16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for the outer coating
2 large pretzel twists for the antlers
2 whole black olives for the eyes
1 red cherry tomato or a small piece of red bell pepper for the nose
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Use a sturdy spatula or a hand mixer on low speed to blend everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and the spices are evenly distributed.
Once the mixture is well blended, use your hands to form it into a large, smooth ball. If the mixture feels too soft to handle, you can place the bowl in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to firm it up. For a cleaner process, wrap the cheese mixture in a piece of plastic wrap and use the wrap to help mold it into a perfect sphere.
Place the chopped pecans or walnuts in a shallow bowl or on a large plate. Roll the cheese ball gently in the nuts, pressing them lightly so they adhere to the entire surface. Ensure the ball is fully covered, as this creates the brown fur appearance of the reindeer and adds a wonderful crunch.
Carefully transfer the coated ball onto your serving platter. Press two large pretzel twists into the top sides of the ball to act as antlers. Place the two black olives in the center for eyes and press the cherry tomato or red pepper slice just below the eyes to create a bright red nose. Your festive appetizer is now ready to serve.
