Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball: The Ultimate Holiday Appetizer

The holidays are a time for family, joy, and—let’s face it—delicious food! And when it comes to impressing guests with minimal effort, this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is your answer. It’s creamy, tangy, crunchy, and just the right touch of festive. Whether you’re hosting a party or heading to a potluck, this elegant appetizer is bound to be the star of your spread.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Festive and Stunning

The ruby-red cranberries and golden-brown pecans make this cheese ball almost too pretty to eat. (Almost!) It looks like a decorative ornament on your holiday table.

2. Easy to Make Ahead

This is a no-fuss appetizer you can whip up in advance. The flavors only get better after chilling, which means less stress on the day of your gathering.

3. Incredible Flavor Combination

Imagine the tart chewiness of cranberries, the buttery crunch of pecans, the sharpness of cheddar, and the creamy smoothness of cream cheese—all wrapped in one bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
• ½ cup pecans, chopped (divided)
• 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Tools for Preparation

• Mixing Bowl: For blending everything together.
• Rubber Spatula: Helps in mixing and shaping the cheese ball.
• Plastic Wrap: Keeps it fresh while chilling in the fridge.
• Serving Plate: A festive platter makes all the difference!

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

• Switch the Nuts: Walnuts or almonds can work beautifully in place of pecans.
• Herbs for Freshness: Try parsley or chives instead of green onions for a different flavor.
• Boost the Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Sweeten It Up: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup makes it extra indulgent.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, cranberries, half of the pecans, green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

2. Shape the Ball

Using your hands or a spatula, form the mixture into a ball. Don’t worry about perfection—it’s going to look gorgeous after the pecan coating.

3. Add the Crunchy Coating

Roll the cheese ball in the remaining chopped pecans, pressing lightly to ensure they stick to the surface.

4. Chill and Set

Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld and the texture firm up.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Unwrap the cheese ball and place it on a serving plate. Surround it with your favorite crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables.

this Recipe

What to Serve with a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

• Crackers: Ritz, wheat thins, or water crackers are all great choices.
• Vegetables: Sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, and celery sticks pair beautifully.
• Fresh Fruit: Grapes, apple slices, or pears add a sweet contrast.

Tips for the Perfect Cheese Ball

1. Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
2. Customize the Texture: Want it chunkier? Leave the cranberries or pecans in slightly larger pieces.
3. Make It Mini: Form the mixture into smaller, bite-sized cheese balls for a fun twist!

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Cheese balls freeze well! Wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this cheese ball without nuts?
Absolutely! Roll it in chopped dried cranberries or crushed pretzels instead for a nut-free version.

2. How far in advance can I make it?
You can prepare this cheese ball up to 3 days in advance. Just keep it wrapped and refrigerated until serving.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Try swapping sharp cheddar for Gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

Wrap-Up: A Festive Treat You’ll Love

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is the epitome of holiday perfection. It’s creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make that you’ll find yourself whipping it up for every occasion. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also brings a touch of festive elegance to your table.

Looking for more holiday recipe inspiration? Don’t miss out on these seasonal favorites:

• Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
• Caramel Apple Bars
• No-Bake Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes

Don’t forget to leave a review and share your cheese ball creations on Pinterest!

Nutrition (per serving, approx. 10 servings)

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 5g
• Carbs: 6g
• Fiber: 1g

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