For the best flavor, use high-quality sharp cheddar cheese. Make sure the olives are thoroughly dried to prevent a soggy final product. The cheese balls can be made ahead of time and frozen for up to a month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed. Experiment with different cheeses and spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking. Smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese would be delicious variations.
Olive Cheese Balls
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PREP TIME30 mins
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COOK TIME15 mins
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TOTAL TIME2 hrs 15 mins
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SERVING36 People
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VIEWS13
These savory little bites are an explosion of flavor! Sharp cheddar, a hint of spice, and briny olives come together in a perfect poppable package. Ideal as a holiday appetizer or a delightful snack any time of year. Serve with cool ranch dressing for dipping and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for an elegant finish.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate2 g
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Cholesterol7 mg
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Fiber0 g
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Protein1 g
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Saturated Fat1 g
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Sodium53 mg
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Sugar0 g
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Fat3 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepIn a food processor, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and softened butter. Process until the mixture is well combined and smooth. (2 minutes)
02
StepAdd the flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture. Process again until a dough forms, being careful not to overmix. (1 minute)
03
StepTurn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a disc. Wrap the disc in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator until it is slightly firm and easy to handle. (30 minutes)
04
StepWhile the dough is chilling, ensure the pimiento-stuffed green olives are well-drained. Spread them out on a layer of paper towels to dry completely. This step is crucial for preventing soggy cheese balls.
05
StepLine a 10x15-inch rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
06
StepPinch off a piece of the chilled dough, about the size of a walnut half. Flatten the dough and carefully wrap it around a single olive, ensuring the olive is completely enclosed. Roll the dough-covered olive between your palms to create a smooth ball.
07
StepPlace the olive ball on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough and olives, spacing the balls about 1 1/2 inches apart. Once all the olive balls are formed, freeze them on the baking sheet until they are firm. (at least 1 hour or up to 1 month)
08
StepPreheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
09
StepBake the frozen cheese balls until they are lightly golden brown and the dough is set. (15-18 minutes)
10
StepRemove the baked cheese balls from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.
11
StepServe warm with ranch dressing for dipping. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor and visual appeal.
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Margarette Conroy
Jun 27, 2025I added a pinch of garlic powder to the dough and it was amazing!
Horacio Feil
Jun 27, 2025So easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser! Thanks for the recipe!
Valentin Mccullough
Jun 25, 2025These are definitely going to be a regular appetizer at my gatherings.
Agustina Metz
Jun 25, 2025My kids even enjoyed these, which is a win!
Bette Willms
Jun 19, 2025These were a hit at my party! Everyone loved the cheesy, olive-y flavor.
Amie Kulas
Jun 16, 2025Freezing them beforehand made it so easy to bake them fresh when my guests arrived.
Gregg Krajcik
Jun 4, 2025I used a mix of cheddar and parmesan cheese and it added a nice depth of flavor.
Laverna Dibbert
May 31, 2025Be sure to drain the olives really well! I didn't the first time and they were a bit soggy.