Mini goat cheese balls are an easy, elegant appetizer that looks like you spent a lot more time than you did. These bite-sized rounds are creamy, savory, and perfect for parties, holidays, or a quick weekend snack.
Ingredients
To make about 12 mini goat cheese balls, you’ll need the following:
- Goat cheese – 8 oz, softened to room temperature
- Cream cheese – 4 oz, softened to room temperature
- Green onions – 2, thinly sliced
- Italian parsley – 1 1/2 tablespoons, finely chopped (reserve a little for coating)
- Freshly ground black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
- Garlic croutons – about 1 cup, finely processed into crumbs
- Pretzel sticks – 12, for serving (optional)
How to Make
These mini goat cheese balls come together quickly and require very little hands-on time. Follow these steps for consistent, attractive results:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, softened cream cheese, thinly sliced green onions, one tablespoon of the chopped parsley, and the freshly ground black pepper.
- Use a hand mixer to whip the mixture until it is smooth and evenly blended. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed so everything incorporates evenly.
- Use a small cookie scoop (or a tablespoon) to portion the mixture into 12 equal scoops. Roll each scoop between clean hands into a smooth ball, then transfer to a sheet of parchment paper or a clean tray.
- Place the garlic croutons into a food processor or blender and pulse until they reach a fine, breadcrumb-like texture.
- Transfer the ground croutons to a small bowl and stir in the remaining chopped parsley to create a seasoned coating.
- Working one ball at a time, roll each cheese ball in the seasoned crouton mixture so it is evenly coated. Place finished balls on a serving tray.
- If desired, insert a pretzel stick into the top center of each cheese ball for an easy pick-up and attractive presentation.
- Serve immediately, or chill briefly if you prefer them slightly firmer. Enjoy!
Prep Time, Servings & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 12 mini cheese balls
- Calories (per serving): Approximately 96 kcal
Can I make goat cheese balls ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare these a day in advance. Form and coat the cheese balls, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you plan to use pretzel sticks, wait to insert them until just before serving so they stay crisp. Remove the balls from the fridge about 10–15 minutes before serving to let them soften slightly for best texture and flavor.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them chilled and consume within that timeframe for optimal freshness. If refrigeration makes them too firm, let them sit at room temperature for a short while before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Allow both the goat cheese and cream cheese to come to room temperature before mixing; this makes them much easier to whip smooth.
- Swap or add fresh herbs such as chives, dill, or tarragon for different flavor profiles. A small pinch of garlic powder or a touch of lemon zest can brighten the mixture.
- If you prefer a crunchy coating without croutons, finely chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) or crushed crackers work well.
- Omit pretzel sticks for a simpler presentation, or use small cocktail picks instead for ease of serving.
- For a sweeter contrast, roll some balls in chopped dried fruit or serve with a drizzle of honey on the side for guests to add.
Other Savory Cheese Ball Ideas
If you enjoy these mini goat cheese balls, you might also like other savory cheese ball variations such as:
- Everything Bagel Cheese Ball
- Santa Fe Cheese Ball
- Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball
Mini goat cheese balls make a reliable, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s quick to prepare and easy to customize. Recipe adapted from This Silly Girl’s Kitchen.
Nutrition Details (per serving)
- Calories: 96 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Sodium: 124 mg
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Sugar: 1 g