Christmas Taco Cheese Ball Wreath

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🎄 Christmas Taco Cheese Ball Wreath 🧀🌶️

Serves: 10–12

Total Time: 20 minutes (plus optional chilling)

Flavor Profile: Zesty, creamy, tangy, herbaceous, with fresh crunch and festive colors

Ingredients

Cheese Ball Mixture

  • 1 (16 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • ½ packet taco seasoning (about 1 tablespoon)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 bunch fresh cilantro, stems removed and finely chopped
  • 2 green onions, finely sliced
  • 1–2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded & finely diced (optional for heat)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Coating & Decorations

  • ½ cup diced red bell pepper
  • ½ cup diced green bell pepper
  • ⅓ cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro or parsley
  • Extra cheddar, optional for color

For Serving

  • Tortilla chips
  • Crackers
  • Veggie sticks
  • Mini peppers

⭐ Instructions

1. Make the Cheese Ball Base

In a mixing bowl, combine:

  • softened cream cheese
  • taco seasoning
  • shredded cheddar
  • cilantro
  • green onions
  • lime juice
  • jalapeño (optional)

Mash together until smooth and evenly mixed. Season with a bit of salt & pepper.

2. Shape Into a Wreath

  1. Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on the counter.
  2. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic in a ring shape.
  3. Wrap tightly and form into an even wreath / donut shape using your hands.
  4. Chill for 30–60 minutes (optional but helps it firm up).

3. Decorate the Wreath

  1. Unwrap the cheese wreath and place on a serving platter.
  2. Press on:
    • red bell pepper pieces
    • green bell pepper pieces
    • black olives
    • extra cilantro or parsley
  3. You can sprinkle extra shredded cheddar for a pop of color if desired.

Tip: Arrange the toppings in clusters to create a “holiday lights” effect!

4. Add a Bow (Optional but Adorable 🎀)

Place two strips of red bell pepper at the bottom to resemble a bow—or use a real decorative food-safe bow.

5. Serve

Place tortilla chips or crackers in the center of the wreath or around the edges and serve immediately.
This holds well at cool room temperature for 2–3 hours.

Tips & Variations

  • Make Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance and decorate just before serving.
  • Spicy Version: Add minced pickled jalapeños or ¼ tsp crushed red pepper.
  • Extra Creamy: Replace ½ the cheddar with Monterey Jack.
  • Low-carb Dip Board: Serve with cucumbers, celery, mini bell peppers, and pork rinds.

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