The Ultimate Chocolate Pecan Encrusted Bacon Cheese Ball with Jarlsberg: A Festive Appetizer Recipe

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with an appetizer that defies expectations and delights every palate: the Chocolate Pecan Encrusted Bacon Cheese Ball. This isn’t just any cheese ball; it’s a culinary masterpiece where the rich, creamy goodness of Jarlsberg cheese perfectly harmonizes with crispy bacon, fresh green onions, a subtle kick of blue cheese, and the unexpected sweetness of semi-sweet chocolate, all encased in a crunchy pecan crust. It’s a truly unforgettable addition to any gathering, especially during the festive season.

This recipe transforms a classic party staple into something extraordinary, proving that bold flavors can indeed create a symphony of taste. If you’re looking to impress your guests and offer a unique, gourmet experience that’s surprisingly easy to make, you’ve found your next go-to appetizer.

A Cherished Christmas Eve Tradition: The Art of Appetizer Feasting

At my house, Christmas Eve isn’t about the traditional sit-down dinner; it’s a cherished tradition of leisurely snacking. We embrace the joy of an appetizer feast, laying out a spread of delicious, bite-sized delights that invite everyone to graze and mingle. From classic mini sausages in grape jelly barbecue sauce to savory chicken wings and comforting sausage balls, our table groans under the weight of festive finger foods. And amidst this glorious array, there’s one item that always holds a special place: the cheese ball. It’s more than just a snack; it’s a centerpiece, a conversation starter, and a true symbol of holiday indulgence.

There’s an undeniable charm to a soft, spreadable cheese ball, generously coated in nuts or other delightful toppings. Its inviting texture and the endless possibilities for flavor combinations make it a perennial favorite. Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday party or a cozy family get-together, a well-crafted cheese ball is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that effortlessly elevates any occasion. And with this particular recipe, we’re taking the concept to a whole new level of deliciousness.

The Foundation of Flavor: Selecting the Best Ingredients

The secret to an truly outstanding cheese ball lies in the quality of its components. This isn’t a dish where you can cut corners on ingredients and expect stellar results. You want vibrant, fresh flavors that sing in harmony, creating a memorable taste experience. Here’s what to look for:

Fresh Herbs: Ditch the dried powders. Opt for freshly chopped parsley and bright green onions. Their crispness and aromatic notes are indispensable, providing a fresh counterpoint to the richness of the cheese.
Premium Bacon: Choose a good quality, smoked bacon. Cook it until it’s perfectly crisp, then chop it into small pieces. The smoky, salty crunch of real bacon is a non-negotiable element that brings depth and texture to every bite.
The Star Cheese: As the name implies, cheese is paramount. And not just any cheese will do. Avoid the convenience of pre-shredded, packaged cheese; it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture and flavor. Take a couple of minutes to freshly shred your own cheese. The difference in melt, texture, and taste is significant and well worth the minimal effort.

The Jarlsberg Difference: Elevating Your Cheese Ball

When it comes to selecting the perfect cheese for this recipe, Jarlsberg stands head and shoulders above the rest. Its slightly sweet, nutty flavor profile is distinctive yet incredibly versatile, ensuring it complements rather than overpowers the other ingredients. You get to savor the creamy goodness of Jarlsberg in every bite, a subtle complexity that makes this cheese ball truly special. It’s the ideal base, offering a sophisticated foundation that blends seamlessly with everything else you choose to include. Combined with just a touch of crumbled blue cheese for an extra layer of savory tang, this Jarlsberg-infused creation might just become the only cheese ball recipe you’ll ever want to make again.

The Unexpected Twist: Chocolate and Cheese?

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: chocolate. Yes, chocolate and cheese! I know it might sound unconventional, perhaps even a bit daring, but I urge you – don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. The key is to use a high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate. The subtle bitterness and rich sweetness of the chocolate provide an intriguing counterpoint to the savory elements of the bacon, Jarlsberg, and blue cheese. It’s not an overwhelming chocolate flavor, but rather a hint that adds depth and sophistication, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Using mini chocolate chips is a fantastic shortcut; I simply put them in my food chopper along with the pecans to make them a little smaller and ensure an even distribution throughout the crust. This surprising addition creates an incredible flavor journey, where each bite reveals layers of sweet, salty, savory, and nutty notes. It’s a combination that truly needs to be experienced to be believed.

The Ultimate Seal of Approval: My Picky Eater’s Verdict

I have to share a little anecdote that truly speaks volumes about this cheese ball. My daughter, who is famously (or infamously!) a picky eater, got a sample of this cheese ball shortly after I finished taking the photos. To my absolute delight, she was instantly hooked. Ever since that first taste, she’s been relentless, bugging me daily to eat the rest of it. It’s rare to find something that captivates her palate so completely, which tells you just how universally appealing and incredibly delicious this recipe truly is. It’s a good thing I have enough Jarlsberg on hand to whip up a second one, because I’m not entirely sure this original batch will even make it to Christmas Eve!

This anecdote isn’t just a charming story; it’s a testament to the irresistible balance of flavors in this unique appetizer. When even the most discerning eater gives it a resounding seal of approval, you know you’ve struck culinary gold. It’s truly a dish that brings smiles and prompts demands for more, making it the perfect choice for your holiday table.

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Chocolate Pecan Encrusted Bacon Cheese Ball

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup milk
2 cups finely shredded Jarlsberg cheese
1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
salt and pepper
1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
2 tablespoons mini semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, cream together cream cheese and milk until smooth. Add in cheeses, onion, bacon and parsley. Mix until combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Shape mixture into a ball and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Place in freezer for 1-2 hours to firm up.
Mix together chopped pecans and chocolate chips. Spread mixture in the bottom of a pie plate. Remove cheese ball from freezer, and unwrap. Roll cheese ball around in pecan mixture to coat, patting extra mixture into cheese ball with hands to cover any bald spots.
Rewrap cheese ball in plastic wrap and place in refrigerator until ready to serve.
Serve with plain crackers or melba toast.

Notes

This can be made up to a week ahead for maximum convenience.

For a lighter option, it’s also delicious spread on crisp celery stalks.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try switching out the cream cheese with Snofrisk for a slightly tangier flavor, if it’s available in your area.

Did you make this recipe?

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Expert Tips for Making Your Cheese Ball Perfect

Achieving the perfect cheese ball is easier than you think with a few simple tips:

Soften Your Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free base that blends beautifully with the other ingredients.
Chill for Firmness: Don’t skip the freezing step! Chilling the cheese ball in the freezer for 1-2 hours before coating helps it firm up, making it much easier to handle and shape. This also ensures it holds its form when rolled in the pecan-chocolate mixture.
Even Coating: When rolling your cheese ball in the pecan and chocolate mixture, don’t be afraid to use your hands. Patting the mixture firmly onto any “bald spots” ensures a complete and visually appealing crust.
Make Ahead Advantage: This cheese ball is an ideal make-ahead appetizer. You can prepare it up to a week in advance, wrap it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. This frees up precious time on the day of your event, allowing you to focus on other preparations or simply enjoy your guests.

Serving Suggestions: Beyond the Cracker

While plain crackers or melba toast are classic companions for any cheese ball, don’t limit your options! This Chocolate Pecan Encrusted Bacon Cheese Ball is versatile enough to be enjoyed in various ways. Consider serving it with:

Gourmet Crackers: Explore different textures and flavors of artisan crackers, from crispy water crackers to hearty rye thins.
Apple Slices: The crisp sweetness of apple slices provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory cheese.
Celery Sticks: For a lighter, crunchier option, celery sticks are an excellent vehicle for this flavorful spread.
Pretzel Crisps: These offer a salty, crunchy bite that complements the bacon and pecans beautifully.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this unique cheese ball is sure to be a conversation starter and a highlight of your appetizer spread.

Craving More Irresistible Appetizers?

If you’ve fallen in love with the idea of a festive appetizer spread, you’re in luck! Here are some other delightful recipes that are perfect for entertaining and complement the unique flavors of our Jarlsberg cheese ball. Expand your holiday repertoire with these crowd-pleasing bites:

Spinach Dip Bites

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Baked Brie

Beyond these delightful options, explore more appetizer inspiration from my friends:

Savory Cheesecake with Honeyed Walnuts from Hungry Couple

Pretzel Dog Bites with Beer Cheese Dip from The Noshery

Cheesy Jalapeno Bacon Bombs from Buns in my Oven

I was compensated for this post by Jarlsberg but all opinions are my own. I only share things I truly love and believe will bring joy to your kitchen.