This Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball is a delightful crowd-pleaser, featuring a combination of crisp bacon, creamy cheeses, fresh herbs, and ranch seasoning. Shaped like a pinecone, it adds a festive touch to your appetizer spread.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Recipe Servings: 8

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped (Air Fryer Bacon recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh green onions, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced (or ¼ teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning (homemade ranch seasoning recommended)
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 cup whole almonds (see below for alternative outer coatings)
  • 1 box gluten-free crackers or veggies for dipping

Equipment:

  • Cutting Board
  • Knife
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Serving platter
  • Fork

Instructions:

  1. Add the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, green onions, minced garlic, ranch mix, and sea salt to a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Using a fork, mix until all ingredients are well combined. Alternatively, use a hand mixer or food processor.
  3. Shape the cream cheese mixture into the form of a pinecone (teardrop shape) using your hands, then place it on a serving plate or platter.
  4. Carefully place almonds into the cheeseball with the tip of the almonds going at a slight angle, the same direction as the narrow end of the pinecone cheese ball shape.
  5. Arrange crackers on the serving platter around your bacon ranch cheese ball and sprinkle chopped green onions on the plate for garnish. Add a few sprigs of rosemary at the top of the pinecone to resemble pine needles, if desired.

Nutrition Information Per Serving:

  • Calories: 349kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 590mg
  • Potassium: 205mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Vitamin A: 539IU
  • Vitamin C: 1mg
  • Calcium: 180mg
  • Iron: 1mg