In a large bowl, blend softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth and combined. Season with kosher salt and black pepper.

Using a cookie scoop, create 18 small balls (about 1 inch in size). Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

In a nonstick skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp, about 8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and chop finely.

In a shallow dish, mix the chopped bacon, roasted pecans, and chives to create a coating.

Roll each chilled cheese ball in the bacon-pecan mixture to coat fully. Insert a pretzel stick into each for easy dipping.

Let the Cheese Ball Bites sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving, optionally garnishing with extra chives or paprika.