Name: Snowman Cheese Ball Recipe – One of the Best Appetizers
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: PT-488281H39M54S
Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients: 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any sharp cheese); ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; Salt to taste; Optional: finely chopped chives, crispy bacon bits, diced jalapeños; 1 baby carrot (for nose); 2 black olives (for eyes and buttons); 2 pretzel sticks (for arms); Red bell pepper (for scarf or hat band); Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional coating); Toothpicks (for support)

Jump to Recipe

It’s that time of year again—when your fridge is packed, your kitchen smells like cinnamon, and your calendar is full of potlucks and family dinners. And if you’re on appetizer duty this holiday season, let me introduce you to your new best friend: the Snowman Cheese Ball.

This adorable little guy is more than just a pretty face. He’s creamy, cheesy, packed with flavor, and downright fun to make. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering, need a make-ahead appetizer, or just want to surprise your kids with some cute holiday food, this snowman-shaped snack is about to become a seasonal favorite.

So, grab your cream cheese, put on some festive tunes, and let’s build a snowman that you can eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s the thing about this holiday cheese ball recipe—it hits the sweet spot between festive charm and serious flavor. Here’s why it works for pretty much everyone on your guest list:

Festive and Fun

It’s literally shaped like a snowman. You could serve a bowl of hummus, sure… or you could bring a DIY edible snowman that makes people smile before they even take a bite.

Super Easy to Make

No oven, no stress. Just mix, roll, and decorate.

Make-Ahead Friendly

Got a million things to prep on the day of the party? No problem. You can build your snowman a day ahead, chill him in the fridge, and dress him up right before showtime.

Customizable

Want it spicy? Add jalapeños. Love herbs? Toss in some chives. You can tweak the flavors or even make it dairy-free.

Party-Perfect

It’s one of those creative cheese ball ideas that doubles as a conversation starter. And yes, it tastes as good as it looks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break it down into two parts: the cheesy goodness inside, and the fun stuff you’ll use to bring your snowman to life.

Cheese Ball Ingredients

You’ll need:

2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any sharp cheese you like)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
Optional mix-ins: finely chopped chives, crispy bacon bits, diced jalapeños

This makes a savory, creamy cheese ball mixture with enough flavor to hold its own on any appetizer tray.

Decoration Items

Here’s where the snowman magic happens:

1 baby carrot (for the carrot nose)
2 black olives (for eyes and buttons)
2 pretzel sticks (for pretzel arms)
Red bell pepper (for a scarf or hat band)
Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for an optional green parsley coating)
Toothpicks (for assembly support)

Serving Suggestions

You’ll want a mix of textures for dipping and spreading:

Assorted crackers
Mini toasts
Pita chips
Fresh veggies (cucumber slices, carrot sticks, celery)

How to Make a Snowman Cheese Ball – Step-by-Step

1: Mix the Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and any extras (chives, bacon, jalapeños). Mix until well combined.

This is the cheesy base. You could honestly stop right here and call it a Christmas cheese dip, but we’ve got bigger (snowman-sized) dreams.

2: Shape the Snowman

Scoop out two portions of the cheese mixture—one slightly larger than the other. These will be your snowman’s body and head.

Roll each into a ball using your hands. (Pro tip: lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking.)

3: Chill the Cheese Balls

Place both cheese balls on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up and makes assembly easier.

Keyword check: Yep, this is a cold appetizer with clear chilling instructions.

4: Coat with Parsley (Optional)

Once chilled, roll the cheese balls in chopped parsley for a green “frosted” look. You can also use crushed nuts or shredded white cheese if you want a more snow-like effect.

This adds texture, color, and bonus flavor to your seasonal cheese ball.

5: Assemble the Snowman

Place the larger cheese ball (body) on your serving platter. Add a toothpick or two on top, then gently press the smaller ball (head) onto it. It should stand upright.

Now the fun really begins.

6: Decorate the Snowman

Press in black olive slices for the eyes and buttons.
Stick a baby carrot into the center of the face for a nose.
Add pretzel sticks on each side for arms.
Use thin strips of red bell pepper to form a scarf or festive trim.

You now have a decorated appetizer that’s also the centerpiece of your holiday snack spread.

7: Serve and Enjoy

Surround your snowman with crackers, chips, and colorful veggie sticks. When guests start to dig in, don’t be surprised if he disappears in under 10 minutes.

Looking for more creative appetizer ideas? Try this taco dip recipe that’s always a hit at gatherings.

Tips and Variations

Spice It Up

Add cayenne or chopped jalapeños for a kick. Use pepper jack cheese for even more heat.

Add Bacon

Mix crispy bacon bits into the cheese mixture or sprinkle some on top for smoky goodness.

Herb Lovers

Fresh dill, thyme, or rosemary make great mix-ins and toppings.

Sweet & Savory Option

Add a swirl of honey and chopped dried cranberries for a fun twist.

Dairy-Free Friendly

Use a plant-based cream cheese and vegan cheddar. Your diet-conscious guests will thank you.

No matter how you tweak it, this remains a cute holiday food idea that brings the festive vibes.

How to Store Your Snowman Cheese Ball

Fridge-Friendly

Wrap your assembled snowman in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

If you’re making it ahead, wait to add the carrot nose, olive eyes, and pretzel arms until just before serving. Those parts tend to dry out or get soggy.

Pairing Suggestions

Drinks to Serve With It

Spiced apple cider (for the kiddos)
Mulled wine or holiday punch (for the grown-ups)

Appetizer Boards

Meats like salami or prosciutto
Pickles, olives, and roasted nuts
Soft cheeses and jam for contrast

Holiday Brunch Pairing

Serve this snowman alongside egg muffins, hash browns, or mini quiches for a full festive spread.

Pair your cheese ball with a festive dessert like these Valentine’s Day cookies for a colorful spread.

Bonus: Kids Can Help Too!

This recipe doubles as an edible craft. Let the kids roll the cheese balls (with clean hands, of course), place the olive eyes, or design the scarf.

It’s messy, fun, and they’ll proudly tell everyone at the table: “I made that snowman!”

Close-up of snowman cheese ball decorated with olives, carrot, parsley, and pretzel sticks, surrounded by crackers and cherry tomatoes.

Festive snowman cheese ball appetizer for Thanksgiving with crackers and vegetables on a holiday platter.

Final Thoughts

The Snowman Cheese Ball is everything you want in a holiday appetizer: festive, flavorful, and flat-out adorable. Whether you’re throwing a big party or just making memories with your family in the kitchen, this guy’s got you covered.

Snowman Cheese Ball Recipe – One of the Best Appetizers