Cheese Ball Wreath Holiday

Cheese ball wreath brings big holiday energy to the party table with minimal effort. It starts with a flavorful cheese ball base pressed into a bundt pan then decorated to look just like a sparkling Christmas wreath with olives, peppers and herb confetti. It is always the centerpiece of my appetizer spread and disappears fast.

This is the appetizer my family requests most every Christmas Eve. My kids love helping decorate the wreath and sneaking extra olives from the top.

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: for the creamy tangy base use full fat for best flavor
• Shredded cheddar cheese: brings meltiness and bold cheddar flavor buy a high quality block and shred it yourself
• Cooked bacon: adds smoky savory richness chop it small so every bite gets some
• Jarred roasted red peppers: give sweetness and color pat dry before chopping to avoid extra liquid
• Green onions: for a sharp fresh pop use both green and white parts
• Rosemary and parsley: both add fresh herbal notes always choose herbs that look vibrant and green
• Onion powder and garlic powder: boost savory depth be sure spices are fresh for best taste
• Kosher salt: brings all the flavors together measure carefully so the cheese does not get too salty
• Parsley and green onions for topping: for a fresh garnish on top
• Pitted black and green olives: for festive color and briny bite look for firm glossy olives without cracks
• More roasted red peppers for decorating: buy whole and dice small for easy sprinkling
• Crackers or pretzels for serving: choose sturdy crackers that hold up to scooping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Line the Pan:

Line the inside of a 12 cup bundt or tube pan with plastic wrap pressing it into all the corners so you can easily lift out the wreath later

Mix the Cheese Base:

Combine the softened cream cheese shredded cheddar bacon chopped peppers green onions rosemary parsley onion powder garlic powder and salt in a large bowl Mix by hand or with a stand mixer until fully combined and even

Shape the Wreath:

Scoop the mixture into your lined pan Press it firmly using a spatula to remove any air gaps Smooth the top so it looks neat

Chill the Cheese Ball:

Cover the pan and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour The flavors blend best if you can chill it longer even overnight

Unmold the Cheese Ball:

Lift the cheese ball wreath out using the plastic wrap and place it onto your serving platter Remove the plastic and smooth edges if needed

Decorate:

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and green onions Then press black and green olive halves evenly around the wreath Fill spaces with diced roasted red pepper Tuck in fresh parsley sprigs for the final touch

Serve:

Set out with crackers pretzels bread and crunchy veggies Let everyone dig in and watch it vanish

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Roasted red peppers are always my favorite part to add because of the bright pop of color and sweet tang They remind me of holiday appetizers my mom used to make and tasting them brings back those memories every year as we serve this on Christmas Eve

Storage Tips

Wrap leftover cheese ball tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container It keeps well in the fridge for up to four days If you decorate with fresh herbs just be aware they may wilt slightly after a day but the flavor will still be lovely

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap cooked bacon with chopped smoked turkey or vegetarian bacon bits if you prefer Omit bacon for a vegetarian version Try swapping cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra zip No olives on hand top with dried cranberries toasted nuts or extra chopped herbs for a different festive look

Serving Suggestions

Set the wreath in the center of a large platter and surround with a variety of crackers breadsticks or sliced baguette Include crisp veggies like cucumber spears carrot sticks and sweet mini peppers for scooping It is also fun to add a dish of honey mustard or chutney for guests to pair with bites

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Cultural and Festive Roots

Cheese balls are a classic North American party staple and shaping them into a wreath brings a playful festive twist That green and red topping scheme is pure holiday cheer and always looks like something you would see on Grandma’s Christmas table in family photo albums

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I shape the cheese ball into a wreath?

Press the cheese mixture evenly into a lined bundt or tube pan, chill until firm, then unmold onto a platter to reveal the wreath shape.

→ What toppings can I use for decoration?

Sprinkle with finely chopped parsley, green onions, olives, and roasted red peppers. Add cranberries or nuts for extra color and texture.

→ How far ahead can I prepare the cheese ball wreath?

You can assemble and chill up to 24 hours in advance. Decorate just before serving for best freshness and presentation.

→ What are good serving options?

Pair with crackers, sliced baguette, pretzels, or fresh vegetables. The wreath is great for sharing at parties.

→ Can I use different cheeses or mix-ins?

Yes, feel free to substitute different shredded cheeses, or add nuts, seeds, or extra herbs to suit your taste preferences.