Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe
If you’re looking for the perfect holiday appetizer that’s both festive and delicious, the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a must-try! This sweet and savory cheese ball combines creamy cheese, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans to create a party centerpiece that your guests will love. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and pairs beautifully with crackers, bread, or fresh fruit.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: 1 package (8 oz / 225 g), softened at room temperature
- Dried cranberries: 1 cup, roughly chopped
- Pecans: ½ cup, toasted and chopped
- Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup, finely grated
- Granulated sugar: ¼ cup (adjust to taste)
- Ground cinnamon: ¼ teaspoon
- Optional for coating: extra chopped pecans or powdered sugar for a festive finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese. Stir in the dried cranberries, toasted pecans, Parmesan, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until the ingredients are evenly incorporated and you have a creamy, chunky blend.
2. Form the cheese ball
Using clean hands or a spatula, shape the mixture into a ball. If the mixture feels too soft, place it in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes before shaping.
3. Chill for best flavor
Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, leave it overnight.
4. Add a festive coating (optional)
Before serving, roll the chilled cheese ball in extra chopped pecans for a crunchy exterior or dust lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy, holiday-inspired look.
5. Serve and enjoy
Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and pair it with buttery crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruit like apple slices or grapes.
Serving Ideas
- Charcuterie board centerpiece: Place the cheese ball in the center of a festive board surrounded by crackers, breadsticks, cured meats, and fresh fruit.
- Mini cheese balls: Instead of one large ball, shape the mixture into smaller, bite-sized balls and roll each in chopped nuts for easy grab-and-go appetizers.
- Sweet twist: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup right before serving for an extra layer of sweetness.
Expert Tips
- Toast the pecans: Toasting enhances their nutty flavor and adds extra crunch.
- Soften the cranberries: If your dried cranberries are very chewy, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes, then pat dry before mixing.
- Make ahead: The cheese ball can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Freezing option: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
When to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
- Christmas parties
- New Year’s Eve celebrations
- Thanksgiving appetizers
- Family gatherings and potlucks
- Anytime you need a festive, no-fuss appetizer
Nutrition Information (per 100 g approx.)
- Calories: ~310 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g