Holiday Cheese Truffles

They may look as cute as holiday chocolates, but these mini cheese balls are made for those of us who love a little cayenne and sharp Cheddar on our party plate.

Ingredients:

• 2 pkg. (8 oz. each) brick cream cheese, softened
• 1 pkg. (8 oz.) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
•  dash ground red pepper (cayenne)
• 1/4 cup chopped roasted red peppers
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1-2/3 cups chopped pecans
•  SOCIABLES Crackers

Directions:

• Beat  first 4 ingredients with mixer until blended. Divide in half. Add peppers to half, and onions to remaining half; mix each until blended.
• Refrigerate  several hours or until chilled.
• Shape  each mixture into 24 (1-inch balls); roll in nuts. Serve with crackers.

Recipe Tips:

Size-Wise:

Enjoy a single serving of these indulgent holiday treats.

Special Extra:

Try these other coatings for these tasty truffles -- sesame seed, chopped fresh parsley, paprika and your favorite KRAFT Shredded Cheese.

Variations:

Prepare as directed, using one of the following options:  

Festive Wreath:

Alternately arrange different flavored truffles in a large circle on platter to resemble a holiday wreath. Create a decorative bow out of green onion strips; use to garnish wreath.  

Cheese Logs: Roll each half into 6-inch log, then roll in desired coatings.

Source: ritzparade.com