Gorgonzola Cheese Ball π§ππ
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 12
Description
Intense flavors collide in this delightful cheese spread, where the bold gorgonzola meets the subtle anise essence of Sambuca, and the crisp nuttiness of pine nuts adds a satisfying crunch. This heavenly mix practically begs to be savored on a fresh, juicy slice of pear or apple! Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive Christmas gathering, a cozy Thanksgiving brunch, or a quick fix for appetizers in under 15 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup gorgonzola cheese
- 1 cup Roquefort cheese
- 1 1/2 cups cream cheese
- 1 cup pine nuts
- Fresh pear wedges, for serving
- Fresh apple wedges, for serving
Instructions
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a food processor, combine the gorgonzola, Roquefort cheese, and cream cheese. Process for about 1 minute until smooth and well blended. |
| 2 | Spoon the cheese mixture into a small bowl, cover it, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. |
| 3 | Once chilled, shape the cold cheese mixture into a ball. Roll the ball in the toasted pine nuts until evenly coated. |
| 4 | Return the cheese ball to the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. |
| 5 | When it’s time to enjoy, serve the Gorgonzola Cheese Ball with an array of assorted crackers, pear wedges, and apple wedges. |
Tips
- Cheese Choices: Gorgonzola and Roquefort cheeses offer a tangy and robust flavor profile, but you can adjust the ratios to your liking.
- Make Ahead: This cheese ball can be prepared ahead of time! Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before rolling it in nuts, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Toasting Nuts: For extra depth of flavor, lightly toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
- Pairing Perfection: The creamy richness of this cheese ball pairs beautifully with the crisp sweetness of fresh pear and apple wedges. It’s also fantastic with a variety of crackers, from simple water crackers to hearty whole grain varieties.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 208.4
- Total Fat: 19.7g
- Saturated Fat: 8.2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 319.8mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2.4g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.4g
- Sugars: 0.5g
- Protein: 7g
Serving Suggestions
- Arrange the Gorgonzola Cheese Ball on a beautiful platter surrounded by an assortment of crackers, pear slices, and apple wedges.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a pop of color and flavor.
- For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a bit of honey over the cheese ball just before serving.
Impress Your Guests!
Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday gathering or a casual brunch with friends, this Gorgonzola Cheese Ball is sure to be a hit! Its rich, creamy texture and complex flavors will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy the blend of tangy cheeses, crunchy pine nuts, and the natural sweetness of fresh fruitsβit’s a taste sensation that’s perfect for any occasion! π
