Snowman Cheese Ball

By dkanon

Ingredients

• 1 tub (8 oz) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese Spread
• 1 pkg (8 oz) KRAFT Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• 1/4 c finely chopped fresh chives
• 1/4 c slivered Almonds, toasted
• 1/4 t ground red pepper (cayenne)
• 1/4 c grated Parmesan heese
• Peppercorns
• 1 baby carrot

Preparation

Step 1

Mix first 5 ingredients until blended. Refrigerate 1 hour.
Divide cheese mixture into 3 different-size balls (1 small, 1 medium and 1 large). Coat with Parmesan. Arrange in line on serving plate to resemble a snowman lying down. (Largest ball should be at bottom of plate for the snowman's base, and the smallest ball should be at the top for the snowman's head.)
Decorate with remaining ingredients to resemble photo.

Variations:
Prepare cheese mixture as directed, then shape as follows:
Yule Log: Divide in half. Roll each half into log. Roll in chopped cashews and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley to resemble yule logs.

Decorated Christmas Tree: Drop 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.

Wreath: Drop 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.