Walnuts
Total Time
27 Mins
Serves
10
Meal
Snack
Course
Appetizers

DESCRIPTION

Try this retro holiday appetizer with crunchy walnuts. Serve with assorted crackers for the ultimate wine complement.

Prep Time
20 Mins
Cook Time
7 Mins
Total Time
27 Mins
Calories
253 cal
Total Fat
23 g
Polyunsaturated Fat
3 g
Cholesterol
60 mg
Sodium
236 mg
Carbohydrates
2 g
Dietary Fiber
0 g
Protein
9 g

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cheddar cheese, white, old, shredded
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoon chives, fresh, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon port or sherry, optional
  • 1/2-3/4 cup California walnut pieces, toasted

Preparation

  1. In food processor, combine all ingredients except walnuts. Pulse until mixture is smooth. Remove to medium bowl; cover and chill until slightly firm. Shape into 5-inch ball or roll into 7 x 2-inch log.
  2. Roll in toasted walnuts to coat evenly. Wrap in plastic wrap; chill until firm. Allow to warm at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. May be kept in refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Toasted Walnuts

  1. Oven: Spread chopped walnuts evenly onto a baking sheet or in a shallow pan. Bake at 350º F for 5 to 7 minutes or until lightly browned. Stir several times for even toasting. Be sure to keep an eye on them, they burn easily. Cool before using.
  2. Microwave: In glass pie plate spread 3/4 cup walnuts in a single layer. Microwave on HIGH 5 to 6 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes. Cool before using.
  3. Skillet: In large, dry skillet over medium-high heat, heat walnuts until lightly toasted, about 1 to 2 minutes.