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Pinecone Cheese Ball

Pinecone Cheese Ball

  • Author: Jonathan
  • Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

The Pinecone Cheese Ball is a festive and eye-catching appetizer featuring creamy plant-based cheese combined with crispy smoked turkey bacon and natural flavorings. Shaped like a pinecone, it offers a delightful texture and rich smoky flavor perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. Easy to make with simple ingredients and highly customizable for various tastes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz plant-based cream cheese
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp minced garlic (natural)
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder (natural)
  • 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent

Optional Variations

  • Chopped fresh dill and chives (for Herb Delight)
  • Finely diced jalapenos and smoked paprika (for Spicy Kick)
  • Sunflower seeds (for Nut-Free Option)
  • Dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds (for Sweet and Savory)
  • Smoked tempeh (to replace bacon for Vegan Variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture. In a large bowl, combine the plant-based cream cheese, minced garlic (natural), onion powder (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and natural gelling agent. Mix thoroughly until smooth and uniformly flavored, creating the perfect base for shaping your cheese ball.
  2. Shape the Cheese Ball. Form the mixture into an oval shape resembling a pinecone. Ensure it is compact and smooth on the surface so it holds its shape well. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours to firm up.
  3. Create the Pinecone Scales. Cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp and chop finely. Once the cheese ball is firm, gently press the chopped bacon pieces into the surface all around, overlapping them like pinecone scales.
  4. Garnish and Serve. Sprinkle chopped walnuts between some bacon pieces to add texture and natural beauty. Scatter chopped fresh parsley around the base or on top for a festive touch. Serve with crackers, fresh vegetables, or artisan bread.

Notes

  • Use cold ingredients for easier shaping.
  • Chill thoroughly for the cheese ball to set firmly before decorating.
  • Cook smoked turkey bacon crisp but avoid burning for optimal texture.
  • Shape larger or smaller pinecones based on your needs.
  • Prep a day ahead to allow flavors to meld and ease serving day.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of cheese ball
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: pinecone cheese ball, plant-based cheese ball, holiday appetizer, party appetizer, smoked turkey bacon appetizer

Find it online: https://familycookspot.com/pinecone-cheese-ball/