The Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball is an elegant and flavorful appetizer perfect for holidays, parties, or any gathering. This no-fuss recipe combines the creamy richness of cream cheese, the tangy sweetness of dried cranberries, and the crunchy nuttiness of pecans. Rolled in a beautiful coating of pecans and cranberries, it’s as stunning as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Entertaining: A visually appealing centerpiece for any snack table.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry and fridge staples.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes and requires no cooking.
- Customizable: Adjust flavors and add-ins to suit your taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepares in advance, making party planning a breeze.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cream cheese, softened
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Dried cranberries, chopped
- Pecans, chopped
- Green onions, finely chopped
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh rosemary or parsley sprigs
Directions
- Mix the Base: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the shredded cheddar, half of the chopped cranberries, half of the chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Scoop the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Gather the wrap around the mixture and shape it into a ball. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the remaining chopped cranberries and pecans.
- Roll and Coat: Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap. Roll it gently in the cranberry and pecan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Serve: Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and garnish with fresh rosemary or parsley if desired. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 10-12 as an appetizer
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh dill, thyme, or parsley for a herby flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a drizzle of honey to the coating for a touch of sweetness.
- Different Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or pistachios.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cream cheese and cheddar for a vegan version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the cheese ball (without the coating) in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before coating and serving.
FAQs
Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance. Add the coating just before serving for the freshest presentation.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese?
Leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it in 10-second intervals until soft.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheddar melts and blends better into the mixture.
How do I keep the cheese ball from sticking to my hands?
Use plastic wrap or lightly grease your hands with oil when shaping the ball.
Can I use other dried fruits?
Absolutely! Dried apricots, cherries, or raisins are great substitutes for cranberries.
What crackers pair best with this cheese ball?
Wheat crackers, buttery crackers, or seeded crackers complement the flavors beautifully.
How do I make a smaller cheese ball?
Divide the mixture into two smaller balls or even mini bite-sized balls for individual servings.
Can I skip the nuts?
Yes, substitute with crushed pretzels or seeds for a nut-free coating.
Can I add meat to the cheese ball?
Diced bacon or prosciutto can be mixed in or added to the coating for a savory twist.
How do I serve this cheese ball elegantly?
Place it on a decorative platter with crackers and veggies arranged around it, and garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Conclusion
The Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball is a stunning and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy base, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans, it’s a flavorful treat that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Customize it with your favorite flavors, make it ahead for convenience, and watch it disappear from the table in no time!
PrintCranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball
This Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball is a festive appetizer that’s creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet with a satisfying crunch from pecans. Perfect for holidays, parties, or any gathering, it’s easy to make and pairs wonderfully with crackers, fresh veggies, or toasted baguette slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup (60 g) dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup (25 g) chopped pecans (plus more for coating)
- 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For coating:
- 1/2 cup (50 g) chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup (30 g) dried cranberries, finely chopped
For serving:
- Crackers, vegetable sticks, or baguette slices
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the cheese ball base
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, honey (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
Step 2: Shape the cheese ball
- Place a large piece of plastic wrap on your countertop. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and shape it into a ball using your hands.
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Step 3: Prepare the coating
- In a shallow bowl or plate, mix the chopped pecans and chopped cranberries for the coating.
Step 4: Coat the cheese ball
- Once the cheese ball is firm, unwrap it and roll it in the pecan-cranberry mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly.
Step 5: Serve
- Place the cheese ball on a serving plate and surround it with crackers, vegetable sticks, or baguette slices. Enjoy!
Notes
- Make-ahead: The cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance. Keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and coat it just before serving.
- Variations: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.