Aunt Kay’s Party Cheese Ball

🧀 Aunt Kay’s Party Cheese Ball 🎉

History:
Aunt Kay’s Party Cheese Ball is a classic and delightful appetizer that has been a staple at gatherings and parties for decades. Its origins can be traced back to the mid-20th century when cheese balls gained popularity in the United States. The concept of rolling cheese, herbs, and spices into a ball to be served with crackers or bread became a go-to party favorite.

Components:

1. Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient, providing a creamy and tangy base.
2. Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese adds a sharp and savory flavor.
3. Garlic Powder: For a touch of garlic goodness.
4. Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a delightful umami and depth of flavor.
5. Chopped Nuts (typically pecans): Provides a delightful crunch and nutty taste.
6. Green Onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
7. Parsley: For a touch of color and herbal freshness.
8. Salt and Pepper: To season the cheese mixture to taste.

Steps to Prepare Aunt Kay’s Party Cheese Ball:

1. Soften Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature, which makes it easier to blend.

2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, a pinch of garlic powder, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a mixer or a wooden spoon to thoroughly combine these ingredients until smooth and well mixed.

3. Shape into a Ball: Lay out a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper, and scoop the cheese mixture onto it. Shape it into a ball using your hands. This is where the classic cheese ball shape takes form.

4. Coat with Nuts and Herbs: In a separate dish, combine the chopped nuts, chopped green onions, and finely chopped parsley. Roll the cheese ball in this mixture until it’s evenly coated. The nuts and herbs not only add flavor but also give the cheese ball a delightful appearance.

5. Chill: Wrap the cheese ball in the plastic wrap or parchment paper and refrigerate it for at least an hour or until it’s firm. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to hold its shape.

6. Serve: Once it’s chilled, place the cheese ball on a serving plate and surround it with crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks for dipping.

Time Needed:
The preparation of Aunt Kay’s Party Cheese Ball takes around 10-15 minutes, and the chilling time in the refrigerator is approximately 1 hour. So, in total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.

Enjoy this delicious and nostalgic party treat at your gatherings! 🎈🧀😋

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Aunt Kay’s Party Cheese Ball:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for a Typical Serving):

• Calories: The calorie content can vary, but a typical serving of Aunt Kay’s Party Cheese Ball is around 100-150 calories per 2-ounce serving.

• Total Fat: Cheese and nuts contribute to the fat content. Each serving may contain around 8-12 grams of fat.

• Saturated Fat: Cheese, especially cream cheese, can be high in saturated fat. A serving may have 4-6 grams of saturated fat.

• Cholesterol: Cheese is a significant source of cholesterol. A serving may contain 15-25 mg of cholesterol.

• Sodium: Cheese and Worcestershire sauce can contribute to sodium content. A serving may contain 150-300 mg of sodium.

• Carbohydrates: A serving typically contains 2-4 grams of carbohydrates.

• Protein: A serving may have 2-3 grams of protein.

• Fiber: Aunt Kay’s Party Cheese Ball is not a significant source of dietary fiber.

• Sugars: The sugar content is minimal, usually less than 1 gram per serving.

Health Information:

1. Moderation: While Aunt Kay’s Party Cheese Ball is a delicious appetizer, it’s essential to enjoy it in moderation due to its relatively high fat and calorie content.

2. Saturated Fat: The saturated fat content is a bit high, primarily from the cheese and cream cheese. Excessive consumption of saturated fat can contribute to heart health issues, so it’s wise to limit intake.

3. Sodium: The sodium content can vary depending on the ingredients used. High sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, so be cautious, especially if you have dietary restrictions.

4. Protein: While it’s not a significant source of protein, the cheese in the recipe provides some protein content.

5. Balanced Diet: When enjoying Aunt Kay’s Party Cheese Ball, balance your overall diet by including plenty of vegetables, fruits, and other nutrient-rich foods.

Remember that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice. 🧀🥗🍏