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Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball

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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.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

  1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
  2. 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

  1. 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.
  2. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

Step 3: Prepare the coating

  1. In a shallow bowl or plate, mix the chopped pecans and chopped cranberries for the coating.

Step 4: Coat the cheese ball

  1. 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

  1. 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.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/cranberry-pecan-cream-cheese-ball/