Pin Festive and flavorful, these charcuterie board holiday snack balls bring together classic cheeses, savory meats, and sweet add-ins with crunchy coatings—a perfect appetizer for your holiday entertaining.
I first made these snack balls for our annual family holiday party—they disappeared within minutes and everyone asked for the recipe. Their bite-sized charm and festive look make them an instant favorite at any gathering.
Ingredients
- Soft goat cheese: 120 g (4 oz)
- Cream cheese: 120 g (4 oz), softened
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 100 g (3.5 oz), grated
- Prosciutto: 80 g (2.8 oz), finely chopped
- Salami: 80 g (2.8 oz), finely chopped
- Fresh chives: 2 tbsp, finely chopped
- Dried cranberries: 2 tbsp, finely chopped
- Roasted pistachios: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Walnuts: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Dijon mustard: 1 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tbsp (for rolling)
- Chopped pecans: 2 tbsp (for rolling)
- Chopped dried cranberries: 2 tbsp (for rolling)
- Finely crushed crackers: 2 tbsp, gluten-free if needed (for rolling)
- Chopped chives: 2 tbsp (for rolling)
Instructions
- Mix cheeses:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine goat cheese, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Add meats and mix-ins:
- Stir in prosciutto, salami, chives, dried cranberries, pistachios, walnuts, Dijon mustard, and black pepper until evenly distributed.
- Chill mixture:
- Chill mixture in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
- Form balls:
- Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion mixture into 24 bite-sized balls.
- Coat balls:
- Roll each ball in your choice of coatings—parsley, pecans, cranberries, crackers, or chives—to cover completely.
- Serve:
- Arrange on a platter or charcuterie board. Keep chilled until ready to serve.
Pin Last Christmas, my kids helped roll and coat each snack ball—it became a fun family tradition with everyone joining in and laughing together.
Required Tools
Medium mixing bowl, rubber spatula or spoon, small cookie scoop or spoon, chef’s knife and cutting board, platter or serving board.
Notes
Substitute cheeses as desired—blue cheese, gouda, or gruyère work well. Omit meats for a vegetarian version. Serve with toothpicks or small skewers.
Nutritional Information
Per snack ball: 70 calories, 5 g total fat, 2 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein.
Pin Brighten your holiday table with these festive snack balls—they’re irresistible! Make ahead for stress-free entertaining and enjoy every bite.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I prepare these snack balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day ahead. Keep chilled and covered until serving for best freshness.
- → How do I make a vegetarian version?
Simply omit the prosciutto and salami. Add more cheese or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- → Which coatings work best?
Chopped herbs, pecans, cranberries, crushed crackers, and chives all enhance taste and appearance. Use your favorite combinations.
- → Can I use different cheeses in this snack?
Absolutely! Swap in blue cheese, gouda, or gruyère for a unique twist that suits your preferences.
- → Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, use certified gluten-free crackers as a coating, and always check ingredient labels for hidden gluten.
- → What pairs well with these snack balls?
Serve with sparkling wine, light reds, or fresh fruits for a balanced and festive board.