Everything Bagel Cheese Ball Recipe for Parties and Snacks

This Everything Bagel Cheese Ball is a fun, flavorful appetizer that’s rich and can be made completely ahead of time.

I’ve always enjoyed a good cheese ball and will take any reason to make one for a gathering or holiday. They’re easy to prepare, impressive to serve, and endlessly adaptable.

While cheese balls can be rolled in herbs, nuts, or toasted breadcrumbs, everything bagel seasoning is one of my favorites. The sesame and poppy seeds, along with onion and garlic, add great texture and savory bite.

I first shared this recipe on my YouTube channel in 2015 and am glad to include it here now. It’s straightforward and makes a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

How to Make this Cheese Ball Recipe:

A food processor makes this recipe quick and simple, but there are notes below for making it without one.

Shred the Cheddar First

Start by shredding a block of white cheddar using the shredding disk:

Freshly shredded cheese is preferable to pre-shredded varieties because it lacks anti-caking agents and melts and mixes more smoothly.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Switch blades and add softened cream cheese, sliced fresh chives, ground chipotle pepper, and cayenne pepper to the shredded cheddar:

I don’t add salt because the cheeses provide plenty of seasoning, but you can adjust to taste.

Blend It Up

Process the mixture until combined, about one minute, stopping to scrape down the sides if needed:

Shape the Cheese Ball

Scrape the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and begin shaping it into a ball by folding up the edges of the wrap:

Gather the wrap and form the mixture into a rough sphere, then fully wrap and roll with your hands to smooth it out as much as possible:

Don’t worry about small surface irregularities—they’ll be covered in seasoning.

Refrigerate Until Firm

Chill the wrapped ball in the refrigerator for about an hour until it feels firm, then unwrap:

Coat the Outside

Pour everything bagel seasoning onto a plate and roll the cheese ball to coat the exterior evenly:

Serve with Crackers

Place the coated cheese ball on a serving board and surround it with sturdy crackers. A Wheat Thins–style cracker works well, or provide a cheese knife so guests can cut and spread easily:

Other cheesy appetizers I enjoy include puff pastry cheese straws, mac and cheese cups, baked brie, and stuffed mini peppers.

Cheese Ball Recipe FAQ and Tips:

Make-ahead: You can prepare the cheese ball through the refrigeration step up to 3 days in advance. For best texture and appearance, wait to roll it in the everything bagel seasoning until just before serving.

Leftovers: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing: This cheese ball freezes reasonably well for up to 2 months if stored in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Alternative coatings: If you prefer something different, try chopped fresh herbs (like chives or parsley), chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), or toasted breadcrumbs.