Reviving a Classic: Homemade Port Wine Cheese Balls
Who doesn’t remember the iconic port wine cheese balls from Hickory Farms? Those creamy, tangy, and addictive treats were a staple at many family gatherings. But have you ever wondered what makes them so irresistible? The secret lies in the combination of quality ingredients and a clever technique.
The Perfect Blend
To recreate these nostalgic nibbles, you’ll need a mix of sharp cheddar and neufchatel cheese in equal parts. This harmonious blend ensures a smooth, spreadable texture that’s simply divine. Add a splash of port wine, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of garlic for that unmistakable flavor.
Texture and Taste
While these homemade cheese balls may not have the same silky texture as their industrial counterparts, they more than make up for it with their rich, tangy flavor. Your guests will be none the wiser – and they’ll be too busy savoring every bite to care!
Toasting the Walnuts
A crucial step in this recipe is toasting the walnuts until crispy. This adds a delightful crunch to the cheese balls. Be sure to roll the logs in the toasted walnuts just before serving to preserve their texture.
Yield and Difficulty
This easy recipe yields four 5-oz logs, perfect for snacking or entertaining. With a total preparation time of 3 hours (including refrigeration) and only 15 minutes of active time, you can whip up these cheese balls in no time.
Ingredients
- 10 oz. extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 10 oz. neufchatel cheese
- 4 T port wine
- 2 T Worcestershire sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Chopped, toasted walnuts
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except walnuts in a food processor. Process until smooth, scraping the sides down as needed.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal mounds and place each mound onto a foot-long sheet of plastic wrap.
- Cover the mound of cheese with the plastic, pull the cheese towards you, and shape into a cylinder. Roll in the remainder of the plastic sheet and secure the sides with twist ties or twine.
- Refrigerate for at least a few hours to allow the log to set, up to 2 days.
- Remove the log from the plastic carefully. It will be set but not solid.
- Roll the log in chopped, toasted walnuts and serve with crackers. Enjoy!
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