Description
Dill Pickle Cheddar Delight merges sharp cheddar’s boldness with tangy pickle crunch in a mouthwatering snack experience. Creamy cheese and zesty pickle notes dance together, creating an irresistible flavor combination you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) chopped dill pickles
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded cheddar cheese
Flavor Enhancers:
- 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) fresh chopped dill
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Coating Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded or chopped cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) fresh chopped dill
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Prepare the base mixture by utilizing a hand mixer to combine cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until achieving a silky, aerated consistency, which typically requires 1-2 minutes of blending.
- Introduce additional flavor components by gently incorporating shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped pickles, and freshly minced dill into the cream cheese foundation, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Create a wrapping station by positioning two perpendicular plastic wrap strips on a clean, flat surface, then carefully transfer the seasoned cheese mixture to the center of the intersecting wrap.
- Gather the plastic wrap edges, carefully twisting and molding the mixture into a compact, spherical shape, securing it tightly to maintain structural integrity.
- Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for a minimum of 2 hours (or up to 24 hours), allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up completely.
- Prepare the exterior coating by spreading additional shredded cheddar, freshly chopped dill, and finely grated lemon zest across a clean surface.
- Gently unwrap the chilled cheese ball and methodically roll it through the prepared coating, applying light pressure to ensure an even, complete coverage of toppings.
- Transfer the finished cheese ball to an elegant serving platter, accompanied by an assortment of crisp crackers or artisan bread slices for an appealing presentation.
Notes
- Maximize flavor by using high-quality sharp cheddar cheese and crisp dill pickles for a tangy, bold taste sensation.
- Chill the cheese ball thoroughly to help it set and develop a firmer texture, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Customize toppings by adding chopped nuts or extra herbs for additional crunch and visual appeal.
- Prepare ahead of time as this appetizer can be made up to 3 days in advance, perfect for stress-free entertaining.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, maintaining optimal freshness and flavor.
- Serve at room temperature to enhance the creamy texture and allow the cheese’s complex flavors to fully develop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 301 kcal
- Sugar: 1.2 g
- Sodium: 425 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 3.5 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg