Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball: A Festive and Flavorful Appetizer

If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s both festive and delicious, the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is an absolute must-try. This delightful cheese ball blends creamy tangy cheese with sweet-tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that will captivate your guests from the very first bite. Perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or any special occasion, this cheese ball brings a splash of color and a burst of flavor to your appetizer spread.

What makes this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball truly special is the balance between the smooth, creamy base and the vibrant crunch of pecans paired with juicy cranberries, which lend a beautiful chewiness and a pop of color. The recipe is straightforward to make but offers impressive results that look as good as they taste. Whether you’re a seasoned host or a casual cook, this recipe will soon become your go-to for entertaining.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup (60 g) dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup (60 g) pecans, chopped, plus extra whole pecans for garnish
• 1/4 cup (25 g) green onions, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the cheese mixture.
3. Gently fold all the ingredients together with a spatula or wooden spoon until evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Be careful not to overmix to maintain some texture from the nuts and cranberries.
4. Place a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and shape it into a ball using your hands. Wrap it tightly with the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.
5. After chilling, unwrap the cheese ball and place it on a serving plate.
6. Sprinkle extra chopped pecans around the plate and press some onto the cheese ball surface for added texture and decoration. Optionally, garnish with whole pecans and fresh parsley for a pretty presentation.
7. Serve the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, crisp bread slices, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.
8. Enjoy as a flavorful appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests with its festive flair and delicious taste!

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Chill time: 2 hours
• Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 servings
• Difficulty: Easy

Tips & Variations

• For easiest shaping, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before starting.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, finely chop the pecans more or pulse them in a food processor.
• Substitute dried cranberries with dried cherries or raisins for a different fruity twist.
• Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out in the fridge.
• Serve with a variety of crackers and fresh veggies to cater to different tastes.
• To make ahead, prepare the cheese ball and refrigerate for up to 3 days before serving.
• For a festive variation, add a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme for an herbal note.

Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 1 g

Conclusion

The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a wonderfully easy yet impressive appetizer that brings a festive touch to any table. Its lovely combination of creamy, crunchy, and fruity elements makes it a crowd-pleaser that your family and guests will love.

Give this recipe a try for your next holiday gathering or party, and watch it become a favorite tradition. Don’t forget to share your experiences and variations in the comments below—I’d love to hear how you make it your own!