This delightful Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a fun treat for gatherings! It’s creamy and full of flavors, featuring tangy cranberries and crunchy pecans that everyone loves.
Making it is a breeze! Just mix, roll, and chill before serving. I like to serve it with crackers for a tasty snack—perfect for sharing with friends or family! 🧀❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of your cheese ball. Make sure it’s softened for easier mixing. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with Neufchâtel cheese.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This brings a nice tang to the cheese ball. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use medium cheddar or even a creamy cheese like Havarti.
Pecans: These add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. If you have nut allergies or want a different taste, walnuts or sunflower seeds work great.
Dried Cranberries: For that sweet and tart kick, dried cranberries are perfect. You can swap them for dried cherries or raisins if you prefer.
Green Onions: These provide freshness. If you don’t have them, finely chopped shallots or even chives can work nicely.
How Do I Shape the Cheese Ball Perfectly?
Shaping your cheese ball might seem tricky, but it’s simple! Here’s how:
- After mixing all the ingredients, use clean hands or a spatula to gather the mixture.
- Press it together firmly to form a cohesive ball—this helps it hold shape.
- Don’t worry if it’s not perfect! It’ll still taste amazing, even if it’s a bit rustic.
- Once shaped, roll it in the pecan and cranberry mixture to cover it entirely.
This step is key to a beautiful presentation and ensures you get that delightful crunch in every bite!
How to Make a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Cheese Base:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Additions:
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Coatings:
- 1 cup chopped pecans, divided
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped, divided
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional for mixing)
- Extra dried cranberries for garnish
- Fresh whole pecans for garnish
Serving:
- Crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. It’s quick to make, and the chilling time allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cheese Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Add in the finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix everything together well until it’s smooth and fully incorporated. This part is the heart of your cheese ball!
2. Add Additional Ingredients:
Next, stir in half of the chopped pecans, half of the finely chopped dried cranberries, and the fresh parsley if you’re using it. Make sure to mix thoroughly so that everything is evenly distributed in the mixture.
3. Shape the Cheese Mixture:
Using your hands or a spatula, gather the mixture and shape it into a ball. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—just try your best to form a nice rounded shape!
4. Prepare the Coating:
On a plate or shallow dish, combine the remaining chopped pecans and dried cranberries. This will be your tasty outer layer!
5. Roll in Coating:
Gently roll the cheese ball in the pecan and cranberry mixture, pressing lightly so that it adheres well to the surface of the cheese ball. Make sure it’s evenly coated all around for a beautiful presentation!
6. Transfer and Garnish:
Carefully transfer your completed cheese ball to a serving platter. For added decorative flair, garnish the top with extra dried cranberries and whole pecans.
7. Chill to Firm Up:
Cover the cheese ball and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld together and the cheese ball to firm up nicely.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve your delicious cheese ball with an assortment of crackers around it. Enjoy this creamy, tangy, and crunchy Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball as a festive appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese as a healthier option. It will still give you a creamy texture, but keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly less rich.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it properly to maintain its freshness!
Can I Make This Cheese Ball Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese ball up to 24 hours in advance. Just roll it in the pecan and cranberry coating, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
What Can I Use Instead of Pecans?
If you have nut allergies or simply don’t have pecans on hand, feel free to substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a crunch without the nuts.