Cheddar and Olive Balls

By rickfanciullo

Jenee's fav

to add a little spice you can add 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne

Ingredients

• 1/4 lb. extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup buttter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup all purpose flour
• 24 - 30 medium pitted green olives

Details

Servings 30
Preparation time 60mins
Cooking time 80mins

Preparation

Step 1

Allow cheese to sit out until it is room temperature. In a large bowl, mix together the cheese, butter and paprika using a pastry blender.

Gradually mix in flour and salt, first using the pastry blender, then using your hands. Mix until the dough pulls together. Sprinkle with a little olive juice. It should form a solid ball with a smooth appearance, but have a crumbly texture when pulled apart. If dough appears too dry, add more shredded cheese. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Pinch off a small piece of dough, and cover an olive with it. Roll gently between your p\alms to smooth and seal the olive inside. Place onto an ungreased cookie sheet and repeat with remaining dough. Place the tray of covered olives into the refrigerator for 10 minutes to firm up. Bake for 10 - 12 minutes in the preheated oven, or until browned.

Freeze: you may freeze with layers of waxed paper. To bake do not thaw and place on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 12 minutes.