There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a classic cheese ball, and our Kraft Cheese Ball with Old English cheese spread takes us right back to cherished gatherings. This creamy, tangy appetizer has been a crowd-pleaser for decades, blending simplicity with bold flavor. It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any occasion where comfort food steals the show.
We love how this recipe combines the rich, sharp taste of Old English cheese with just the right mix of seasonings. It’s easy to make ahead, and its retro charm always impresses guests. Whether you’re serving it with crackers, veggies, or pretzels, this cheese ball is guaranteed to disappear fast.
Kraft Cheese Ball Recipe With Old English
Get ready to make an incredible Kraft Cheese Ball with Old English, a deliciously nostalgic recipe that’s simple yet bursting with creamy, tangy flavors. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this crowd-pleasing classic.
Ingredients
Here’s everything we’ll need for this recipe:
- 1 jar (5 oz) Kraft Old English Cheese Spread, softened
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (for coating)
- Optional: Assorted crackers, vegetable sticks, or pretzels for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened Kraft Old English Cheese Spread and cream cheese. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Season the Cheese Base:
Add the garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce to the cheese mixture. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. This step enhances the bold flavors of the cheese ball.
- Chill the Mixture:
Transfer the cheese mixture to a clean bowl. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the cheese firm up, making it easier to shape.
- Shape the Cheese Ball:
Once chilled, remove the mixture from the fridge. Using clean hands, shape it into a ball. For an effortless shape, use plastic wrap to press and mold the cheese into a perfect sphere.
- Coat with Nuts:
Spread the chopped pecans or walnuts evenly across a plate. Gently roll the cheese ball in the nuts until it’s fully coated. Lightly press the nuts into the ball to ensure they stick.
- Plate and Serve:
Place the finished cheese ball on a decorative serving platter. Arrange crackers, veggie sticks, or pretzels around it for a beautiful presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This Kraft Cheese Ball with Old English is best paired with:
| Accompaniment | Description |
|---|---|
| Crackers | A classic, buttery option |
| Veggie Sticks | Crisp, refreshing contrast |
| Pretzels | Adds a satisfying crunch |
Enjoy this crowd-pleasing appetizer for holidays, dinner parties, or potlucks! Its vintage charm and vibrant flavor ensure it’ll be the star of the table.
Ingredients
To create this rich, creamy, and flavorful Kraft Cheese Ball with Old English, we’ll need the following ingredients for a perfect balance of texture and taste. Be sure to follow the order below as it reflects the preparation process:
- 2 jars (5 ounces each) of Kraft Old English Cheese Spread
- 1 package (8 ounces) of cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder for added depth of flavor
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for a subtle tanginess
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work best) for coating
Tips for Ingredient Preparation:
- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes for easy blending.
- Use freshly opened jars of Kraft Old English Cheese to guarantee the best flavor and consistency.
- For the chopped nuts, ensure an even, fine texture by pulsing them in a food processor or finely chopping with a chef’s knife.
This straightforward list of staple ingredients ensures simplicity while packing in bold, nostalgic flavors! Let’s move on to bringing these together.
Tools And Equipment
To achieve the perfect Kraft Cheese Ball with Old English, we need to have the right tools and equipment at our disposal. These basics make the preparation seamless and ensure the best results. Here is everything we recommend:
Essential Tools
- Mixing Bowls: Use one medium-sized bowl to mix the cheese ingredients and one large bowl for any prep work.
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: A hand or stand mixer helps blend the cream cheese and Kraft Old English Cheese Spread to a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Spatula: A silicone spatula comes in handy for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure every bit of the mixture is well incorporated.
- Measuring Spoons: Accurate seasoning requires precise measurements for the garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce.
- Plastic Wrap: To chill and shape the cheese ball, tightly wrapping the mixture ensures it sets properly and maintains its shape.
- Chopping Board and Knife: Use these to finely chop the nuts for coating the cheese ball. A sharp knife makes this step quicker and easier.
Optional, But Helpful
- Kitchen Scale: Perfect if you want to measure exact portions of the cheese or nuts for consistent outcomes.
- Serving Platter or Board: A large platter or charcuterie board presents the cheese ball beautifully alongside crackers and veggies.
- Nut Chopper: If preferred, a nut chopper can offer a faster, finely chopped coating for the cheese ball.
Quick Tool Checklist
To help better organize, refer to this quick essentials checklist below:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | For combining all ingredients and prepping the cheese mixture. |
| Hand or Stand Mixer | To blend the cheeses into a smooth and creamy texture. |
| Spatula | For scraping down bowl sides and handling the mixture. |
| Measuring Spoons | For seasoning measurement accuracy. |
| Plastic Wrap | To mold and chill the cheese ball properly. |
| Chopping Board | For preparing the nut coating. |
| Sharp Knife | To finely chop walnuts or any nut of your choice. |
Having these tools organized before starting ensures we can focus on creating the nostalgic and flavorful Kraft Cheese Ball with ease.
Directions
Making this Kraft Cheese Ball with Old English cheese spread is simple and enjoyable. Follow these steps to ensure your cheese ball turns out creamy, flavorful, and perfectly coated.
Prep
- Gather all your ingredients and tools. Refer back to our equipment list to ensure everything is within reach.
- Soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. This makes mixing smoother.
- Measure out the Kraft Old English Cheese Spread, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce using accurate measuring tools. Set them aside for easy access.
- Chop the nuts finely if not pre-chopped. Place them on a flat plate for later use.
Mix
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the Kraft Old English Cheese Spread. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, blend until smooth and well combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides with a spatula.
- Add garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. Continue mixing until the flavorings are fully incorporated.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary, but keep it subtle since the flavors will develop further during chilling.
Chill
- Transfer the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Use the plastic wrap to shape it into a rough ball or log shape.
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly and refrigerate it for at least 1–2 hours, or until firm. If preparing ahead, it can be chilled overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Once firm, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it evenly in the plate of chopped nuts to coat entirely. Use gentle pressure to ensure the nuts stick to the surface.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing a Kraft Cheese Ball with Old English in advance is a smart way to save time and reduce stress before your gathering. Here are our top make-ahead strategies to ensure your cheese ball is ready to impress:
1. Preparing the Cheese Mixture
We recommend mixing the cream cheese, Kraft Old English Cheese Spread, and seasonings ahead of time. Follow these steps:
- Combine softened cream cheese and Kraft Old English Cheese Spread until smooth.
- Add garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce, then mix until fully incorporated.
- Taste-test and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Store the mixture in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate for up to 48 hours before shaping.
2. Shaping and Chilling
Shaping can also be done beforehand to simplify your day-of prep.
- Once the cheese mixture is finished, shape it into a ball or log form using plastic wrap. For an extra festive touch, divide the mixture into smaller balls for individual servings.
- Wrap the shaped cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap.
- Chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 1–2 hours or up to 24 hours before serving. This ensures it firms up and the flavors meld nicely.
3. Coating with Nuts or Toppings
We suggest holding off on rolling the cheese ball in chopped nuts or your chosen toppings until shortly before serving. This ensures the outer coating stays crunchy and doesn’t become soggy. Keep your toppings prepped in advance by chopping and storing them in a separate airtight container.
4. Freezing for Long-Term Storage
For even earlier preparation, the cheese ball can be frozen without the nuts coating. Follow these guidelines:
- Wrap the shaped cheese ball in two layers of plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe zip-top bag.
- Label it with the date for tracking.
| Storage Type | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated (Without Nuts) | Up to 48 hours |
| Shaped and Chilled | Up to 24 hours |
| Frozen (Uncoated) | Up to 1 month |
When you’re ready to serve:
- Thaw the frozen cheese ball in the refrigerator overnight, then roll in nuts or other toppings before serving.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this Kraft Cheese Ball with Old English, the possibilities are as flexible as the appetizer itself. Its creamy, nostalgic flavor makes it the perfect centerpiece for both casual and festive gatherings. Whether hosting a cozy game night or a holiday feast, here are some ideas to present and pair this delightful cheese ball:
Arrange an Appetizer Platter
Create a visually appealing platter by pairing the cheese ball with a variety of items. Include an assortment of crackers, from buttery to whole grain, for textural variety. Vegetable sticks like celery, carrot, and cucumber add a refreshing crunch and make the platter colorful. Pretzels—rods, twists, or crisps—offer a salty balance to the cheese ball’s tangy flavor.
Build a Bread Basket
Serve the cheese ball with a selection of fresh bread for a hearty touch. Toasted baguette slices, pita triangles, or even bagel chips are excellent options. Warm the bread slightly before serving for a comforting experience.
Tailor to Special Themes
For a holiday spread, shape the cheese ball into a festive form, like a Christmas tree or ornament, and decorate with chopped herbs or pomegranate seeds. At themed parties, roll the cheese ball in colored seasoning or edible glitter for extra flair.
Presentation Tips
- Place the cheese ball at the center of the platter and surround it with accompaniments.
- Provide a cheese spreader or knife for easy serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
Serving Sizes
The cheese ball is perfect for sharing. Use the table below to determine servings based on the occasion and group size:
| Group Size | Cheese Ball Size | Number of Crackers/Accompaniments |
|---|---|---|
| Small Gathering (4–6 people) | Half Recipe | ~40 pieces total |
| Mid-Sized Party (8–12 people) | Full Recipe | ~70 pieces total |
| Large Event (15–20 people or more) | Double Recipe | ~100+ pieces total |
No matter how you serve it, this cheese ball recipe is versatile and reliably crowd-pleasing. Its creamy, nutty coating paired with bold, tangy flavors ensures that this dish will be a hit every time. Experimentation is encouraged, allowing you to tailor the accompaniments and presentation to fit the atmosphere of your event.
Storage And Leftovers
Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and flavors of our Kraft Cheese Ball with Old English. Whether you’re planning to enjoy leftovers or make the cheese ball ahead, here’s how to store it effectively.
Refrigeration
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there’s no air exposure.
- Place it in an airtight container for extra protection.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days.
- To serve, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to soften slightly.
Freezing for Future Use
For longer storage, freezing is a great option:
- Before coating with nuts, wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
- Label with the preparation date and freeze it for up to 1 month.
- When ready to use, thaw the cheese ball in the refrigerator overnight. Roll it in chopped nuts just before serving for the best texture.
Table of Storage Guidelines
| Storage Method | Timeframe | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 7 days | Wrap in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. |
| Freezer (without coating) | Up to 1 month | Wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw overnight in the fridge. |
| Room Temperature | Not Recommended | Always refrigerate or freeze for food safety and optimal flavor preservation. |
Leftover Tips
If any Kraft Cheese Ball remains after the party:
- Repurpose it: Spread leftovers on bagels, sandwiches, or use it as a filling for wraps.
- Refresh the coating: Add a fresh batch of chopped nuts or herbs to make it visually appealing again.
- Portion control: Divide leftovers into smaller portions before storing; smaller servings thaw faster and are easier to use.
Conclusion
This Kraft Cheese Ball with Old English is more than just an appetizer—it’s a timeless crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, this recipe ensures a stress-free yet impressive addition to your table.
With its nostalgic charm and bold taste, it’s a guaranteed hit that’ll have guests coming back for more. From preparation to presentation, this cheese ball delivers the perfect balance of ease and elegance, making it a must-have for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Kraft Cheese Ball made of?
A Kraft Cheese Ball is made using Kraft Old English Cheese Spread, cream cheese, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped nuts for coating. Its simple ingredient list creates a creamy, tangy, and flavorful appetizer perfect for any gathering.
Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture and shape it into a ball up to 24 hours in advance. However, it’s best to coat it with nuts just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
How do I serve the cheese ball?
The cheese ball pairs well with crackers, vegetable sticks, pretzels, or fresh bread. You can create an appetizer platter for varied options or shape and garnish the cheese ball for themed occasions.
How long can the cheese ball be stored?
Refrigerate the cheese ball in an airtight container for up to 5–7 days. For longer storage, freeze it without the nut coating for up to a month, then thaw and coat before serving.
Can I freeze the cheese ball?
Yes, you can freeze the cheese ball without the nut coating for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator, then coat with nuts before serving.
What equipment is needed for making a cheese ball?
You’ll need mixing bowls, a hand or stand mixer, a spatula, measuring spoons, plastic wrap, a chopping board, and a knife. Optional tools like a kitchen scale or nut chopper can improve precision.
How can I ensure the cheese ball holds its shape?
Chill the cheese mixture for 1–2 hours before shaping it into a ball or log. This step helps the mixture firm up and ensures it keeps its shape when coated and served.
Can I customize the cheese ball recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with add-ins like shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or spices to suit your taste. You can also switch the nuts for crushed crackers or seeds for the coating.
How many people does one cheese ball serve?
A standard cheese ball typically serves 8–10 people, depending on portion size and accompanying snacks. You can adjust the recipe to serve smaller or larger groups as needed.
What’s the best way to refresh leftovers?
If toppings lose their crunch, roll leftover cheese ball in fresh nuts or extras before serving again. Portion leftovers for convenience and use as spreads or in recipes like dips and sandwiches.