Classic Pinecone Monterey Jack Cheese Ball Recipes

PINE CONE CHEESE BALL

Steps:

• Stir cream cheese, goat cheese, parsley, tarragon, thyme, garlic, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper together in a bowl until smooth and well-mixed.
• Turn cheese mixture out onto a serving platter and form into a tapered oval shape to resemble a pine cone.
• Starting at the tapered end, press almonds into the cheese cone so that the tip of the almond is facing out and down, and cheese cone is completely covered with almonds and resembles a pine cone. Place rosemary sprigs at the top to resemble pine needles.

CLASSIC PINECONE PEPPER JACK CHEESE BALL

Steps:

• Process first 3 ingredients in food processor until blended. Stir in chiles and cumin.
• Shape into 4-inch oval on sheet of waxed paper to resemble pinecone. Insert nuts in rows to completely cover cream cheese mixture. Transfer to serving plate.
• Refrigerate 2 hours.

CLASSIC PIMENTO CHEESE BALL

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with Reynolds Wrap® Aluminum Foil. Spread the pecans on the foil-lined sheet and toast in the oven for 7-10 minutes. Remove and allow to cool completely. When cooled, give the pecans a rough chop and return to the foil-lined baking sheet.
• In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, mix the cream cheese, garlic, pickle, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, pimentos, black pepper, hot sauce and pinch of cayenne pepper. Turn the mixer to medium speed and mix for about a minute. Transfer to a small bowl, cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days.
• Form chilled mixture into a ball, and smooth out by hand. Roll the ball in the toasted chopped pecans. Keep in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
• Serve on a plate or board with an array of crackers or veggies like carrots, celery or radishes.

CREAMY JALAPEñO PINECONE CHEESE BALL

Steps:

• Process first 3 ingredients in food processor until blended. Stir in pepper.
• Shape into 4-inch oval on sheet of waxed paper to resemble pinecone. Insert nuts in rows to completely cover cream cheese mixture. Transfer to serving plate.
• Refrigerate 2 hours.