The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer for any holiday gathering or party. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, all wrapped up in a delightful crunchy coating of pecans and dried cranberries. Paired with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies, this cheese ball will add a touch of elegance and deliciousness to your festive table.
Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
For the Cheese Ball:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Coating:
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
For Serving:
- Crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies (e.g., celery sticks, baby carrots)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Cheese Ball
1️⃣ Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated sharp cheddar, chopped parsley, green onions, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth and fully combined.
2️⃣ Shape the Cheese Ball:
Scoop the cheese mixture out of the bowl and use your hands to form it into a ball. For easier handling, wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap or parchment paper to shape it more neatly. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
2. Prepare the Coating
1️⃣ Chop the Pecans and Cranberries:
While the cheese ball is chilling, roughly chop the pecans and dried cranberries into small pieces. Combine them in a shallow dish or plate.
2️⃣ Coat the Cheese Ball:
Once the cheese ball is firm, remove it from the refrigerator. Roll it in the pecan and cranberry mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks evenly around the cheese ball. For an extra festive touch, drizzle a small amount of honey over the top for shine and sweetness.
3. Serve the Cheese Ball
1️⃣ Plate It Up:
Transfer the coated cheese ball to a serving platter. Surround it with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh veggies for dipping.
2️⃣ Enjoy:
Slice into the cheese ball and savor the creamy, sweet, and savory flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
- Perfect Holiday Appetizer: Its festive look and balanced flavors make it a centerpiece-worthy addition to any party table.
- Sweet and Savory Bliss: The tangy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, sweet honey, and tart cranberries are a match made in culinary heaven.
- Crunchy Texture: The chopped pecans add a delightful crunch that complements the creamy cheese.
- Easy to Make Ahead: Prepare it a day in advance to save time on the day of your event.
Tips for the Best Cheese Ball
- Room-Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Customize the Coating: Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds and experiment with dried apricots, cherries, or raisins for the coating.
- Chill Thoroughly: A well-chilled cheese ball is easier to shape and coat, so don’t skip this step.
- Serve at Room Temperature: Let the cheese ball sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving to make it easier to spread.
FAQs
Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes! The cheese ball can be prepared and coated up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
What if I don’t have pecans?
No problem! You can substitute pecans with chopped walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios for a unique twist.
Can I freeze the cheese ball?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change once thawed. It’s best to enjoy it fresh within 2-3 days.
Conclusion
The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a stunning and delicious addition to any holiday spread. With its creamy cheese base, vibrant cranberry and pecan coating, and irresistible flavor, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with your guests. Easy to prepare and bursting with festive flavors, this cheese ball will quickly become a favorite tradition at your holiday gatherings. Try it today and savor the magic of sweet and savory in every bite!