How To Make Cheese Bites
INGREDIENTS
- 1(8 ounces) jar of small pimento-stuffed green olives, well drained (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 2 lbs sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- raw pecan halves (optional)
DIRECTIONS
Step 1
In a spacious bowl, blend cheese, butter, flour, salt, and a dash of cayenne, forming a smooth dough through kneading.
Step 2
Shape the dough into small 1-inch balls and arrange them on a baking sheet without creasing them.
Step 3
For those opting for olives, fashion each ball around one olive.
Step 4
If you prefer pecans, gently press half a pecan onto every ball.
Step 5
You have the option to bake them immediately following the guidelines below or store them in the freezer for later consumption.
Step 6
Let them chill in trays inside the freezer for about 30 minutes.
Step 7
Afterward, transfer the balls into freezer bags or a container, seal them securely, and freeze them.
Step 8
When you crave a bite, pop them directly into the oven from the freezer.
Step 9
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
Step 10
Space the cheese balls approximately 3 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
Step 11
For frozen balls, bake for 15-17 minutes, and for thawed ones, bake for 13-15 minutes to perfection.
