The Hungry Canary

Adapted from Ideals Family Cookbook · Mary Jane Ricks

Ham Cheese Ball

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Ingredients

  • 3 packages cream cheese (8 oz each), softened
  • 1 cup finely diced ham
  • 2 Tbsp prepared horseradish
  • 2 Tbsp mustard (type unspecified)
  • 2 cups finely chopped nuts (type unspecified)
  • For serving: crackers or a wheat-free alternative

Directions

  1. In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ham, horseradish and mustard until evenly mixed.
  2. Shape into balls approximately 3–4 inches across.
  3. Spread finely chopped nuts on a plate and roll each cheese ball in the nuts to coat.
  4. Chill until firm enough to serve. Offer with crackers or a wheat-free serving option such as crisp vegetables.

Cookbook source and adaptation

Based on “Ham Cheese Ball,” contributed by Mary Jane Ricks to the Ideals Family Cookbook. The original calls for three 8-oz packages of cream cheese, one cup diced ham bits, two tablespoons each horseradish and mustard, and two cups finely chopped nuts. It says to mix the first four ingredients, form 3–4-inch balls, roll in nuts, and serve with crackers.

The filling remains faithful to the dictated ingredients. A wheat-free serving option and refrigeration guidance have been added; the original does not specify the nut variety, mustard variety, or chilling time.

Serving and storage

Keep refrigerated at 40°F or below until serving and refrigerate leftovers promptly. For wheat-free serving, use cucumber slices, celery or another suitable dipper. Check the prepared horseradish, mustard and ham labels for ingredients that matter to your household.