Why This Bacon Cheese Ball Wreath Is a Must-Make for Your Holidays

This recipe brings together the universally loved flavors of smoky bacon, rich cream cheese, and sharp cheddar into a perfectly balanced, savory delight. What makes it truly stand out for the holiday season is its delightful wreath shape, which is surprisingly simple to achieve. Imagine the gasps of delight as you present this beautiful appetizer at your Christmas party or family gathering. It’s not just food; it’s an experience, setting a festive tone from the very first bite. Plus, it uses common ingredients you might already have, making it a convenient choice for busy holiday hosts.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this cheese ball offers a fantastic blend of textures – crispy bacon, smooth cream cheese, and the slight crunch of fresh vegetables. It’s robust enough to satisfy serious snackers yet refined enough for elegant entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a grand feast or an intimate gathering, this Bacon Cheese Ball Wreath is guaranteed to be a memorable addition to your holiday spread, leaving your guests asking for the recipe!

Effortless Ingredients for a Spectacular Dish

One of the best aspects of this holiday cheese wreath is its simplicity. Requiring only nine core ingredients, many of which are likely staples in your pantry or easily found at your local grocery store, it streamlines your holiday prep. We recommend using high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor, but rest assured, this recipe is designed to be accessible and straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need to create this festive masterpiece:

Ingredients for Your Bacon Cheese Ball Wreath

• OSCAR MAYER Naturally Hardwood Smoked Bacon: The star of the show, providing a rich, smoky, and crispy texture.
• PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free mixture.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle, aromatic depth of flavor without being overpowering.
• Onion Powder: Complements the garlic, enhancing the savory profile.
• Black Pepper: A touch of freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of warmth and spice.
• LEA & PERRINS Worcestershire Sauce: This secret ingredient provides an umami kick that brings all the flavors together.
• KRAFT Sharp Cheddar Shredded Cheese: The sharp notes of cheddar cut through the richness of the cream cheese, adding tang and texture.
• Fresh Parsley: Essential for both flavor and visual appeal, especially when forming the “wreath.”
• Red Bell Pepper: Diced into small pieces, it adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh, crisp element.
• Buttery Crackers & Assorted Vegetables: For serving, these provide the perfect vessel for scooping up the delicious cheese ball.

Creating the Festive Wreath Shape: Simple Steps for Stunning Presentation

While you could certainly roll this mixture into a traditional cheese ball, the holiday season calls for something extra special! Shaping it into a wreath adds an incredible festive touch that truly transforms it into a show-stopping appetizer. The good news is, it’s surprisingly easy to achieve this impressive look using a standard Bundt pan. Follow these straightforward steps to create your beautiful Bacon Cheese Ball Wreath:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bacon: Cook your OSCAR MAYER Naturally Hardwood Smoked Bacon according to package directions until perfectly crispy. Many prefer cooking bacon in the oven for even crispness and easier cleanup; simply lay strips on a broiler pan, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. Once cooked, let the bacon cool completely. This is crucial for maintaining its crispness. When fully cooled, chop the bacon into small, bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2. Begin the Cheese Base: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the softened PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and LEA & PERRINS Worcestershire Sauce. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
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4. Incorporate Flavor and Texture: Add the shredded KRAFT Sharp Cheddar Cheese and the chopped crispy bacon pieces to the cream cheese mixture. Continue to beat with the electric mixer, or mix thoroughly with a sturdy spoon, until all ingredients are evenly distributed and fully combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cheese ball.
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6. Shape the Wreath: Line an 8-inch Bundt pan generously with plastic wrap, ensuring there’s enough overhang to cover the top once filled. This will make it easy to remove the wreath later. Scoop the entire cheese mixture into the prepared Bundt pan. Press the mixture down firmly and evenly to fill the mold completely, paying attention to the details of the pan’s design. Cover with the excess plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to hold its shape.
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8. Unmold and Garnish: Once thoroughly chilled, remove the Bundt pan from the refrigerator. Invert the pan onto your chosen serving platter. Carefully remove the Bundt pan, then gently peel away and discard the plastic wrap, revealing your perfectly shaped cheese wreath.
9. Add the Greenery: Finely chop a generous amount of fresh parsley. Gently press the chopped parsley onto the entire outside surface of the cheese wreath. This creates the beautiful “greenery” effect, mimicking a traditional holiday wreath and adding a fresh, vibrant flavor.
10. Final Touches and Serve: Top your stunning wreath with small, diced pieces of red bell pepper. These vibrant red “berries” provide a beautiful contrast against the green parsley. Arrange a selection of buttery crackers, vegetable sticks (such as celery, carrots, cucumber, and bell pepper slices), or crusty bread around the wreath for an inviting presentation. Serve immediately and watch it disappear!

*A note on cooking bacon: I personally find that cooking bacon in the oven yields consistently crispy, flat strips with minimal mess. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C), lay the bacon strips on a broiler pan, and cook for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and perfectly crispy. The grease conveniently drains through the pan, making disposal incredibly easy and cleanup a breeze.

Tips for a Perfect Bacon Cheese Ball Wreath Every Time

• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This is non-negotiable for a smooth, homogenous mixture. Cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy texture that’s difficult to blend evenly.
• Crispy Bacon is Key: Don’t skimp on cooking the bacon until it’s truly crispy. Soggy bacon will detract from the texture. Pat off any excess grease before chopping.
• Chilling Time Matters: The minimum 1 hour chilling time is essential for the cheese ball to firm up and hold its wreath shape. For best results, or if making ahead, chill for at least 2-3 hours, or even overnight.
• Even Pressing in the Bundt Pan: When scooping the mixture into the Bundt pan, ensure you press it down firmly and evenly into all crevices. This guarantees a well-defined wreath shape when unmolded.
• Garnish Generously: The parsley and red bell pepper are not just for looks; they add fresh flavors that brighten the rich cheese ball. Don’t be shy when pressing on the parsley to ensure full coverage.
• Plan Your Platter: Choose a serving platter that complements the size of your wreath and leaves enough space for your chosen dippers around the edge for an inviting spread.

Recipe Variations: Unleash Your Creativity!

While this Bacon Cheese Ball Wreath is spectacular as is, don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste or for different occasions. Here are some ideas to spark your culinary imagination:

• Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, finely chop some fresh jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat, leave them in for more!) and mix them into the cheese ball mixture. A pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can also add a delightful warmth.
• Bacon Ranch Delight: For a popular flavor combination, add 1-2 tablespoons of dry ranch seasoning mix to the cream cheese mixture. This creates a savory, herb-infused cheese ball that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Extra Cheesy Goodness: Elevate the cheese factor by adding a quarter cup of KRAFT Shredded Parmesan Cheese or another favorite, like smoked gouda, into the mix. This provides an additional layer of complex flavor.
• Nutty Crunch: For added texture and a touch of earthiness, fold in a quarter cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts with the bacon and cheddar. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding will enhance their flavor.
• Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with different fresh herbs! Instead of just parsley, consider incorporating finely chopped chives, dill, or a mix of Italian herbs for a unique aroma and taste.
• Sweet & Savory: For a unexpected twist, a tablespoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup can be added to the cream cheese mixture, creating a delightful sweet and savory profile that pairs wonderfully with the bacon.

Serving Suggestions for Your Festive Wreath

The presentation of your Bacon Cheese Ball Wreath is almost as important as its taste! We love serving this cheeseball with classic buttery crackers, as their rich flavor and crisp texture are a perfect match. However, there are many other fantastic options to consider:

• Fresh Vegetable Sticks: A vibrant array of crudités like celery sticks, carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips (red, yellow, orange), and cauliflower florets offer a refreshing crunch and a lighter option.
• Artisan Breads: Sliced baguette, rustic sourdough, or toasted pita bread wedges provide a sturdy base and sophisticated touch.
• Pretzel Crisps or Sticks: For a salty, crunchy contrast that’s irresistibly addictive.
• Apple Slices: Thinly sliced crisp apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) offer a delightful sweet and tart counterpoint to the savory cheese.
• Mini Toasts or Crostini: Perfect for more elegant presentations.

Arrange your chosen dippers artfully around the wreath on a large platter to create an inviting and bountiful display that will tempt every guest.

Common Questions About Your Bacon Cheese Ball Wreath

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  • Absolutely! This Bacon Cheese Ball Wreath is an ideal make-ahead appetizer, which is a huge time-saver during the busy holiday season. You can prepare the entire cheese ball, shape it in the Bundt pan, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days in advance. Just before serving, unmold it, garnish with fresh parsley and red bell pepper, and arrange your dippers. This allows you to focus on other aspects of your holiday hosting.
• Do I have to cook the bacon in the oven?
  • No, you can cook the bacon using your preferred method! Whether you pan-fry it, air-fry it, or microwave it, the key is to ensure it’s cooked until crispy and then thoroughly cooled before being incorporated into the cheese mixture. However, many (including myself) find the oven method incredibly convenient for its even crisping, flat strips, and remarkably easy cleanup with minimal grease splatter.
• What if I don’t have a Bundt pan?
  • No problem! While the Bundt pan creates the perfect wreath shape, you can still make a beautiful cheese ball. You can simply shape the mixture into a large, round ball by hand or form it into a log. If you want a more defined shape, you could press it into a small springform pan (then unmold) or even a clean, empty tuna can (lined with plastic wrap) for a smaller, cylindrical cheese shape. Get creative with what you have!
• How long does the cheese ball last in the refrigerator?
  • When properly stored in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap, this Bacon Cheese Ball Wreath can last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. However, for the best flavor and texture, we recommend serving it within 2 days of preparation, especially if using fresh garnishes.

If you’re a fan of festive cheese balls, be sure to also check out this delightful Cranberry Orange Pecan Cheeseball for another incredible flavor profile!

Make Your Holidays Unforgettable with this Cheese Ball Wreath

If you choose to make just one appetizer this holiday season, let it be this magnificent Bacon Cheese Ball Wreath. Its vibrant appearance, combined with its irresistible savory flavor, guarantees it will be the star of your appetizer table. Your family and guests will undoubtedly be impressed and thoroughly delighted, making your holiday celebrations even more memorable.

To save yourself precious time during the festive rush, consider utilizing grocery pickup services for all your holiday shopping needs. This allows you more moments to create and enjoy delicious dishes like this one!

What are some of your favorite holiday traditions? Share them in the comments below, and let us know how this Bacon Cheese Ball Wreath makes your celebrations extra special!

Original recipe inspiration from Tamara (Like) Camera.