Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe
A festive and flavorful Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball combining creamy cream cheese and sharp cheddar with sweet dried cranberries and toasted pecans, perfect for holiday gatherings or party appetizers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cheese ball serving 8-10 people 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup white sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped and divided
- 1 cup Fisher’s Nuts pecans, chopped and toasted (optional)
- 1/4 cup chives or green onions, chopped
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Toast Pecans: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the chopped pecans evenly on a baking tray and bake for approximately 5 minutes or until they become aromatic. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, half of the toasted pecans, half of the dried cranberries, chopped chives or green onions, and garlic powder. Beat all together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Shape Cheese Ball: Lay a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper flat on the counter. Spoon the cheese mixture into the center and cover it completely with the wrap while shaping it into a compact ball. Once formed, place the wrapped cheese ball in the fridge to chill until ready to serve.
- Prepare Coating: Just before serving, mix the remaining half of the pecans, dried cranberries, and 2 tablespoons of chives on a flat surface or cutting board. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and carefully roll it in this cranberry-pecan mixture until evenly coated.
- Serve: Present the cheese ball with crackers, pita chips, pretzels, or fresh vegetables such as carrots or celery for a delicious and crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Notes
- Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds crunch but can be skipped if preferred.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture and creaminess.
- Prepare the cheese ball several hours ahead or the night before to allow flavors to meld.
- Store any leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans and increase dried cranberries or add seeds as garnish.
Keywords: cheese ball, appetizer, cranberry, pecan, holiday party, cream cheese, cheddar cheese
Find it online: https://recipeswithmia.com/cranberry-pecan-cheese-ball-recipe/
