Flavored Cheese Balls

Basic Cheese Ball

1. Put butter, cream cheese, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment; mix on medium speed until combined. Divide equally among 3 medium bowls.

Cheddar and Cranberry Cheese Ball

1. Stir cheddar cheese and chutney with base mixture in the first bowl. Form into a ball. Roll cheese ball in cranberries to coat before serving. Serve with crackers.

Roquefort and Walnut Cheese Ball

1. Stir blue cheese and shallot with base mixture in second bowl; add brandy, if desired. Form into a ball. Roll in walnuts to coat before serving. Serve with chips.

Goat Cheese and Scallions Cheese Ball

1. Stir goat cheese and scallions with base mixture in remaining bowl. Form into a ball. Roll in parsley to coat before serving. Serve with cucumber slices.

Cook's Notes

If not using immediately, refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze up to 1 month.