16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked turkey bacon, finely crumbled
1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
24 pretzel sticks or toothpicks for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Cheese Base In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and the ranch seasoning mix together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Once the base is creamy, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled turkey bacon, and half of the sliced green onions using a spatula.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating Station On a shallow plate or in a small bowl, mix the remaining turkey bacon, the remaining green onions, and the finely chopped pecans. Stir them together until the colors are evenly distributed, creating a festive green, brown, and gold mixture for the outside of your bites.
Step 3: Roll the Bites Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the cheese mixture into balls about one inch in diameter. Roll each portion between your palms until it is smooth and round. If the mixture is too sticky, you can lightly dampen your hands with water or chill the bowl in the fridge for ten minutes before rolling.
Step 4: Coat and Chill Roll each cheese ball into the topping mixture, pressing gently so the turkey bacon and nuts adhere to the surface. Place the finished bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Insert a pretzel stick or a festive toothpick into the center of each bite, then refrigerate for at least thirty minutes before serving to help them firm up.
