A cheese ball can be too soft if reduced fat or nonfat cream cheese is used. Stick to regular, full fat block-style cream cheese. Additionally, excessive amount of moisture from ingredients like sour cream, mayonnaise, or other wet components can make it soft. Lastly, care the cheese ball has sufficient time to firm back up in the refrigerator after forming to better hold its shape. If the cheese ball is still too soft, try incorporating more dry ingredients, such as finely grated cheese, nuts, or breadcrumbs, to help absorb excess moisture and improve the texture.