Mini Cheese Balls

This is a great make-ahead recipe that gets better the longer you let it refrigerate. It also makes lots so it is good for a large party. I like to vary the types of dried fruit - substituting craisins for raisins, dried pineapple for apple, etc.

• Ready In: 45 mins
• Yields: 7-8 dozen

Ingredients

• 16  ounces cream cheese, softened
• 8  ounces  shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1⁄2 cup  finely chopped  dried apricot
• 1⁄2 cup  finely chopped  dried apple
• 1⁄2 cup golden raisin
• 1  teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 -1 1⁄4 cup  chopped walnuts

Directions

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add remaining ingredients except walnuts; blend well. Refrigerate mixture 30 minutes or until easy to handle. Shape into 1 inch balls. Roll in chopped walnuts.
2. Refrigerate until firm.
3. Serve with crackers.
4. Store in refrigerator up to 2 weeks.