Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Name: Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped; 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your appetizer game with this delightful Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball. Creamy and rich, this cheese ball is rolled in crunchy pecans and vibrant dried cranberries, making it both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or a cozy night in, it pairs wonderfully with crackers, fruit, or fresh vegetables. Impress your guests with this easy-to-make, festive treat that combines sweet and savory flavors in every bite.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-27T07:11:09.585Z

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is not just delicious, but it also brings a festive touch to your table. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser everyone will enjoy!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare
Perfect for holiday gatherings
Combines sweet and savory flavors
Visually stunning and impressive
Great with a variety of dippers

      

The Perfect Party Appetizer

When it comes to entertaining, the right appetizer can set the mood for your entire gathering. The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is not only delightful to taste but also serves as a beautiful centerpiece for any table. Its rich and creamy texture paired with the crunch of pecans and the tanginess of cranberries creates a flavor explosion that keeps guests coming back for more.

This cheese ball is extremely versatile, matching well with a variety of dippers. Whether you choose buttery crackers, sliced baguettes, or crisp vegetables, each bite offers a delightful combination of taste and texture. The bright colors also make it a feast for the eyes, ensuring it stands out on your table of appetizers.

Easy to Make, Easy to Love

One of the best aspects of the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is how simple it is to prepare. Even if you’re new to cooking or have a busy schedule, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and steps. The most time-consuming part is simply letting the cheese ball chill in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together.

Once prepared, this dish not only serves as a delightful snack but can also double as a charming gift. Wrap it up nicely in plastic wrap and present it to friends or family during the holiday season. It’s a thoughtful gesture that showcases your cooking skills without necessitating hours in the kitchen.

A Flavorful Addition to Any Season

While perfect for holiday gatherings, the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is also suitable for any season. Its sweet and savory profile can complement both festive occasions and casual get-togethers. Add it to a picnic spread, or serve it at a summer barbecue to impress your guests with a unique flavor combination.

Moreover, this recipe allows for customization. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or seasonal availability. Add herbs, switch to different nuts, or incorporate various cheeses to create your own unique version of this crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Cheese Ball

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped dried cranberries, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Cheese Ball

Transfer the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Gather the wrap around the cheese mixture and shape it into a ball. Twist the ends to secure it, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Coat with Pecans

Once the cheese ball is chilled, remove it from the wrap. Roll it in the finely chopped pecans until fully coated.

Serve

Transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter. Serve with your choice of crackers, fruit, or fresh vegetables.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover cheese ball, don't fret! This delightful appetizer can be safely stored in the refrigerator. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, or place it in an airtight container. It can typically last for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy it over several days without sacrificing flavor.

When ready to serve again, there’s no need to reshape it. Simply remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and it will be ready to impress those who missed out on it initially!

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your serving experience, think about what you pair with the cheese ball. A selection of crackers can add a delightful crunch—try varieties like water crackers for a mild flavor or flavored crackers for added zest. Fresh fruits such as apple slices, pear wedges, or grapes provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese.

For drinks, consider serving a light white wine or sparkling beverage. The carbonation and acidity can balance the creamy nature of the cheese, creating a harmonious dining experience. Alternately, a warm beverage like spiced cider during fall can enhance the cozy, festive feel of your gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and coat it with pecans before serving.

→ What can I serve with the cheese ball?

It pairs well with crackers, sliced fruits, or fresh vegetables like celery and carrots.