Sweet Jalapeño Cheese Ball |

I made some jalapeño jelly this summer with the bounty of jalepenos that our garden produced. One way that my family enjoys using up this sweet and spicy condiment is by mixing some jelly with cream cheese and eating it with crackers or tortilla chips. It tastes really great, but I have to say that I think the presentation leaves something to be desired.

Since today is New Year’s Eve, I had to make something to bring to our church New Year’s Eve Party. I originally thought about bringing the jalapeño cream cheese dip, but then thought I could spice it up a bit and make a bit nicer looking. This cheese ball, made using the sweet jalapeño jelly, cheddar cheese, minced green onions and cilantro is what emerged. Having the privilege of preparing and tasting it, I can attest to the fact that it is de-lish. Now, I can’t wait to be able to dig into it a little bit later!

This Sweet Jalapeño Cheese Ball can be made to eat any time of the year, but for right now it is going to help me ring in the New Year. Along the same lines, I will wish you all a very Happy New Year as well. I know that I am going to enjoy this time with family and friends, and I hope you are able to do the same.

No matter what good or bad things have happened in 2013, I am choosing to thank the Lord for the many ways He has blessed me this past year. I am looking forward to the great things He has in store this next year, and whatever comes my way I am going to praise Him through it all…He is so good! Be blessed. -Shelley.

Sweet Jalapeño Cheese Ball

1 – 8 ounce package cream cheese
1/2 c shredded cheddar cheese to use in the cheese ball mixture {plus about 1/2 c more for the outside of cheese ball}
3 T jalapeño jelly
2 green onion stalks, chopped finely
1 t chopped cilantro
1 T canned or fresh jalapeños for extra kick, optional

In a mixing bowl add cream cheese, 1/2 c shredded cheddar cheese, jalapeño jelly, and green onions and cilantro. Stir well to combine.

At this point, taste the mixture to see if you would like more kick. If so, go ahead and add more chopped jalapeños for extra kick. I used these canned, sweet pickled jalapeños from this past summer. If using, add them and mix well to combine.

Using a rubber spatula, scrape the sides and bottom of bowl and try to form a ball, the best that you can, with the spatula.

Place some more shredded cheddar cheese on the bottom of a small plate or bowl. Carefully transfer the cheese ball on top of the shredded cheese. Then cover the top of the ball with some more shredded cheese. Carefully distribute the shredded cheese over the surface of the cheese ball, shaping into a nice ball.