Name: Delicious Cheese Olive Balls Perfect for Any Gathering
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 110 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All Purpose Flour (Substitution: Gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.); 1 teaspoon Dry Mustard; 1 pinch Cayenne Pepper (Adjust to taste for more spice.); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Use freshly grated cheese for optimal binding and flavor.); ½ cup Melted Butter; 1 jar Pimento Stuffed Manzanilla Olives (Substitution: Kalamata olives for a different flavor profile.)

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The kitchen filled with the aroma of melting cheddar, and I couldn’t help but grin—Halloween was just around the corner, and it was time to impress my guests with something special. Enter the charming Cheese Olive Balls! These delightful appetizers merge the creamy richness of cheese with the briny burst of olives, making them the star of any gathering. Perfect for both spooky celebrations and year-round snacking, these cheesy bites are not only quick to prepare but also cater to everyone’s cravings with their crispy exterior and gooey center. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or just looking for a savory snack, these Cheese Olive Balls promise to be an irresistible addition to your table. Ready to give your tastebuds a treat that keeps your guests coming back for more? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Adore Cheese Olive Balls?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich cheddar cheese and briny olives delivers a bold and savory taste that will have your guests raving.

Quick and Easy: These bite-sized appetizers come together in a snap, allowing you more time to enjoy the festivities rather than being stuck in the kitchen.

Versatile Options: While perfect for Halloween, you can easily switch up ingredients to delight your taste buds year-round. Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or fresh herbs for an exciting twist!

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a Halloween gathering or a game day, these Cheese Olive Balls are sure to disappear quickly, keeping your guests satisfied and asking for the recipe.

Feel like indulging in more savory snacks? Consider trying Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs or Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup for your next gathering!

Cheese Olive Balls Ingredients

• Perfect for any gathering!

For the Batter

All Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability for the cheese balls; Substitution: Gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Dry Mustard – Enhances the cheese flavor, making it more pronounced.
Cayenne Pepper – Adds a mild heat; adjust to taste for more spice.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – The star ingredient, offering a rich, cheesy flavor; Note: Use freshly grated cheese for optimal binding and flavor.
Melted Butter – Adds moisture and helps bind the mixture together.

For the Filling

Pimento Stuffed Manzanilla Olives – Provide a salty, briny contrast to the cheese; Substitution: Kalamata olives for a different flavor profile.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheese Olive Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Flour Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of dry mustard, and a pinch of cayenne pepper until well combined. This dry mix serves as the foundation for your Cheese Olive Balls, enhancing their flavor kick. Ensure there are no lumps in the mixture, as this will help achieve a uniform texture in your cheesy snacks.

Step 2: Incorporate the Cheese
Next, add 1 cup of freshly shredded cheddar cheese to your flour mixture, folding it gently until each piece is well-coated. This step is crucial as the cheese is the star ingredient of the Cheese Olive Balls, providing a rich and savory taste. The mixture should become slightly thick and crumbly as you combine the ingredients, signaling that you’re on track.

Step 3: Form the Dough
Create a well in the center of your cheese mixture and pour in ½ cup of melted butter. Using a spatula or your hands, mix until a dough forms—this may take a couple of minutes. The dough should be cohesive and slightly sticky but not overly wet. Once combined, you’re ready to shape the delicious Cheese Olive Balls!

Step 4: Prepare the Olives
While your dough rests, take 1 jar of pimento-stuffed Manzanilla olives, draining and patting them dry with a paper towel. This step is essential to avoid excess moisture in your Cheese Olive Balls, ensuring they bake up perfectly crisp. The contrasting salty brininess of the olives will elevate the flavors of your cheesy bites beautifully.

Step 5: Shape the Cheese Balls
Using a teaspoon of the dough, take a portion and encase it around an olive, leaving part of the olive exposed for a lovely presentation. Roll the dough into a ball shape to secure the olive inside. Keep your hands slightly damp to prevent sticking. Continue this process, arranging the formed Cheese Olive Balls on a lined baking sheet as you go.

Step 6: Chill the Balls
Once all the balls are shaped, cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour. Chilling helps the Cheese Olive Balls maintain their shape during baking, ensuring a delightful crispy exterior. This step is key, especially if you’ve made these ahead of time for your Halloween party or another gathering.

Step 7: Preheat and Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while the Cheese Olive Balls chill. Once preheated, bake the chilled balls for 15-20 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as the perfect doneness will have a crispy, light layer and a mouthwatering gooey center bursting with cheesy goodness.

Step 8: Serve Warm
After baking, allow the Cheese Olive Balls to cool slightly before serving them warm. These delicious bites are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, showcasing the melted cheese and contrasting flavors from the olives. Present them on a festive platter with a spooky dip, and watch them disappear at your next celebration!

What to Serve with Cheese Olive Balls

Imagine a cozy gathering around a festive table, where every bite of savory Cheese Olive Balls is perfectly complemented by delectable sides and sips.

Creamy Spinach Dip: This velvety dip adds a rich texture and a burst of flavor, perfect for dipping those cheesy bites.
Crisp Veggie Platter: Fresh carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide a refreshing crunch, contrasting beautifully with the warm, cheesy goodness of the olive balls.
Savory Charcuterie Board: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and nuts enhances the party vibe and gives guests a variety of tastes to explore.
Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, buttery breadsticks offer a comforting, chewy element that pairs well with the bold flavors of the cheese and olives.
Tangy Lemonade: A refreshing drink option that balances the richness of the cheese olive balls, adding a zesty kick to your palate.
Festive Cocktail: A light, fruity cocktail can elevate your gathering, complementing the savory snacks and adding an elegant touch to the occasion.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their slight sweetness and crispy texture create a delightful contrast, rounding out your appetizer spread with a satisfying crunch.
Chocolate Mousse Cups: End on a sweet note with these light, airy desserts that provide a lovely finish after enjoying the savory snacks.

Prepare to make your celebration unforgettable with these pairings that elevate your Cheese Olive Balls from tasty appetizers to a complete festive feast!

Expert Tips for Cheese Olive Balls

Grate Fresh Cheese: Use freshly grated cheddar cheese instead of pre-packaged to ensure better binding and flavor in your cheese olive balls.

Avoid Excess Moisture: Ensure olives are drained and patted dry before encasing them in dough; excess moisture can make your cheese olive balls soggy.

Chill Thoroughly: Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the formed balls for an hour helps maintain their shape during baking for a perfect crispy texture.

Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on baking. Remove the cheese olive balls once they’ve turned golden brown to avoid overcooking.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep these cheese olive balls ahead of time and freeze them. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready to serve!

Cheese Olive Balls Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful cheese olive balls!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to substitute for all-purpose flour, making them suitable for those with dietary restrictions. The texture will still turn out delightful!
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or chives to the cheese mixture for an added layer of flavor that enhances your cheesy creations.
Heat it Up: Swap in jalapeños for pimento-stuffed olives to create a spicy kick that will have your taste buds dancing.
Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or feta to discover a new flavor profile that’s equally delicious.
Baked vs. Fried: For a different texture, try shallow frying the cheese balls instead of baking them for an indulgently crispy exterior.
Stuffed with Surprise: Insert a tiny piece of sun-dried tomato inside the cheese ball along with the olive; the burst of flavor will take your appetizer game to new heights!
Savory Sweet: Combine sharp cheddar with a touch of sweet cream cheese for a unique twist that balances savory and sweet beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Roll the cheese balls in crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts before baking for an unexpected, delightful crunch.

Whether paired with a spooky dip or simply enjoying them on their own, these Cheese Olive Balls are a captivating treat. If you’re hunting for more delectable snacks, consider creating some tempting Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs or a cozy bowl of Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup!

How to Store and Freeze Cheese Olive Balls

Fridge: Store any leftover cheese olive balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay fresh and ready to enjoy again.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked cheese olive balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to bake, thaw the cheese olive balls in the fridge overnight and bake as directed for a delightful treat that tastes freshly made.

Pre-baked Storage: If you’ve baked them ahead, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, reheating in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheese Olive Balls are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can shape the cheese balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, ensuring a delicious and convenient appetizer ready at a moment’s notice. For longer storage, freeze the formed balls for up to 3 months; just ensure they’re placed on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to an airtight container to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake the cheese balls straight from the freezer, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time for just as delicious results. This way, you can prepare in advance and serve warm, ensuring your guests are always satisfied!

Cheese Olive Balls Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe olives for the Cheese Olive Balls?
When selecting olives, look for firm ones without any dark spots or blemishes. Pimento-stuffed Manzanilla olives are ideal due to their nice balance of flavor, but you can also opt for Kalamata olives if you prefer a different taste. For the best results, choose olives stored in brine for added flavor.

How should I store leftover Cheese Olive Balls?
Absolutely! Store any leftover Cheese Olive Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are fully cooled before sealing to maintain their crispy texture. To enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Can I freeze Cheese Olive Balls?
Yes, you can! If you want to prepare these delightful bites in advance, simply freeze the uncooked cheese olive balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

What can I do if my cheese dough is too sticky?
If your dough becomes too sticky when preparing the Cheese Olive Balls, don’t worry! Lightly dust your hands and the work surface with a bit of flour to make shaping easier. Another option is to chill the dough for about 15-20 minutes to help firm it up, making it easier to handle without sticking.

Are Cheese Olive Balls suitable for gluten-free diets?
Definitely! To make these delicious Cheese Olive Balls gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, particularly the cheese and olives, don’t contain gluten additives.

Can I make Cheese Olive Balls in advance?
Certainly! You can prepare the cheese olive balls up to a day in advance. Shape them, then place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just take them out of the fridge, preheat your oven, and bake as per the instructions. This is a fantastic way to save time on the day of your gathering!