Mini Smoked Gouda Cheese Balls

We’ve given this classic 60’s appetizer a modern twist with a smokey Dutch Gouda and pretzel “handles”.

Prep time: 35 minutes 

Chill: at least 1 hour

1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, softened

1 cup cubed Beemster Gouda

3 green onions

Finely chopped smoked almonds and minced green onion tops

Small pretzel sticks

1. Place cream cheese in a food processor and process until smooth. Add cheese to food processor. Sliced the 3 green onions and add to food processor. Process until cheese and green onions are finely chopped, scraping down the sides as needed.

2. Transfer to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm.

3. Stir together almonds and green onions.

4. Using wet hands, scoop about 1/2-inch dollops than drop into almond and onion mixture. Roll lightly in mixture to shape into balls, pressing lightly into the surface. Cover and chill until ready to serve.

5. Serve with pretzel stick “toothpicks”.