Ingredients:

  • 16 oz (450 g) full-fat Cream Cheese, 2 blocks, softened
  • 2 Tbsp (30 g) Unsalted Butter, softened
  • 4 oz (115 g) soft, crumbled Goat Cheese
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) Fresh Chives, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • ½ tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • ½ tsp Flaky Sea Salt, or to taste
  • ¼ tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper, or to taste
  • ½ cup (120 ml) Everything Bagel Seasoning

Instructions:

  1. Softening the Stars: Ensure the cream cheese, butter, and goat cheese are truly at room temperature. This is crucial for a lump-free, fluffy mixture.
  2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), beat the cream cheese, softened butter, and goat cheese on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth, creamy, and voluminous—about 2 to 3 minutes. Stop and scrape down the bowl frequently.
  3. Season Up: Reduce the speed to low. Add the chopped chives, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix at this stage.
  4. Taste and Adjust: Taste a small spoonful. Adjust salt or pepper if needed. The flavour should be pronounced, as chilling will slightly mute the seasoning.
  5. Initial Shape: Scrape the cheese mixture onto a large sheet of cling film (plastic wrap). Gather the edges of the film and use your hands to gently compress and mould the mixture into a rough ball shape.
  6. Tighten the Form: Twist the cling film tightly around the ball to compress it further and create a smooth, even sphere. Ensure no air pockets remain.
  7. The Essential Chill: Place the tightly wrapped cheese ball onto a small plate or dish and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, or until the ball is completely firm to the touch. This step ensures the ball holds its shape when coated.
  8. Prep the Coating: Spread the Everything Bagel Seasoning evenly onto a shallow plate or tray.
  9. Unwrap and Coat: Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and carefully place it onto the seasoning. Gently press the seasoning into the surface, turning the ball frequently, until the entire surface is uniformly covered. Press firmly to ensure the seasoning adheres well.
  10. Final Chill (Optional but Recommended): Place the coated cheese ball back in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes to set the coating.
  11. Serve: Place the coated cheese ball on a serving platter surrounded by dipping vessels. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for optimal spreading texture.