Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Highlighted under: Celebratory Feast Recipes
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delightful Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball. Combining creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans, this festive appetizer is perfect for dipping with crackers or fruit. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it’s a showstopper that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
This cheese ball combines the tartness of cranberries with the nuttiness of pecans, creating a rich flavor profile that pairs perfectly with an assortment of snacks.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is an excellent choice for various gatherings, from festive holiday parties to casual get-togethers. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it not only appetizing but also visually appealing, enhancing your table's presentation. Guests will love its creamy texture combined with the crunch of pecans and the tartness of cranberries, making it a memorable addition to any event.
This cheese ball is incredibly versatile, allowing it to pair well with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you prefer a classic cracker, fresh baguette slices, or an assortment of seasonal fruits, you can create a stunning cheese board that suits your guests' tastes. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, giving you more freedom to enjoy your event.
A Flavorful Balance
One of the key aspects of the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is the perfect blend of flavors. The sweetness of the cranberries complements the savory notes of the cheese and spices, while the pecans provide a delightful crunch. This combination makes each bite exciting and satisfying, inviting guests to come back for more. The addition of fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness that brightens up this delicious appetizer.
In addition to being delicious, this cheese ball is a smart choice for those mindful of dietary preferences. By using cream cheese and cheddar cheese, it strikes a balance that appeals to both cheese lovers and those who favor lighter options. This adaptability allows you to present an appetizer that is both indulgent and guilt-free.
Quick and Easy Preparation
Preparing the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a breeze, making it an ideal option for those who may not have extensive culinary experience. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a stunning dish that looks like it took hours. This efficiency is especially helpful during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season when time is limited.
Once you've blended the ingredients, shaping them into a ball and chilling it is all it takes to make this dish a reality. The refrigeration process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a cheese ball that's bursting with taste. You can easily impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cheese Ball
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sweet dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- Salt to taste
To Serve
- Crackers
- Sliced fruits
Mix all ingredients well for a delicious appetizer.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Form the Cheese Ball
Shape the mixture into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Serve
Remove the cheese ball from the wrap, roll it in additional chopped pecans if desired, and serve with crackers and sliced fruits.
Enjoy your festive appetizer!
Storage Tips
Leftover cheese ball can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes it a great option for holiday gatherings, as you can prepare it in advance and enjoy it over multiple days. Just be sure to re-cover any exposed edges to maintain freshness and flavor.
If you want to make it ahead of time, consider forming the cheese ball a day or two before your event. Simply refrigerate it and take it out when you’re ready to serve. This not only saves time but also intensifies the flavors, making for an even tastier appetizer.
Customizing Your Cheese Ball
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to make this cheese ball your own. For instance, you can swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds, or incorporate different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist. You could also mix in additional flavors like bacon bits or jalapeños to create a smoky or spicy variation.
Additionally, try using flavored cream cheese or adding a drizzle of honey over the top before serving for an extra layer of flavor. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to cater to your specific palate or the preferences of your guests.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball, presentation is key. Arrange it on a wooden board surrounded by an assortment of crackers, fruit slices, and even some cured meats for a charcuterie-style spread. This visually appealing setup will entice your guests and encourage them to dig in.
Consider serving with a variety of dipping options too. Offering different types of crackers, veggies, or even pretzel bites can add an interesting twist and create an interactive experience for your guests. This way, everyone can customize their snacking experience and have fun trying different combinations.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
→ What can I substitute for pecans?
You can use walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delightful Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball. Combining creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans, this festive appetizer is perfect for dipping with crackers or fruit. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it’s a showstopper that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Celebratory Feast Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Cheese Ball
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sweet dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- Salt to taste
To Serve
- Crackers
- Sliced fruits
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Remove the cheese ball from the wrap, roll it in additional chopped pecans if desired, and serve with crackers and sliced fruits.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 5g