Swiss & Cream Cheese Ball

By katecar

Swiss cheese and cream cheese form the base for these cheese balls flavored with thyme and smoked ham. A splash of vodka gives a peppery flavor, but omit it if you wish. Perfect for parties.
Prep Time: 3 hours, 20 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours, 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese
• 2 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 Tsb gin/vodka
• 10 oz Swiss cheese
• 2/3 cup chopped smoked ham
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh chives

Preparation

Step 1

In a large bowl or food processor, combine cream cheese, half the thyme, pepper, salt, and gin or vodka. Beat or process until blended and smooth.

Add Swiss cheese and ham and beat vigorously until evenly mixed. If you are using a food processor, take care not to overmix. The ham and Swiss cheese should retain some texture. This is a rather soft mixture and will be easier to form if it is refrigerated for 2 to 3 hours first.

Combine remaining thyme and the chives and spread on a large plate or sheet of wax paper. Dampen hands and divide the cheese mixture in half. Pat and press each half into a ball about 3 inches in diameter. Roll each ball in thyme and chive mixture, pressing so coating adheres. Wrap separately in plastic wrap and chill until served.