Recipe Tips

Variation Prepare using reduced-fat cream cheese spread and shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese.

VariationsPrepare cheese mixture as directed, then shape as follows: Yule Log: Omit Parmesan. Divide cheese mixture in half. Roll each half into log. Roll in chopped cashews and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley to resemble yule logs. Decorated Christmas Tree: Omit Parmesan. Drop cheese mixture by tablespoonfuls into triangular shape on small platter; smooth top with spatula to resemble Christmas tree shape. Add a few pretzel sticks for the tree trunk and chopped red, green and yellow peppers for the ornaments. Truffles: Shape cheese mixture into 1/2-inch balls. Roll in Parmesan cheese, or in ground pecans, dry bread crumbs or chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Wreath: Omit Parmesan. Drop cheese mixture by spoonfuls around drinking glass on serving plate; smooth top with spatula. Remove glass. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley and red peppers to resemble a Christmas wreath.

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