Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe for Jolly Gatherings

Whipping up a delightful cranberry pecan cheese ball brings instant magic to any gathering.

Creamy textures and vibrant flavors dance together in this simple yet impressive appetizer.

Festive hints of tart cranberries complement rich cream cheese perfectly.

Crunchy pecans add a delightful nutty dimension that surprises and delights.

Sharp cheeses blend seamlessly with sweet-tangy fruit elements.

Guests will absolutely adore this elegant party starter that looks professionally crafted.

You can assemble this crowd-pleasing recipe in mere minutes, making it an absolute winner for spontaneous celebrations.

FAQs

• Is this cheese ball good for parties?

Absolutely! This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is perfect for holiday gatherings, game nights, or any social event. It’s easy to make ahead and always impresses guests with its delicious flavor and beautiful presentation.

• Can I make this cheese ball in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this cheese ball up to 2-3 days before serving. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve as they meld together over time.

• What if I don't like pecans?

You can easily substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. If you have nut allergies, try using toasted sunflower seeds or breadcrumbs for a similar crunchy coating.

• How long can the cheese ball stay out during a party?

Keep the cheese ball at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to maintain food safety. After that, return it to the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

No fancy techniques required, making it a stress-free appetizer for any gathering.

• Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans that creates an irresistible taste sensation. This recipe offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will have guests coming back for more.
• Ideal for holiday gatherings, game days, or casual get-togethers, this cheese ball works magic as an impressive appetizer. It's a total showstopper that can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to relax and enjoy your own party.
• Prepare this delectable cheese ball in advance and store in the refrigerator, giving you one less thing to worry about when entertaining. The flavors actually improve as they meld together, making it a smart and delicious prep-ahead option.

Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

• Cream Cheese: A smooth and creamy foundation that provides rich texture to the cheese ball.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that adds depth and tanginess to the overall flavor profile.

• Dried Cranberries, Pecans, Parsley: These ingredients contribute bursts of sweet, nutty, and herbal notes to the cheese mixture.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the savory character of the cheese ball.

• Chopped Pecans, Honey: Extra pecans create a crunchy exterior, while honey adds a subtle touch of sweetness.

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Step 1: Create the Creamy Base

In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese with shredded cheddar cheese.

Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Use a hand mixer or spatula to create a silky smooth mixture that’s packed with flavor.

Step 2: Fold in Delightful Ingredients

• Chopped dried cranberries
• Chopped pecans
• Fresh parsley

Stir carefully to distribute ingredients evenly throughout the cheese mixture.

Step 3: Shape the Cheese Ball

Transfer the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap.

Use the wrap to help shape the mixture into a perfect round ball.

Roll and mold until you have a smooth, compact sphere that looks irresistible.

Step 4: Add a Crunchy Coating

Roll the cheese ball in additional chopped pecans, ensuring every inch is covered with a delicious nutty exterior.

For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a light stream of honey over the top.

Step 5: Chill and Develop Flavors

Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

This resting time allows the flavors to mingle and the texture to firm up beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Take the cheese ball out of the refrigerator 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Arrange on a platter with an assortment of accompaniments.

Tips for Perfect Cheese Ball

• Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing to ensure smooth, lump-free blending.
• Dice cranberries and pecans into small, uniform pieces to distribute flavors evenly and create a consistent texture throughout the cheese ball.
• Toast pecans lightly in a dry skillet before chopping to bring out their rich, nutty essence and add extra complexity to the dish.
• Pat dried cranberries with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, preventing the cheese ball from becoming too wet or soggy.
• Prepare the cheese ball up to 3 days in advance, storing it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator to develop deeper, more integrated flavors.

Storing Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

• Store the cheese ball in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. Keep it in the coldest part of the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure the container is sealed to prevent absorbing other food odors.
• Wrap the cheese ball securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften and enhance flavors. Gently reshape if needed. Avoid microwaving, as it can compromise the texture and separate the ingredients.
• Check for any signs of spoilage like unusual smell or mold before consuming. Discard if the cheese ball shows any unexpected changes in texture or appearance.

Serving Ideas for Cheese Ball

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio perfectly complement the tangy cranberries and rich cheese, cutting through the creamy texture with bright, zesty notes.
• Crackers that Crunch: Rosemary-infused water crackers or multigrain seeded crackers provide a delightful textural contrast and enhance the nutty pecan coating.
• Fruit and Cheese Board Companions: Fresh green apple slices, dried apricots, and fig jam create a beautiful balance with the savory cheese ball, adding layers of sweet and tart flavors.
• Toast with Sparkling Beverage: Prosecco or champagne bring effervescent elegance, cleansing the palate between bites and elevating the entire appetizer experience.

Variations of Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace cream cheese and cheddar with vegan cream cheese alternatives made from cashews or almond-based products. Use nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor and chopped almonds instead of pecans.
• Herb Garden Cheese Ball: Swap dried cranberries with fresh chopped herbs like chives, dill, and thyme. Add roasted garlic for extra depth and use goat cheese for a tangy variation.
• Low-Carb Keto Version: Use full-fat cream cheese and swap dried cranberries with small amounts of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Roll in crushed pork rinds instead of pecans for a crispy exterior.
• Mediterranean Inspired: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, and fresh oregano. Replace pecans with toasted pine nuts and add a sprinkle of za'atar seasoning for authentic Mediterranean flavors.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

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4.6 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Creamy cheese meets festive flair in this irresistible Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball that brings holiday cheer to any gathering. Guests will savor each tangy, nutty bite, making this appetizer a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you won’t want to miss.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Cheese Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (113 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Fruit and Nut Components:

• 1/2 cup (75 grams) dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup (60 grams) pecans, chopped (plus extra for rolling)

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth using a hand mixer or spatula.
2. Gently incorporate chopped dried cranberries, pecans, and parsley into the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution.
3. Transfer the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap and shape into a compact, uniform ball by gathering and rolling the wrap.
4. Completely encase the cheese ball’s exterior with finely chopped pecans, creating a crunchy coating.
5. Optional: Drizzle a light layer of honey over the pecan-covered surface for enhanced sweetness and depth of flavor.
6. Tightly wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2-4 hours, allowing flavors to meld and texture to solidify.
7. Before serving, remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften slightly.
8. Present alongside crisp crackers, thinly sliced baguette, or a variety of fresh vegetable crudités for an elegant appetizer experience.

Notes

• Soften cream cheese completely at room temperature for smooth, lump-free mixing, ensuring easier blending and better texture.
• Chop pecans and cranberries finely to distribute evenly throughout the cheese mixture, creating balanced flavor in every bite.
• Consider toasting pecans briefly before coating to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra depth to the cheese ball’s overall taste profile.
• Swap ingredients for dietary needs: use low-fat cream cheese for lighter version, dairy-free cheese alternatives for vegan option, or replace pecans with sunflower seeds for nut-free adaptation.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 205
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg