Step 1: Make the Cheese Ball Mixture

1. Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and well combined. You can use a hand mixer or a wooden spoon for this step.
2. Season the Mixture: Add garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill or parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until the seasonings are evenly distributed. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour. This will firm up the cheese mixture, making it easier to shape into balls.

Step 2: Shape the Snowman

1. Form Two Cheese Balls: Divide the chilled cheese mixture into two portions – one slightly larger than the other. The larger portion will form the base (body) of the snowman, and the smaller portion will be the head.
2. Shape the Balls: Roll each portion into a ball with your hands. It helps to lightly coat your hands with a bit of oil to prevent the cheese from sticking. Place the larger ball on a serving plate or platter, and stack the smaller ball on top to form the snowman shape.
3. Coat with Shredded Cheese: Roll or press the cheese balls in the shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese, ensuring they’re fully coated. This will give the snowman a “snowy” appearance.

Step 3: Decorate the Snowman

1. Add the Face: Use black peppercorns or small pieces of black olive to create the eyes and mouth on the smaller cheese ball. Press a small triangle of carrot into the center for the nose.
2. Add Buttons: Press additional black peppercorns or olive pieces into the larger cheese ball to make buttons on the snowman’s body.
3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Arrange fresh rosemary or parsley sprigs around the base of the snowman to look like greenery, adding a festive touch.
4. Optional Accessories: Get creative! Add a mini hat using a bell pepper ring, sliced cucumber, or a small piece of red pepper. You can also wrap a thin slice of bell pepper or a strip of cucumber around the “neck” as a scarf.

Step 4: Serve

1. Arrange Crackers and Vegetables: Place an assortment of crackers, breadsticks, and vegetable sticks around the snowman for dipping.
2. Serve Chilled: Serve the cheese ball chilled to maintain its shape and texture. It’s best served cold, but you can let it sit out for a few minutes to soften slightly for easier spreading.