Looking for a unique and delicious appetizer to impress your guests at the next gathering? Auntie Jo’s Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball is a delightful twist on a classic party favorite. This sweet and savory treat is perfect for serving with crackers, fruit slices, or even pretzels. The combination of creamy cheese, crunchy pecans, and mini chocolate chips creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for more.
To prepare Auntie Jo’s Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball, you will need the following ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Graham crackers, apple slices, or pretzels for serving
Here’s how to make this tasty treat:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Use a hand mixer or a wooden spoon to mix everything together until well combined.
2. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped pecans, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Place a large sheet of plastic wrap on your countertop and scoop the cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap.
4. Use the plastic wrap to help shape the mixture into a ball, wrapping it tightly as you go. Once you have a round shape, place the cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to chill and firm up.
5. After the cheese ball has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and unwrap it from the plastic wrap.
6. Roll the cheese ball in some additional mini chocolate chips and chopped pecans to coat the outside, pressing gently to help them adhere to the surface.
7. Transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter and surround it with graham crackers, apple slices, or pretzels for dipping.
8. Serve the Auntie Jo’s Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball at room temperature to allow the flavors to fully develop and enjoy!
This delightful appetizer is sure to be a hit at any gathering, whether it’s a casual get-together with friends or a special holiday celebration. The creamy texture of the cheese, combined with the sweetness of the chocolate chips and the crunch of the pecans, makes for a truly irresistible snack that will have your guests asking for the recipe.
So next time you’re looking for a fun and delicious appetizer to serve, give Auntie Jo’s Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball a try. It’s easy to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
