Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 (5 oz) package of Liederkranz cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup of chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 tsp of garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp of onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and Liederkranz cheese. Use an electric mixer to blend the cheeses until smooth.
2. Add the chopped pecans, fresh chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Place a sheet of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and shape it into a ball.
4. Wrap the cheese ball tightly with the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake the cheese ball for 10-12 minutes or until it is slightly golden brown on the outside.
8. Remove the cheese ball from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Refrigeration time: 2 hours or overnight
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
Baking temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
This recipe makes one cheese ball. It serves 8-10 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 180
Total fat: 17g
Saturated fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total carbohydrates: 3g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of pecans, you can use walnuts or almonds.
- Instead of fresh chives, you can use dried chives or green onions.
- Instead of Liederkranz cheese, you can use Boursin cheese or blue cheese.
Variations:
- You can add chopped dried cranberries or apricots to the cheese mixture for a sweet and savory flavor.
- You can roll the cheese ball in chopped bacon or toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese and Liederkranz cheese are softened before mixing them together.
- Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
- If the cheese ball is too soft to shape, refrigerate it for a few more minutes until it is firm enough to mold.
Storage instructions:
- Store the cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the cheese ball, place it on a baking sheet and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until it is heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Place the cheese ball on a decorative platter and surround it with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.
- Garnish the cheese ball with fresh herbs or edible flowers.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary
- Edible flowers such as pansies or nasturtiums
Pairings:
- Serve the cheese ball with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers
- Crackers or sliced baguette
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese ball is too soft, refrigerate it for a few more minutes until it is firm enough to mold.
- If the cheese ball is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all equipment before preparing the recipe.
- Keep the cheese ball refrigerated until ready to serve.
Food history:
- Liederkranz cheese was first produced in New York in the late 1800s. It is a soft, creamy cheese with a pungent aroma and flavor.
Flavor profiles:
- The Liederkranz cheese ball has a rich, creamy flavor with a nutty crunch from the pecans and a hint of garlic and onion.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the cheese ball as an appetizer or snack at a party or gathering.
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