Save Charming, bite-sized cheese balls shaped like acorns, coated with nuts and herbs—perfect for autumn gatherings and festive entertaining.
I have served these at every fall party and they always disappear first.
Ingredients
- Cheese Mixture: 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened, 120 g (1 cup) sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded, 2 tablespoons chives, finely chopped, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, Pinch of salt
- Coating & Decoration: 60 g (1/2 cup) finely chopped toasted pecans, 60 g (1/2 cup) finely chopped parsley or fresh dill, 24 mini pretzel sticks, 24 small rosemary leaves (optional, for acorn stems)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, chives, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Step 2:
- Scoop out heaping teaspoons of the cheese mixture and roll them into small oval or acorn shapes using your hands.
- Step 3:
- Roll the top half of each cheese ball in the chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere. Roll the bottom half in parsley or dill for contrast.
- Step 4:
- Insert a mini pretzel stick into the top of each cheese ball to resemble an acorn stem. Add a rosemary leaf if desired.
- Step 5:
- Arrange acorn cheese balls on a serving platter. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving for best texture.
Save This recipe always brings the family together during holiday prep.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture. Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred. Serve with assorted crackers or sliced vegetables. Acorn cheese balls can be made up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, hand mixer or sturdy spoon, measuring spoons and cups, small ice cream scoop or tablespoon (optional), knife and cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, cheddar) and tree nuts (pecans). Contains gluten if using regular pretzel sticks—use gluten-free pretzels for a GF option. Always check labels for potential allergens.
Save Enjoy these delightful bites as a festive appetizer that’s easy to prepare and sure to please guests.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I shape the cheese balls into acorns?
Use your hands to roll the cheese mixture into small oval shapes, slightly tapered at one end to mimic acorns.
- → Can I substitute the pecans for other nuts?
Yes, finely chopped walnuts or almonds work well as alternatives to pecans for the coating.
- → What can I use instead of parsley or dill for the herb coating?
Fresh thyme or chives can be used to provide a different herbal note while maintaining a fresh contrast.
- → How should I store the finished cheese bites?
Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container and consume within 24 hours for the best texture and flavor.
- → Are these bites suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, as long as gluten-free pretzel sticks or alternatives are used for the stems.