Ingredients:

  • 2 blocks (16 oz / 450 g) Full-fat Cream Cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (115 g / 4 oz) Unsalted Butter, softened
  • 1 cup (115 g) Sharp Cheddar Cheese, finely grated
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) Full-fat Sour Cream or Crème Fraîche
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon (5 g) Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) Onion Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (3 g) Fine Sea Salt (adjust based on cheese salinity)
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1/2 cup (85 g) Everything Bagel Seasoning

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Base: Ensure the cream cheese and butter are thoroughly softened (about 30 minutes at room temperature). If using a stand mixer, use the paddle attachment. If mixing by hand, use a sturdy rubber spatula.
  2. Cream the Fats: Combine the softened cream cheese and butter in a large bowl. Beat until the mixture is light, completely smooth, and homogenous—no lumps allowed.
  3. Add Liquid Tang: Mix in the sour cream, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  4. Fold in the Solids: Gently fold in the grated Cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix only until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Avoid over-mixing once the cheese is added, as this can make the texture gluey.
  5. Initial Shape: Scrape the entire mixture onto a large sheet of cling film (plastic wrap). Gather the edges of the film and gently work the mixture into a rough ball shape.
  6. Tighten and Chill: Twist the cling film tightly around the ball to compress it and create a dense, round sphere. Place the wrapped cheeseball on a small plate and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, or until it is solid and holds its shape perfectly.
  7. Prep the Coating: Just before serving, spread the Everything Bagel Seasoning evenly on a shallow plate or baking sheet.
  8. Unwrap and Roll: Carefully unwrap the chilled cheeseball. Place the ball onto the seasoning and roll it firmly, ensuring the entire surface is coated thickly and evenly. Gently press the seasoning into the sides if necessary.
  9. Serve: Place the coated cheeseball on a serving platter surrounded by dipping accompaniments like crackers, pretzel rods, or sliced baguette.