Sweet & Spicy White Cheddar Cheese Ball with apples & Bacon

Cheddar, apples, & bacon—oh my! 🧀🍎🥓 This sweet & spicy cheese ball is a flavor explosion. 😋

1. A Quick Note:

This Sweet & Spicy White Cheddar Cheese Ball is a delightful appetizer that balances creamy cheese with a kick of spice and the sweetness of apples, all complemented by crispy bacon. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

2. Required Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup dried apple slices
• 2 teaspoons Applejack Brandy (I used 1 T. of Finger Lakes Distilling Maplejack)
• 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
• 6 slices of bacon
• 8 ounces cream cheese, or lowfat (NOT nonfat) cream cheese, softened
• 10 ounces of Adams Reserve New York Extra Sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoons dark brown sugar
• 1 cup Trader Joes Sweet and Spicy Pecans (substitute 1 c. pecans, 1 t. Cracker and apple slices to serve

3. Step-by-Step Instructions:

Begin by combining the softened white cheddar with your sweet and spicy ingredients. Form the mixture into a ball and chill. Then, coat the cheese ball with chopped apples and crispy bacon pieces before serving.

Step 1: Marinate the apples and fry bacon

Place apple slices in a small dish, drizzle with brandy and maple syrup. This allows them to marinate while you prepare the other ingredients. In a large skillet, fry bacon, turning occasionally, until crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.

Step 2: Chop the apples

After the apples have marinated, remove them from the marinade and finely chop them. Ensure the pieces are small and uniform for easy blending into the cheese mixture. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Blend the cheese mixture

In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, sharp cheddar, cayenne pepper, and chopped apples. Pulse the mixture until it is thoroughly mixed and forms a smooth, homogenous blend. Scrape down the sides of the processor as needed to ensure even mixing.

Step 4: Prepare the bacon-pecan topping

Combine pecans, brown sugar, and cooled, crumbled bacon in a mini-food processor. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped and well combined. This creates a delicious, sweet, and savory coating for the cheese ball.

Step 5: Form the cheese ball

Use a spatula to transfer the cheese mixture from the food processor to a cutting board. Lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking, then gently roll the cheese mixture into a smooth, round ball. Ensure the ball is uniformly shaped for even coating.

Step 6: Coat the cheese ball

Roll the cheese ball in the bacon-pecan mixture, gently patting it to ensure the coating adheres evenly. Make sure the entire surface of the cheese ball is covered with the topping for optimal flavor and texture in every bite.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy!

Arrange the cheese ball on a serving platter with crackers and apple slices dipped in a lemon juice/water mixture to prevent browning. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures.

4. Serving Suggestions

Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or apple slices for dipping. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp cider or a light-bodied red wine.

5. Nutrition

Serving size: 24 servings, Calories: 123kcal, Protein: 5g, Fat: 11g, Carbohydrates: 3g, Fiber: 0g, Sugar: 2g, Cholesterol: 21mg, Sodium: 148mg

6. The Tasty Ending:

This Sweet & Spicy White Cheddar Cheese Ball is a show-stopping appetizer that's sure to impress your guests. Its unique flavor combination makes it a memorable addition to any gathering. Enjoy and share the recipe!