Description
This festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is the perfect appetizer for any holiday gathering or party. With a delicious blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries, it's a savory-sweet treat that will delight your guests and leave them asking for the recipe!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to blend until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add the Mix-ins: Fold in the chopped dried cranberries, pecans, and parsley. Stir gently to evenly distribute these ingredients throughout the cheese mixture.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Once everything is well combined, transfer the cheese mixture to a large piece of plastic wrap. Shape it into a ball by pulling the edges of the wrap together and gently rolling the mixture into a smooth, round ball.
- Coat the Cheese Ball: Roll the cheese ball in the chopped pecans, ensuring the outside is fully coated for extra crunch and flavor. If desired, drizzle a bit of honey over the top for added sweetness.
- Chill: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up.
- Serve: Remove the cheese ball from the fridge 15 minutes before serving to bring it to room temperature for easier spreading. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
- Make Ahead: This cheese ball can be prepared up to 2 days in advance, making it an ideal appetizer for parties and gatherings.
- Substitutions: If you don't like pecans, you can swap them with walnuts, almonds, or even cashews for a different nutty flavor.
- Dried Fruit Options: While cranberries add a sweet and tart kick, feel free to use dried apricots, cherries, or raisins for a variety of flavors.
- Add a Touch of Spice: For a spicy kick, finely chop a small jalapeño or bell pepper and mix it into the cheese base.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g