Introduction
Get ready to dazzle your taste buds with these Cheesy Olive Balls – the ultimate party snack you never knew you needed! These bite-sized, flavor-packed delights are the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and savory olives. With every crunch, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more if you like it spicy!)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 36 small pimento-stuffed green olives, drained and patted dry
Preparation Time
- Prep Time – 15 minutes
- Cook Time – 15 minutes
- Total Time – 30 minutes
- Yield – 36 Cheesy Olive Balls
Directions
1. Preheat the excitement! Set your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix the magic! In a mixing bowl, combine flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add the softened butter and cheddar cheese; mix until you’ve got a smooth, doughy delight.
3. Wrap it up! Take about a tablespoon of dough, flatten it into a disc, and lovingly wrap it around each olive, making sure they’re fully enclosed in cheesy goodness.
4. Bake to perfection! Arrange these glorious orbs on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for 15 minutes, or until they’re golden and irresistible.
5. Cool and serve! Let them cool slightly (if you can resist!) on a wire rack before serving them up to your eagerly awaiting partygoers.
When you bring these out, we guarantee they’ll disappear faster than you can say “cheesy olive balls!” Perfect for any gathering, these savory treats are sure to be a hit!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the excitement!
Set your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C).
Mix the magic!
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add the softened butter and cheddar cheese; mix until you’ve got a smooth, doughy delight.
Wrap it up!
Take about a tablespoon of dough, flatten it into a disc, and lovingly wrap it around each olive, making sure they’re fully enclosed in cheesy goodness.
Bake to perfection!
Arrange these glorious orbs on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for 15 minutes, or until they’re golden and irresistible.
Cool and serve!
Let them cool slightly (if you can resist!) on a wire rack before serving them up to your eagerly awaiting partygoers.
Notes
Storage Tips
These Cheesy Olive Balls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Customization
Feel free to experiment with different types of olives or cheeses to suit your taste preferences!
Serving Suggestions
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like spicy mustard or ranch, for an extra flavor boost.
Cook techniques
Mixing the Dough
Combining the dry ingredients with the butter and cheese is key to achieving a smooth and pliable dough. Make sure the butter is soft to allow easier mixing.
Wrapping the Olives
When wrapping the dough around the olives, ensure each olive is completely enclosed to prevent leaks during baking. Flattening the dough helps create an even wrap.
Baking to Perfection
Baking at 400°F (200°C) helps achieve a crispy golden exterior. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
Cool Before Serving
Letting the cheesy olive balls cool slightly on a wire rack helps maintain their crispness and makes them easier to handle without burning your fingers.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a mix for varied flavors.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and wrap the olives ahead of time. Refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
How can I make them spicier?
Adding more cayenne pepper or incorporating diced jalapeños into the dough can enhance the heat.
What should I serve with these?
These cheesy olive balls pair well with dips like ranch, garlic aioli, or your favorite spicy sauce.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Olive Balls are sure to elevate any gathering with their irresistible flavor and delightful texture.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Cheese Sticks
Try making cheese sticks using a similar dough with added herbs and spices.
Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers
Utilize the dough to wrap around jalapeños for a zesty, cheesy alternative.
Cheesy Herb Breadsticks
Create breadsticks by rolling the dough thin, adding herbs, and baking until golden.