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Pinecone Cheese Ball

Pinecone Cheese Ball

  • Author: Brian
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

The Pinecone Cheese Ball is a festive, eye-catching appetizer combining creamy plant-based cheese, smoky turkey bacon, and a natural gelling agent to create a perfect textured and flavorful centerpiece. Ideal for parties and gatherings, it offers customizable flavors and a plant-based friendly option while impressing guests with its pinecone-like appearance.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Plant-based cheese (soft) – 2 cups, softened
  • Smoked turkey bacon – 8 slices
  • Natural gelling agent – 1 teaspoon
  • Chopped pecans – 1/2 cup
  • Chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives) – 2 tablespoons
  • Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) – 1 tablespoon
  • Grape juice (natural) – 2 tablespoons
  • Minced garlic – 1 teaspoon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: Combine softened plant-based cheese with the natural gelling agent until smooth but firm. Mix in minced garlic and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) for savory depth.
  2. Add Moisture and Seasoning: Gradually stir in grape juice (natural) to maintain moisture without making it runny. Fold in finely chopped fresh herbs for flavor and color.
  3. Form the Ball: Shape the mixture into a round ball on wax paper. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up for easier decorating.
  4. Create the Pinecone Texture: Cut smoked turkey bacon into small scale-like pieces. Starting at the bottom of the cheese ball, layer and gently press the bacon pieces to mimic pinecone scales. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the surface for additional texture and decoration.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the decorated cheese ball for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld and hold the shape firmly before serving.

Notes

  • Use cold plant-based cheese before mixing for easier shaping.
  • Overlap bacon slices slightly for a realistic pinecone look.
  • Chop pecans uniformly for a neat texture.
  • Prepare 1-2 days ahead to deepen flavors and reduce party day prep.
  • Serve with neutral crackers or crisp apple slices to complement the richness.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No cooking required
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (about 1/8 of cheese ball)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Pinecone Cheese Ball, plant-based cheese, appetizer, party recipe, smoked turkey bacon, festive appetizer, gluten free, no bake

Find it online: https://puretastekitchen.com/pinecone-cheese-ball/