Sweet and Savory Goat Cheese Balls Appetizer

This Sweet and Savory Goat Cheese Balls Appetizer is made with many of my go-to cheese board ingredients: smooth, creamy cheese, sweet fruit, crunchy nuts, and fresh herbs. And they're all rolled together into a bite-sized snack!

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sweet and savory appetizer

What if I told you that you could taste the wonderful flavors of your favorite charcuterie board in just one bite?

I promise, it's not too good to be true. These sweet and savory goat cheese balls are made with many of my go-to cheese board ingredients: smooth, creamy cheese, sweet fruit, crunchy nuts, and fresh herbs. And they're all rolled together into a bite-sized snack!

These goat cheese balls were inspired by a holiday favorite, but they can be enjoyed any time of year. Slice with a knife and spread on a cracker or piece of bread, pair with your favorite meat, or simply take a bite—either way, cue the taste bud confetti! This is such a fun appetizer you can use in any way you'd like.

I purchased all of the delicious ingredients for this recipe from Trader Joe's. Pick them up on your next run and give these cheese balls a try!

make these goat cheese balls with simple ingredients

Cream Cheese: I used half a block of plain cream cheese. You could use a flavored one if you want to add more flavor!

Goat Cheese: You'll want to use 1 small log for this recipe. So creamy and easy to shape into balls!

Mint Leaves: Mint and goat cheese, guys. It's a combo you don't want to sleep on! We'll use about 3 tablespoons of finely chopped leaves in this recipe.

Dried Mango: You can get bags of dried mango at most grocery stores. Even dried, it has deliciously sweet flavor.

Pistachios: I used these honey roasted ones. So yummy!

Honey: To add some more sweetness.

Olive Oil or Spray: This will make it easier to shape our ingredients into balls.

Kitchen tools you'll need

To make this sweet and savory cheese balls appetizer, you'll need a cutting board, knife, mixing bowl, and a rubber spatula.

How to make this Sweet and Savory Goat Cheese Balls Appetizer

1. In a mixing bowl, fold together cream cheese and goat cheese until combined. 
2. Finely dice mint leaves, dried mango, and pistachios. Add to the cheese and fold. Pour in honey. Fold again.
3. Put in the fridge and let sit for 10 minutes. 
4. Take bowl out of the fridge. Have your serving plate ready. Spray your hands with a bit of cooking spray. This will prevent the cheese from sticking to your hands while we roll the ingredients into balls. 
5. Roll cheese into equal-sized balls. This recipe will make approximately 10.
6. Enjoy!

Other ways to enjoy your Sweet and Savory Goat Cheese Balls Appetizer

There are SO MANY ways to enjoy these goat cheese balls! I would enjoy them as part of a charcuterie board with crackers, fruits, and bread. They're so soft and easy to spread on whatever you like, and all of your guests can have their own ball.

Instead of rolling into tiny individual balls, you can also make one big ball your guests can dig in to. If you choose this, it would also make a beautiful addition to a your holiday table spread.

Here's a wilder idea: Deep fry them! Roll these goat cheese balls in some panko bread crumbs and cook in some sizzling oil. This will add warmth, crunch, and make the cheese even creamier!

Easy alternatives

The best part about these goat cheese balls is that you can put in whatever ingredients and flavors you like! Don't like mango? Try a different dried fruit like peaches, apricots, or prunes. I wouldn't recommend using fresh fruit, however. I haven't tested it, but I'd be weary about the water content. I'm not sure the cheese and fruit would stick together. However, you could always try and add a binding ingredient like crushed pretzels or crackers.

Not into mint? Try dried basil or thyme. If you want more of a sweet flavor, you could omit the herb all together. But the combination of fruit/cheese/herb is divine!

Love the idea, but not sure on the flavors? Stick to flavors you like. I recommend using a flavored cream cheese and building from there. What ingredients do you think would pair well with the flavor you chose? If you choose something sweet, add something savory and vice versa!

Questions & answers

How do I store these cheese balls?
These must be stored in the refrigerator. They also should not be left out for more than 4 hours.

Any tips for success?
When you're ready to roll the cheese mixture into balls, spray your hands with cooking oil or extra virgin olive oil. You may need someone to do it for you. Then, roll the cheese between your palms to form balls. It’s infinitely easier and there is minimal cheese stuck to your hands afterwards. The best of both worlds!

Can I freeze this recipe?
No, I don't recommend freezing this recipe.

Other complimentary recipes

Steak Caprese Salad

Dessert Charcuterie Board

Fresh Mango Salsa

Spinach and Roasted Tomato Dip

I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. It’s my passion to create dishes that can be shared with others. Tell me something you loved, something that you think it might need, or just say hi!

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