Ingredients
Cheeseball Base
- 1 package cream cheese, softened (8 ounces)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce (such as caramel ice cream topping)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips, divided
Topping
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup caramel bits (such as Kraft caramel bits)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheeseball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and softened unsalted butter. Mix them together thoroughly until fully blended and smooth. Add the caramel sauce, powdered sugar, light brown sugar, and half (1/2 cup) of the mini chocolate chips. Beat the mixture well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is creamy.
- Shape and Chill: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your countertop. Spoon the cheeseball mixture onto the plastic wrap and cover it completely with the wrap. Shape the mixture into a smooth ball by gently pressing and molding with your hands. Once shaped, place the wrapped cheeseball in the refrigerator and chill for 1 hour to firm up.
- Coat the Cheeseball: In a medium bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, and caramel bits. Remove the cheeseball from the refrigerator and unwrap the plastic wrap. Roll the chilled cheeseball gently in the bowl with the coating mixture, pressing the toppings into the surface so they adhere well.
- Final Chill and Serve: Rewrap the coated cheeseball in a fresh piece of plastic wrap and place it back into the refrigerator until ready to serve. Allow it to chill until firm and well set. When serving, slice or scoop with crackers, cookies, or fruit. Enjoy your delicious Turtle Cheeseball!
Notes
- For best results, allow the cream cheese and butter to soften at room temperature before mixing.
- Use plastic wrap generously to make shaping and wrapping easier.
- The caramel sauce can be substituted with your favorite caramel topping if preferred.
- Store the cheeseball covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
- This cheeseball pairs well with graham crackers, pretzels, or apple slices for serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American