Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a show-stopping appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. This creamy, tangy cheese ball is studded with dried cranberries and crunchy pecans, creating a balance of textures and flavors. It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and always a hit with guests!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive and Beautiful: Perfect for holiday tables or parties.
- Easy to Make: Comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
- Flavorful: A creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet appetizer with the perfect crunch.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by adults and kids alike.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Dried cranberries (chopped)
- Pecans (chopped and toasted)
- Green onions (thinly sliced)
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in half of the chopped cranberries, pecans, and green onions.
- Shape the Cheese Ball:
- Transfer the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Form it into a ball shape, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours or until firm.
- Coat the Cheese Ball:
- On a large plate, mix the remaining cranberries, pecans, and green onions.
- Roll the chilled cheese ball in the mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
- Serve:
- Place the cheese ball on a serving plate. Serve with crackers, pretzels, or sliced vegetables.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 8–10 as an appetizer
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1–2 hours
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 2 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Sweet Option: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the cheese mixture for a sweeter flavor.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme into the mixture.
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seeds or toasted pumpkin seeds instead of pecans.
- Blue Cheese Twist: Replace cheddar with crumbled blue cheese for a bold flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: No reheating needed. Serve cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to 2–3 days in advance. Add the outer coating just before serving for the freshest look.
What can I serve with a cheese ball?
Serve it with crackers, pretzels, crostini, or fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, or cucumber slices.
Can I freeze the cheese ball?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
How do I toast pecans?
Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes, stirring once.
Can I use other dried fruits?
Absolutely! Swap cranberries with dried cherries, apricots, or raisins.
What cheese can I use instead of cheddar?
Colby, Monterey Jack, or gouda are great alternatives.
How do I keep the cheese ball from sticking while shaping?
Use plastic wrap to shape the ball or lightly grease your hands with oil.
Can I make mini cheese balls?
Yes, divide the mixture into smaller portions and coat individually for bite-sized appetizers.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
Leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave it in 10-second intervals until softened.
Can I add bacon?
Yes, crumbled cooked bacon makes an excellent addition to the cheese mixture or the outer coating.
Conclusion
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a delightful appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its creamy base, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans, it’s sure to be the star of any gathering. Make it for your next party or holiday event and watch it disappear in no time!
PrintCranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a festive and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Made with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans, it pairs perfectly with crackers or fresh veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 cheese ball (10 servings) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (60 g) dried cranberries, chopped
- ¼ cup (30 g) chopped pecans (plus ½ cup for coating)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Crackers, fresh veggies, or bread slices for serving
Instructions
- Mix the cheese ball:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped cranberries, ¼ cup pecans, honey, garlic powder, and thyme (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Shape the ball:
- Scoop the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to shape it into a ball. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Prepare the coating:
- Spread the remaining ½ cup of chopped pecans on a plate. Add additional chopped cranberries if desired for extra color.
- Coat the cheese ball:
- Remove the cheese ball from the fridge and unwrap it. Roll the ball in the pecan mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres evenly.
- Serve:
- Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and surround it with crackers, fresh veggies, or bread slices.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
- The cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.