Festive Reindeer Cheese Ball (Print-Friendly Version)

Creamy blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and pecans crafted into a festive reindeer centerpiece for holiday parties.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dairy and Mix

01 - 227 g cream cheese, softened to room temperature
02 - 120 g sour cream

→ Cheese

03 - 150 g sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

→ Seasoning

04 - 30 g ranch seasoning mix (approximately 2 tablespoons), adjust to taste

→ Toppings and Garnishes

05 - 80 g chopped pecans
06 - 2 pretzels for antlers
07 - 2 black olives for eyes
08 - 1 cherry tomato for nose
09 - Crackers, to serve
10 - Fresh herbs (optional), for garnish

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream together with a hand mixer until smooth and fully integrated.
02 - Add the shredded cheddar and 2 tablespoons of ranch seasoning mix to the bowl. Beat until evenly combined. Taste and add additional seasoning if desired, then mix thoroughly.
03 - Place a large sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Transfer the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and use it to mold the mixture into a tight ball. Twist the wrap closed and refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours, preferably overnight.
04 - Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and lay it on a plate or shallow bowl filled with chopped pecans. Press the pecans firmly into the surface covering the ball evenly.
05 - Insert two pretzels into the top of the cheese ball, pressing deeply enough for them to stand upright as antlers.
06 - Secure two black olives for eyes and place one cherry tomato for the nose on the cheese ball. Use toothpicks or pretzel sticks if necessary to hold them in place.
07 - Arrange crackers around the cheese ball on the serving platter and optionally add fresh herbs for a festive presentation.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Allowing the cheese ball to chill overnight improves firmness and enhances melding of flavors.
02 - This cheese ball can be prepared up to three days in advance; store covered in the refrigerator.
03 - Leftovers should be refrigerated with decorations removed and wrapped airtight, best consumed within 5 to 7 days.

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