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Christmas: Stilton and Walnut Balls

Source of Recipe

From "Christmas 101" by Rick Rodgers


Recipe Introduction

"Cheese balls aren't supposed to be classy, just delicious, but this recipe has a very sophisticated combination of flavors. It goes well with plain water crackers, but it is also terrific spread on sliced pears."

List of Ingredients

◦ 8 ounces Stilton or other blue cheese, rind removed, at room temperature
◦ One 8-ounce package cream cheese, at room temperature
◦ 2 tablespoons tawny port
◦ 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
◦ 1 cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped
◦ Water crackers, for serving
◦ Cored, sliced, ripe Bosc pears, tossed with lemon juice to discourage browning, for serving


Recipe

In a medium bowl, using a rubber spatula, mash the Stilton and cream cheese together until smooth. Work in the port and pepper.

Place a piece of plastic wrap on the work surface, and scrape the cheese mixture into the center of the wrap. Use the plastic wrap to form the cheese mixture into a ball (it will be soft). Refrigerate until the ball is chilled and firm, at least 4 hours or overnight.

To serve, unwrap the ball and roll in the chopped nuts. Transfer to a platter and serve with the crackers and pears.

Makes 12 to 16 appetizer servings