Prep Time: 15 mins Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins Makes 18 balls

Cal/Serv: 179 Calories 179 Fat 15g Saturated fat 7g Carbohydrates 6g Fiber 0g Sugar 1g

You will need:

8 slices bacon

1 1/2 (8-oz.) blocks cream cheese, softened

1 cup. grated cheddar

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. paprika

1/3 cup. roasted salted pecans, finely chopped

1/3 cup. fresh chives, chopped

18 pretzels sticks/ Mini breadsticks or Twiglets will suffice. Or even just  lolly pop sticks.

Rock salt

Freshly ground black pepper

METHOD

Step 1

Add cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, and paprika into a large bowl, season with salt and pepper. Using a ice cream scoop or spoon, form mixture into 18 small balls (about 1”) and transfer to a greaseproof covered baking tray. Refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.

Step 2

Meanwhile, in a large frying pan, over medium heat, cook bacon, turning occasionally, until crispy, for about 8 minutes. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate, then transfer to a cutting board and finely chop.

Step 3

In a shallow bowl, mix bacon, pecans, and chives.

Step 4

Roll balls in bacon pecan mixture, insert a pretzel stick into each, and let come to room temperature 15 minutes before serving. (If not serving right away, loosely cover with cling film and return to fridge.)