Tastefully Simple Apple Crisp Cheeseball

Apple flavored foods are another tell tale sign that fall is settling in.  For parties, especially wine parties, I like to put out cheese balls from Tastefully Simple.  They are easy to make - just add the mix to softened cream cheese.  This time I made an Apple Crisp Cheese ball that is so flavorful and delicious, you will never believe it was so simple.  Serve this with graham crackers or teddy bear shaped graham cracker snacks.  The teddy bear is the perfect size for dipping and holds up well.  They are cute too!

As usual, I am always looking for a bargain.  You can buy the cheese ball mix directly from Tastefully Simple or you can go to eBay and find some hostess packs - that is what I do.  I found mine for $2 plus shipping.  They are half size versions of the ones sold at parties but they are a great way to try them out before you buy a full size or for a small event.

I decided to jazz up the cheese ball presentation from the usual ball shape and place it into a small bread ceramic baking dish.  The dishes can be found at local dollar stores or mega stores that sell baking dishes.  They cost about $1 and can be found with different designs on them.  They also make a great gift.


Ingredients:

4 oz cream cheese, softened (or 8 oz. for the full sized ball)
1 bag of Apple Crisp Cheese ball - this contains 2 small packages

Package of Apple Crisp Cheese ball Mix

The fist package is for the cream cheese.  Add the cream cheese and package 1 to a small bowl.  Mix until well incorporated.  It will be a light brown color.  You can mix with a spoon, but I use the hand mixer.  It is easier and you know the ingredients are evenly dispersed.

Softened cream cheese in bowl

Package 1 added and mixing into cream cheese

There are two things to do now that the mixture.  If you want it to be a ball, shape the cream cheese mixture into a ball.  Place the ball into the refrigerator until the ball is firm.  If you want to serve it in a bowl or baking dish, place it in there now.

Small baking dish for the cheese ball

Mixture smoothed into dish

If you are making the ball, after firming up the ball in refrigerator take it out and roll it in the contents of package 2, which has been placed on a small plate.  Cover the ball completely.  Serve.
If you are using the dish, simply sprinkle the contents of package 2 over the top, cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours and then it is ready to serve.

Covered with the graham cracker crust from package 2.

This cheese ball is easy to make and everyone will love it.  Try it at your next fall party.