Ingredients

24 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)

¾ cup finely chopped bacon (about 8 slices, cooked)

½ cup finely chopped deli meat (4 ounces, such as ham, turkey, pastrami, or roast beef)

8 green onions (thinly sliced)

¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese (cheddar blend works well)

½ cup finely diced nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds, or your choice)

1 teaspoon dill weed

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Almonds (whole or sliced, for decoration)

Rosemary (several packages, for branches)

Pomegranate arils or cranberries (for ornaments)

Cheddar cheese (about 2×2 inches, to cut a star for the top) or yellow bell pepper

Assorted crackers

Fresh veggies (bell peppers, cucumbers, carrots, celery, etc.)

Bread

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, bacon, deli meat, green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, nuts, dill weed, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Mix thoroughly, then knead the cream cheese into the other ingredients until very well combined. Form the mixture into a ball and place it on a serving dish.

Step 3: Shape the cheese ball into a cone to resemble a Christmas tree.

Step 4: Decorate by placing almonds diagonally around the cone like garland, starting from the top.

Step 5: Cut rosemary stems in half and insert them into the cheese ball, pointing downward, to mimic branches and cover the entire surface as best as possible.

Step 6: Fill any bare spots with pomegranate arils or cranberries to create colorful ornaments.

Step 7: Cut the cheddar cheese or yellow bell pepper into a star shape and attach it to the top of the tree with a toothpick.

Step 8: Arrange assorted crackers, bread, and fresh veggies around the cheese ball. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a different flavor, swap the bacon for cooked sausage or omit meat for a vegetarian version.

Use any nuts you prefer or leave them out if you have allergies.

Try different herbs like thyme or chives for the “branches” if you don’t have rosemary.

To add a bit of sweetness, sprinkle some finely chopped dried cranberries inside the cheese ball mixture.

FAQs

Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day ahead. Assemble it, wrap well, and keep it refrigerated. Add the decorative rosemary and garnishes just before serving to keep them fresh.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Cream cheese is key for the creamy texture, but you can mix in some goat cheese or Neufchâtel cheese to lighten it up. Keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor and texture.