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When it comes to party appetizers, you can't go wrong with goat cheese balls. They're cheap, delicious, and easy to make. But instead of throwing on some pepper and calling it a day, take some inspiration from the everything bagel. This breakfast favorite has a way of making taste buds sing. Plus, the iconic spice blend can be re-created with ingredients from your own pantry. Here's how to make it happen.
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Things You Need
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 2 tablespoons fennel seeds
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 3 teaspoons dried minced garlic
- 3 teaspoons dried minced onion
- 10.5 ounces goat cheese
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Mix the Spices
Combine all of the spices into a bowl. Stir until thoroughly mixed.
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Cut the Cheese
Slice a ½ -inch thick piece of goat cheese.
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Mold the Cheese Into Balls
With clean hands, roll the slice of goat cheese into a ball.
Tip: This step can get really messy, especially if it's a warm day. Consider slicing the entire log of goat cheese at once. Next, roll all of the balls in one go. It's the fastest, most efficient way to approach this step without having to constantly wash your hands.
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Coat in Spices
As you roll each ball, drop it into the bowl of everything bagel spice. Toss the cheese balls around until they're evenly coated.
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Chill
Line up the coated cheese balls on a metal baking sheet. Pop them in the refrigerator for no more than 15 minutes.
Tip: After rolling the goat cheese balls with your hands, they'll be a bit warm. This step is meant to simply chill them. However, don't leave them in for too long, because they'll harden up and become crumbly.
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Serve
To serve the goat cheese balls, stick a toothpick or cracker into each one. The second option involves less clean-up (and tastes way better).
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Enjoy!
They're jam-packed with flavor, so don't hesitate to serve them alone, too.
Kirsten Nunez