Derby Party Olive Cheese Balls

Baked cheddar dough-wrapped olive bites threaded on skewers, kissed with smoked paprika for festive finger food.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cheese Dough

01 - 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour

02 - 2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

03 - 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened

04 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

05 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

06 - 1/4 tsp salt

→ Filling

07 - 24 large green olives, pitted (such as Spanish Manzanilla)

→ Assembly

08 - 24 appetizer-sized skewers or toothpicks

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

02 - In a medium bowl, combine flour, cheddar cheese, butter, cayenne (if using), paprika, and salt. Mix with your hands until a soft dough forms.

03 - Pat dough into a rough rectangle and cut into 24 even pieces (about 1 tablespoon each).

04 - Flatten each piece of dough in your palm, place one olive in the center, and wrap the dough around to seal it completely. Roll into balls.

05 - Arrange balls on the prepared baking sheet. Optionally, chill for 10 minutes for neater results.

06 - Bake for 16–18 minutes until golden and firm. Let cool for 5 minutes.

07 - Thread each warm cheese ball onto a skewer or toothpick. Serve immediately, warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Tips:

01 -

These cheese balls are outrageously addictive—watch them vanish faster than the juleps.
They’re the kind of appetizer you can prep ahead and bake when the guests arrive, which is party-magic in any kitchen.

02 -

Trying to wrap cold dough around the olives was a disaster—it cracked everywhere, so always use room temperature dough.
Letting the baked balls rest for a few minutes firmed them up, making them easier to skewer without falling apart.

03 -