Date & Blue Cheese Ball

7. 10. 2025

Cheese balls were a popular party food in the 1970s due to their ease and deliciousness. Nowadays, this retro snack has made a comeback, and a healthier version of the classic cheese ball is gaining popularity. The new version is made with blue cheese, dates, shallots, and a hint of lemon zest, which gives it a unique flavor that is both sweet and savory.

Ingredients

• 8 oz of low-fat cream cheese (bar style), at room temperature
• 1 cup crumbled blue cheese, at room temperature
• 1 tbsp reduced-fat buttermilk
• 3 tbsp minced Medjool dates (5 to 6 pitted dates)
• 1 tbsp minced shallots
• 1 tsp grated lemon zest
• 2 1/2 tbsp finely chopped toasted walnuts

Method

•  In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the cream cheese, blue cheese, and buttermilk on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the dates, shallots, lemon zest, salt, and pepper and beat until well combined.
• Transfer the cheese mixture to a large sheet of plastic wrap/cling film and form it into a ball. Wrap the ball in the wrap and refrigerate until well chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight.
•  In a shallow bowl or plate, mix the parsley and walnuts. Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator.
• With the wrap/film still on, shape it into a well-formed ball. Unwrap the cheese mixture and roll it gently in the nut mixture until all sides are well covered.
• Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

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