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Pinecone Cheese Ball

Pinecone Cheese Ball

  • Author: Anthony
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 1 cheese ball (serves 8-10) 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

The Pinecone Cheese Ball is a visually stunning and crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring creamy (plant-based) cheese combined with smoked turkey bacon, fresh herbs, and natural flavors. Designed to resemble a pinecone, this easy-to-assemble recipe offers a rich, textured bite perfect for holiday parties, family dinners, or casual gatherings. With simple, flavorful ingredients and a charming presentation, it makes entertaining effortless and fun.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Ball Base

  • 2 cups creamy (plant-based) cheese
  • 1 teaspoon natural garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • 1 tablespoon natural vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
  • 1 teaspoon grape juice (optional)

Pinecone Texture

  • 4 ounces smoked turkey bacon, cut into small pieces
  • 1/2 cup crushed pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cheese mixture: Combine creamy (plant-based) cheese, natural garlic powder, chopped fresh chives, and natural vegetarian Worcestershire sauce in a mixing bowl. Thoroughly mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and silky smooth.
  2. Add the natural gelling agent: Sprinkle the natural gelling agent evenly over the cheese mixture, then stir it in gently to help the cheese ball hold its shape without affecting the creamy texture.
  3. Shape the cheese ball: Using your hands or a spatula, form the mixture into a pinecone shape on a serving platter, tapering one end to resemble the natural form perfectly.
  4. Create the pinecone scales: Press small pieces of smoked turkey bacon into the exterior of the cheese ball to mimic the pinecone’s scales. Overlap each piece slightly to achieve a layered effect, covering the entire surface evenly.
  5. Add the nutty crunch: Press crushed pecans or walnuts into the ends of the smoked turkey bacon slices, filling gaps and giving a realistic texture. Do this gently for a uniform, professional finish.
  6. Chill before serving: Place the completed pinecone cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least one hour to firm up and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cheese to blend more smoothly and make shaping easier.
  • Wrap tightly while chilling to prevent drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
  • Choose smoky turkey bacon for a delightful savory contrast that balances the creamy cheese.
  • Chop nuts finely to prevent overpowering crunch and maintain authentic pinecone texture.
  • Prepare a day ahead for deeper flavors and better shape stability.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/10 of cheese ball
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 290mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: pinecone cheese ball, plant-based cheese appetizer, smoked turkey bacon appetizer, holiday appetizer, vegan cheese ball

Find it online: https://homedishideas.com/pinecone-cheese-ball/