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Baked Cheese Balls

These baked cheese balls are a nostalgic snack transformed into a crispy, golden appetizer. Made with creamy cheeses, breadcrumbs, and herbs, they bake up with a gooey interior and a crunchy exterior, perfect for serving warm or at room temperature. The baking method keeps them light and less greasy than traditional fried versions.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 17 minutes
Total Time 37 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
  • 1/4 cup chopped chives
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional for flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper adjust according to cheese saltiness
  • as needed oil spray for crisping

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Mixing bowls
  • Cookie scoop or tablespoon
  • Pastry brush or spray bottle
  • Oven thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and chopped chives. Mix with a spoon or spatula until smooth and creamy, with a speckled green appearance from the herbs.
  3. Add the panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir thoroughly until everything is evenly incorporated and the mixture is slightly sticky but manageable.
  4. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and gently roll into small, 1-inch diameter balls. Keep your hands damp if the mixture sticks to prevent tearing.
  5. Place the cheese balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1.5 inches apart. Lightly spray or brush the tops with oil for extra crispness and shine.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes, or until the exterior is golden brown and crispy. The cheese inside should be melting and slightly bubbling once you remove them from the oven.
  7. Once out of the oven, let the cheese balls rest for 3-5 minutes. They will firm up slightly and are perfect for serving warm, with a crispy exterior and gooey interior.
  8. Serve these cheesy baked bites immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them plain for a nostalgic treat.

Notes

For extra crunch, double coat the cheese balls by rolling them in additional panko before baking. These are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated in a hot oven or air fryer for crispness.