Pear Pecan Cheese Ball

 

Pear Pecan Cheese Ball

Ingredients

• 8 oz. cream cheese
• 1 1/4 c. shredded extra-sharp white cheddar
• 1 firm ripe pear
• 1 tsp. dried minced shallot or 2 T. finely chopped chives
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 c. finely chopped toasted pecans
• 2 T. finely chopped chives

Instructions

• Bring the cream cheese to room temperature.
• Finely dice the pear.
• Stir together the cream cheese, shredded cheese, pear, dried shallot, salt and pepper.
• Coat a large piece of plastic wrap with cooking spray.  Scoop the cheese mixture onto it.  Using the plastic wrap, form the cheese mixture into a ball, then completely wrap in plastic.  Refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 2 days.
• Just before serving, combine the pecans and the chives on a plate.  Roll the cheese ball in the mixture, pressing to adhere on all sides.
• Serve with crackers and celery sticks.