Description
This adorable reindeer cheese ball is the perfect holiday appetizer! Creamy, cheesy, and so fun to make, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 (8 ounce) blocks cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 8 ounce block medium cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2–3 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups roughly chopped pecans
- 2 medium pitted black olives, for the eyes
- 1 cherry tomato, for the nose
- 2 regular sized pretzels, for the antlers (I used Snyder’s Olde Tyme Pretzels)
Instructions
- Mix it all together
Start by beating your softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and fluffy. Then, add the shredded cheddar cheese and ranch seasoning. Taste as you go—you want just the right level of seasoning before moving on. - Shape your cheese ball
Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on your counter. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the center and use the plastic wrap to mold it into a round ball. Twist the wrap tightly to seal, and pop it in the fridge for at least 4-6 hours (overnight is even better). This chill time helps the flavors meld and ensures the cheese ball holds its shape. - Decorate your reindeer
Once your cheese ball is chilled and firm, roll it in the chopped pecans, pressing them gently to coat evenly. Next, position your pretzels on top for antlers. Add the black olives for eyes and a cherry tomato for the nose. Use toothpicks or pretzel sticks to secure everything in place if needed. - Serve and enjoy
Arrange crackers around your reindeer cheese ball for dipping. If you want to get extra fancy, add some sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme around the plate for a festive touch.
Notes
How to serve and present your reindeer cheese ball
Set your reindeer in the center of a large platter and surround it with crackers, pretzels, or veggie sticks for dipping. For a festive touch, garnish the plate with sprigs of rosemary or cranberries to mimic holly. If you’re serving at night, a string of fairy lights around the plate adds instant holiday charm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dessert