Recipe #3 – Christmas Potluck

Well, it’s taken me more than 6 weeks to get back and post another recipe. The holidays were as crazy as ever, with Marissa and family in town and Harmony Boards Christmas and NYE orders, and … well you know how it goes.

This recipe was made by Mary even though she was not able to attend, she sent it along with her sisters. These cheesy bites were a huge hit!

Mini Pimento Cheese Balls

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 4-ounce jar diced pimentos
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
• Small square crackers, such as Wheat Thins

In a large bowl add the cheddar cheese and cream cheese. Use a hand blender and mix until combined. Add in the diced pimentos, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and garlic powder. Mix again to combine. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for one hour.

In a shallow bowl mix together the chopped pecans and chives.

Using a 2-inch cookie scoop, scoop out a ball of cheese. Roll it in your hand to shape it into a round ball. Roll the ball in the pecan chive mixture to evenly coat. Transfer to a serving platter. Repeat with the remaining cheese mixture.

Insert a small square cracker into the top of each cheese ball. Serve with additional crackers on the side.

Makes about 36 balls