Description
These adorable Baby Chick Mini Cheese Balls are the perfect festive appetizer for Easter or any spring gathering. Made with creamy cheddar and cream cheese, they’re rolled in shredded cheese and decorated to resemble baby chicks—almost too cute to eat! They’re fun to make, deliciously savory, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table.
Ingredients
For the Cheese Ball Base:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
For the Chick Decorations:
- 1 carrot (or 3 baby carrots), cut into small triangles (for beaks) and thin slices (for feet)
- 40 black peppercorns or tiny pieces of black olives (for eyes)
For Serving:
- 20 round crackers
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and mix until fully incorporated.
- Shape the Cheese Balls: Using a small spoon or 1-inch cookie scoop, form 20 mini cheese balls and roll them in your hands until smooth.
- Coat the Cheese Balls: Place the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on a plate. Roll each cheese ball in the cheese to create a fluffy, chick-like coating.
- Decorate the Chicks:
- Press two black peppercorns (or olive pieces) into each cheese ball for eyes.
- Insert a small carrot triangle for the beak.
- Arrange two small carrot slices at the base to resemble feet.
- Assemble and Serve: Place each cheese ball on a round cracker for stability and serve immediately.
Notes
- Make Ahead Tip: Prepare the cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container. Assemble the chicks just before serving for the best texture.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.
- Serving Suggestions: These cheese balls pair wonderfully with fresh vegetables, pretzel sticks, or crispy breadsticks.
- Customizations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne for a little spice.
- Swap sharp cheddar for smoked cheddar for a different depth of flavor.
- Use finely chopped nuts instead of extra cheese for coating variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers, Snacks
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American, Holiday