Garlic Herb Cheese Ball with Cracked Pepper Crackers
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons mixed fresh herbs, chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- Place the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and chopped herbs in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined.
- Scrape the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Shape it into a firm ball, wrap tightly, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat the oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a clean mixing bowl, stir together the flour, salt, and cracked black pepper. Add the cold butter cubes and rub them into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
- Add the cold water one tablespoon at a time and mix just until a dough forms. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into small squares or rectangles and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges turn golden. Let the crackers cool on the sheet for a few minutes before serving with the chilled cheese ball.
Notes
Chill the cheese ball longer if your kitchen is warm so it stays firm when guests slice into it. Use a mix of parsley and chives for the herbs to keep the flavor bright without overpowering the garlic. If the cracker dough feels dry, add the last tablespoon of water only a little at a time to avoid a tough texture.
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet