Hello food lovers! Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game with a delicious and simple recipe? This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is just what you need to impress your guests with minimal effort. It’s a blend of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or just because. Let’s dive in!

2. Introduction

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a classic party favorite with a festive twist. This delightful appetizer combines the richness of cream cheese with the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans. It’s not only easy to make but also looks beautiful on any table spread. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this cheese ball recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes. Keep reading to learn how to create this savory-sweet delight that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

3. Ingredients

To prepare this comforting Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball, you’ll need:

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup dried cranberries (chopped)
½ cup pecans (chopped)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika (optional, for a hint of spice)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

This recipe is flexible! You can substitute different cheeses, like mozzarella or gouda, for a unique twist. If you’re looking to make it nut-free, simply skip the pecans and roll the cheese ball in chopped herbs instead.

4. How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Follow these steps to create your own delicious Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball:

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Stir in the dried cranberries and half of the chopped pecans.
Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands or a spatula.
Roll the cheese ball in the remaining chopped pecans, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up.
Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve with crackers, sliced veggies, or bread.

Note: For an extra burst of flavor, consider mixing in chopped green onions or a sprinkle of smoked paprika!

5. Helpful Tips

Creating the perfect Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is easy with these tips:

Soften your cream cheese ahead of time to ensure smooth mixing.
Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best texture and taste.
If you prefer a sweeter taste, try adding a drizzle of honey to the mixture or on top before serving.

These little details will elevate your cheese ball from good to absolutely delicious!

6. Cooking Tips

For added flavor, try adding one or two of the following:

Chopped bacon bits for a savory boost
Green onions for an extra layer of taste and freshness
Dash of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness

Using a food processor can help you quickly chop ingredients like pecans or cranberries, saving time and ensuring a more even texture in every bite.

7. Serving Suggestions

The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball pairs perfectly with a variety of foods and drinks! Serve it with:

Assorted crackers like multigrain, whole wheat, or gluten-free options
Fresh vegetable slices such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or celery sticks
Baguette slices or crusty bread for a hearty, filling option

Pair this appetizer with a sparkling wine or cranberry-infused cocktail to highlight its fruity notes!

8. Nutritional Information

Enjoy this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball without guilt—it’s packed with flavor in every serving.

9. Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 180
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 180mg
Potassium: 50mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 4g
Vitamin A: 10% DV
Vitamin C: 1% DV
Calcium: 8% DV
Iron: 2% DV

This cheese ball is high in calcium, offering some bone-building benefits while satisfying your savory cravings.

10. Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: To store, wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freeze: While not recommended, you can freeze the cheese ball by wrapping it tightly and storing it for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheat: Enjoy this dish cold, directly from the fridge, for the best texture and taste.

Leftover cheese ball can be used as a spread on bagels, as a filling for sandwiches, or melted into scrambled eggs for an unexpected treat!

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Preparing it the day before allows the flavors to meld together even more, making it taste even better.

Q: Can I skip the nuts?
A: Yes, you can roll the cheese ball in chopped herbs, shredded cheese, or even crushed pretzels for a nut-free option.

Q: How do I prevent my cheese ball from becoming too soft?
A: Make sure your cheese ball is well chilled before serving. If it’s too warm, it can become mushy. Keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to present it.

2. Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball recipe, try these other delicious appetizers from our collection:

These recipes are crowd-pleasers and easy to prepare, perfect for any event!

13. Conclusion

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball recipe is a must-try for your next gathering. It’s easy to make, full of rich flavors, and guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. We hope you give this recipe a try and share it with family and friends. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments—let us know how you made this recipe your own!

Enjoy every bite