Three incredible cheese balls in flavors like pesto, horseradish-bacon and Gorgonzola make for a dazzling display at any get-together. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Miniature pretzels, cooked bacon, dried cranberries, basil leaves and green onion, optional
Assorted crackers
Directions
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, Parmesan cheese and garlic until blended. Divide into three portions; place each in a small bowl.
For Pesto Cheese Ball: Beat pesto into one portion of cheese mixture. Stir in basil. Shape into a ball.
For Horseradish-Bacon Cheese Ball: Beat horseradish into a second portion of cheese mixture. Stir in bacon and green onion. Shape into one large ball or three mini balls.
For Gorgonzola-Cranberry Cheese Ball: Beat Gorgonzola cheese into third portion of cheese mixture. Stir in cranberries. Shape into a ball; roll in walnuts to coat.
Wrap cheese balls in plastic wrap; refrigerate at least 1 hour or until firm. Unwrap and decorate as desired. Serve with crackers.
Editor's Note
To toast nuts, bake in a shallow pan in a 350° oven for 5-10 minutes or cook in a skillet over low heat until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.