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Pesto Cream Cheese Ball with Toasted Pine Nuts: Creamy Bliss!

  • Author: Laura
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Pesto Cream Cheese Ball with Toasted Pine Nuts is a delightful blend of creamy, tangy cheese and aromatic basil pesto, creating a rich and savory experience. The toasted pine nuts add a satisfying crunch, enhancing the overall texture and flavor profile, making it an irresistible appetizer for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Cheese Ball:
    • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
    • 1/2 cup basil pesto
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
    • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • For the Coating:
    • 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts, chopped
    • 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, basil pesto, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until well blended and smooth.
  2. Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
  3. While the cheese ball is chilling, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown.
  4. Once the cheese ball is firm, remove it from the refrigerator and roll it in the chopped toasted pine nuts and fresh basil until fully coated.
  5. Transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter and serve with crackers or fresh vegetables.

Notes

  • This cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator.
  • For a different flavor, substitute the basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: appetizers
  • Method: mixing, toasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ounce
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 1 gram
  • Sodium: 200 milligrams
  • Fat: 10 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 4 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 grams
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 3 grams
  • Fiber: 0 grams
  • Protein: 5 grams
  • Cholesterol: 20 milligrams

Keywords: Pesto Cream Cheese Ball, Toasted Pine Nuts, Appetizer, Cream Cheese Recipes, Pesto Recipes, Cheese Ball, Party Food, Easy Appetizers, Vegetarian Snacks, Holiday Appetizers, Creamy Cheese Spread, Finger Food, Entertaining Recipes, Savory Snacks

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Find it online: https://tenderecipe.com/pesto-cream-cheese-ball-toasted-pine-nuts-appetizer/