Maple Apple Sausage Balls

Maple Apple Sausage Balls
2 pkgs maple flavored pork sausage
1-1/2 cups all-purpose baking mix
16 oz Cheddar cheese, shredded
2/3 cup tart baking apple, peeled and coarsely grated
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted (optional)
To toast pecans, stir constantly in a small dry skillet over medium-high heat for 3 minutes, or until lightly browned. Preheat oven to 375 F. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl.

Stir well. Form into 1” balls. Place on ungreased baking sheet.

Bake 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven. Cool 5 minutes before removing from pan.

Serve beside eggs and toast for a special occasion breakfast. Or as an appetizer — serve with cocktail forks or toothpicks.
Note: may be prepared ahead and frozen uncooked. To bake from frozen: thaw on baking sheet 15 minutes. Bake in preheated oven 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Variation: for firmer texture, add 3 cups baking mix and 2 cups shredded cheese to the ingredients listed above.
Makes about 6 dozen or using the variation – 9 dozen.