Description
A Champagne-Infused Cheese Ball is a luxurious twist on the classic cheese ball appetizer. It features a blend of rich cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and tangy goat or blue cheese, all brought together with a splash of Champagne or sparkling wine. The result is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor profile that will have your guests raving. This cheese ball is then rolled in a crunchy, colorful coating of nuts, dried fruit, and herbs, making it visually appealing and delightful to eat.
Ingredients
For the Cheese Ball:
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese (or Gruyère for a more refined flavor)
½ cup crumbled goat cheese or blue cheese (optional, for tang)
3 tbsp Champagne or sparkling wine (dry or brut style works best)
2 tbsp honey or fig jam
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Coating:
½ cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (for crunch)
¼ cup chopped dried cranberries or cherries (for color and sweetness)
1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley (optional for freshness)
Instructions
Mix the Cheese Base:
In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, cheddar, and goat cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add the Champagne, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix until fully combined — the texture should be soft but not runny.
Shape and Chill:
Scoop the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap.
Form it into a ball (or a heart shape for Valentine’s Day 💕).
Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
Prepare the Coating:
In a small bowl, combine the chopped nuts, dried cranberries, and parsley.
Roll and Serve:
Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it gently in the nut mixture until evenly coated.
Place on a serving plate and let sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for best spreadability.
Notes
For an elegant touch, roll the cheese ball in finely chopped nuts, herbs, or edible glitter before serving. Pair it with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh fruit for a festive appetizer that’s perfect for holiday celebrations or New Year’s Eve parties!
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (about 40g)
- Calories: 180
Keywords: Sparkling cheese ball, bubbly cheese appetizer, festive cheese ball, Champagne cheese ball recipe