Your guests are in for a treat when they try this sweet cheese ball. Its flavor is inspired by cookie dough. Rolled in chopped pecans, this chocolate chip decorated spread tastes delightful on regular or chocolate graham crackers. This appetizer is also easy to prepare, taking about 10 minutes plus the chilling time.

To prepare a cheese ball or cheese dip, purchase the ingredients below:

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup confectioners' sugar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
3/4 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips
3/4 cup finely chopped pecans
Graham crackers, animal crackers or vanilla wafers

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter and vanilla until fluffy. Slowly add the sugars and beat just until combined. Stir in chocolate chips. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Next, place cream cheese mixture on a large piece of plastic wrap and shape into a ball. If serving as an appetizer, let the ball set for a couple of hours before setting out. You want the ball to be as firm as possible.

Prior to serving, roll the cheese ball in pecans. The chopped pecans on top add a gourmet touch. You may also choose to roll in mini chocolate chips instead of pecans. It can also be left plain and served as a dip instead of a ball.

Serve in a holiday inspired bowl and place in the center of a serving tray surrounded by graham crackers. If having kids at a party, they will love this creamy and sweet treat. It is packed with cream cheese and chocolate chips, a perfect dipping combination for little fingers! Spread on animal crackers, graham crackers or vanilla wafers as optional dipping choices for kids.

Everyone looks forward to this simple, traditional cheese ball at the holiday times. The ingredients are few and inexpensive, and might be made year-round, but some opt to reserve this special appetizer for the holidays only to maintain its appeal. This treat is sure to be a hit for adults and kids at your next party!