What cheeses are used in these acorn bites?

A combination of softened cream cheese and finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese creates a smooth, flavorful base.

Can I substitute the pecans used for coating?

Yes, toasted walnuts or almonds can be used as alternative coatings for a different nutty flavor and texture.

Scoop heaping teaspoons of the cheese mixture and gently roll them into small oval shapes resembling acorns using your hands.

Mini pretzel sticks are inserted on top of each ball to mimic acorn stems, adding both structure and a crunchy bite.

Yes, if you use gluten-free pretzel sticks or serve them with gluten-free crackers, the bites can be enjoyed gluten-free.

You can prepare and refrigerate them up to 24 hours ahead, allowing flavors to meld and maintaining freshness.

Charming, bite-sized cheese balls shaped like acorns, coated with nuts and herbs—perfect for autumn gatherings and festive entertaining.

This savory snack quickly became a favorite at our seasonal parties and impresses all guests every time.

Cheese Mixture: 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened, 120 g (1 cup) sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded, 2 tablespoons chives, finely chopped, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, Pinch of salt
Coating & Decoration: 60 g (1/2 cup) finely chopped toasted pecans, 60 g (1/2 cup) finely chopped parsley or fresh dill, 24 mini pretzel sticks, 24 small rosemary leaves (optional, for acorn stems)

Step 1:: In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, chives, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Step 2:: Scoop out heaping teaspoons of the cheese mixture and roll them into small oval or acorn shapes using your hands.
Step 3:: Roll the top half of each cheese ball in the chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere. Roll the bottom half in parsley or dill for contrast.
Step 4:: Insert a mini pretzel stick into the top of each cheese ball to resemble an acorn stem. Add a rosemary leaf if desired.
Step 5:: Arrange acorn cheese balls on a serving platter. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving for best texture.

These cheese balls always spark joy and bring family members together during our fall celebrations.

25 minutes

Serve with assorted crackers or sliced vegetables for a delightful appetizer.

Can be made up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated for convenience.

These acorn cheese ball bites are a perfect seasonal treat that’s both easy to prepare and sure to impress.

→ What cheeses are used in these acorn bites?: A combination of softened cream cheese and finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese creates a smooth, flavorful base.
→ Can I substitute the pecans used for coating?: Yes, toasted walnuts or almonds can be used as alternative coatings for a different nutty flavor and texture.
→ How do I shape the cheese balls into acorns?: Scoop heaping teaspoons of the cheese mixture and gently roll them into small oval shapes resembling acorns using your hands.
→ What is the purpose of the mini pretzel sticks?: Mini pretzel sticks are inserted on top of each ball to mimic acorn stems, adding both structure and a crunchy bite.
→ Are these bites suitable for gluten-free diets?: Yes, if you use gluten-free pretzel sticks or serve them with gluten-free crackers, the bites can be enjoyed gluten-free.
→ How far in advance can I prepare these cheese bites?: You can prepare and refrigerate them up to 24 hours ahead, allowing flavors to meld and maintaining freshness.