Hazelnut Crusted Goat Cheese Ball: Creamy, Crunchy Party Perfection
Imagine a creamy goat cheese center wrapped in a toasty hazelnut crunch—sweet, savory, and utterly addictive. This Hazelnut Crusted Goat Cheese Ball is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings, wine nights, or cozy appetizers. It looks fancy, tastes incredible, and comes together with almost zero effort. One bite, and your guests will be begging for the recipe!
The secret to that perfect nutty coating? Finely ground hazelnuts, made effortless with the Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater. Let’s roll up this beauty!
🥜Ingredients (Serves 8–10 as an appetizer)
10 oz soft goat cheese (room temperature)
4 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
1 cup hazelnuts
2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
1 tbsp honey
½ tsp garlic powder
Pinch of salt & cracked black pepper
Optional: fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Serve with: crackers, apple slices, or baguette
🧀Step-by-Step: Cheese Ball in 4 Easy Moves
1. Prep the Hazelnut Coating
Place hazelnuts in the crank cheese grater. Use the crushing blade and crank until you have fine, sandy crumbs. Mix with chopped chives, a drizzle of honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl.
2. Form the Cheese Ball
In a bowl, blend goat cheese and cream cheese until smooth. Roll into a ball (or log shape if you prefer). Chill for a few minutes if too soft—it firms up for easier coating.
3. Coat to Perfection
Roll the cheese ball in the hazelnut mixture, pressing gently so every inch is covered in crunchy goodness. The fine grind sticks beautifully—no gaps!
4. Serve & Wow
Place on a platter, garnish with rosemary sprigs for that festive touch. Pair with crackers or crisp apple slices. Watch it disappear!
🌰Tips & Twists
Sweeter Version – Drizzle extra honey on top before serving.
Herb Boost – Mix fresh thyme or dill into the coating.
Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne to the hazelnuts.
Make-Ahead Magic – Prepare up to 2 days ahead; store wrapped in fridge.
Gluten-Free – Serve with veggie sticks or gluten-free crackers.
🎉Conclusion: A Show-Stopping Appetizer
This Hazelnut Crusted Goat Cheese Ball brings elegance and flavor to any table—creamy, nutty, and perfect for sharing. The rotary grater makes the prep effortless, so you can focus on the fun.
