Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Reindeer Cheese Ball

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Cook Time: N/A (no cooking required)
  • Total Time: 4–6 hours (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 1 cheese ball (serves about 10–12 people) 1x
  • Category: Appetizer, Holiday Recipes, Party Food
  • Method: No-bake, chilled
  • Cuisine: American, Holiday
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Celebrate the holiday season with this adorable and delicious Reindeer Cheese Ball! Made with a creamy blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and ranch seasoning, this festive treat is sure to be the star of your party spread. Coated in crunchy pecans and decorated like a reindeer with pretzels, olives, and a cherry tomato, this fun appetizer is perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Ball Base:

  • 2 blocks cream cheese (8 ounces each), softened
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 8 ounces medium cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2–3 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix

Coating and Decorations:

  • 2 cups roughly chopped pecans (for coating)
  • 2 black olives (medium-sized, pitted, for eyes)
  • 1 cherry tomato (for the nose)
  • 2 regular-sized pretzels (for the antlers)

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme (for a festive touch)
  • Crackers or pretzel sticks (for serving alongside the cheese ball)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Creamy Base:
    Beat the cream cheese and sour cream together in a large mixing bowl until smooth and lump-free.
  • Add the Cheddar and Ranch Seasoning:
    Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and ranch seasoning until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed for a stronger flavor.
  • Shape the Cheese Ball:
    Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on your countertop. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the center, and use the wrap to form it into a round ball. Refrigerate for 4–6 hours or overnight.
  • Coat with Pecans:
    Spread chopped pecans on a plate and gently roll the chilled cheese ball in the pecans, pressing lightly to coat evenly.
  • Add the Reindeer Decorations:
    Insert pretzels into the top for antlers, olives for eyes, and a cherry tomato for the nose. Secure the tomato with a toothpick if needed.
  • Serve with Style:
    Transfer the cheese ball to a platter, and serve with crackers, pretzel sticks, or vegetable slices. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Notes

  • Refrigerating the cheese ball overnight enhances the flavors and helps it firm up for easy shaping.
  • The pecan coating can be replaced with other nuts if preferred.
  • Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning for a milder or stronger flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/12 of the cheese ball)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://grandmarecipesflash.com/reindeer-cheese-ball/