Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive Presentation: Its carrot shape and vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece for your table.
Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of preparation, you can create a delicious appetizer without much effort.
Versatile Pairing: Perfectly complements a variety of crackers, fresh vegetables, or even sliced baguette.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of cream cheese and cheddar cheese is a classic that appeals to many.

Ingredients

16 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
8 oz. shredded cheddar cheese, divided
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Fresh parsley sprigs (for garnish)
Crackers (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, dried oregano, dried parsley, Tabasco sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Using a hand mixer, blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Shape the Cheese Ball:
- Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap.
- Mold the mixture into a carrot shape, ensuring it’s compact and holds together.
- Wrap the shaped cheese ball tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up.
Coat and Garnish:
- Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator.
- Place the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on a serving platter.
- Unwrap the cheese ball and gently roll it in the shredded cheddar, pressing lightly to adhere the cheese to the surface.
- Arrange fresh parsley sprigs at the top to resemble carrot greens.
Serve:
- Place the carrot cheese ball on a serving board surrounded by crackers.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields one 4”x8” cheese ball, serving approximately 8-10 people.
Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
Chill Time: At least 1 hour.
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Variations

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Tabasco sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
Cheese Options: Incorporate other cheeses like Monterey Jack or cream cheese with herbs for a different flavor profile.
Add-ins: Mix in finely chopped green onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the cheese ball covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This cheese ball can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version of this appetizer.

How can I make this cheese ball spicier?

Increase the amount of Tabasco sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.

Can I prepare this cheese ball ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the cheese ball itself is gluten-free. Ensure that the crackers you serve are also gluten-free if needed.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese often melts and binds better, resulting in a smoother texture for the cheese ball.

Conclusion

This Carrot Cheese Ball is a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that adds a festive touch to any gathering. Its creamy texture and savory flavors are sure to be a hit with your guests. Whether you’re hosting an Easter celebration or a springtime party, this cheese ball is a charming and delicious addition to your menu.