If you’re searching for a delightful crowd-pleaser that brings together creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans, then you absolutely need to try this Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe. It’s a festive favorite that bursts with flavor and texture, perfect for holiday gatherings, casual get-togethers, or whenever you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese creates the perfect creamy base, while the dried cranberries add a sweet-tart pop, and pecans provide a satisfying crunch that keeps everyone reaching for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a few simple but essential ingredients is the key to making this recipe shine. Each component plays an important role in layering flavors and textures — creamy, sweet, nutty, and savory — that make the Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe truly special.
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened: The creamy base that binds everything together while offering a rich mouthfeel.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a bold, tangy flavor that cuts through the creaminess perfectly.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries finely chopped: Brings a fruity, sweet-tart burst that balances the cheese’s richness.
- 1/2 cup pecans finely chopped, divided: Half mixed inside, half for coating, they add delightful crunch and a buttery depth.
- 2 tablespoons green onions finely sliced: Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens every bite.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Injects a subtle umami complexity that ties all the flavors together.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Lends a gentle garlic warmth without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a hint of spice for balance.
How to Make Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe
Step 1: Blend the Cheeses
Start by combining the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese in a large bowl. Mix them together thoroughly until you achieve a smooth and well-blended base. This creamy mixture is the foundation for the rich, tangy flavor you’ll love.
Step 2: Stir in the Flavorful Mix-Ins
Now, toss in the finely chopped dried cranberries, half of your chopped pecans, the sliced green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until it’s evenly incorporated, ensuring each bite will have a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements.
Step 3: Shape and Chill
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and gently shape it into a ball. Wrap it tightly and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours to firm up nicely, which also helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Roll in Pecans and Serve
Once chilled and firm, unwrap your cheese ball and roll it in the remaining chopped pecans. Press gently so the nuts stick evenly around the outside, creating a stunning and irresistible crunchy coating. Now you’re ready to serve!
How to Serve Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds a refreshing pop of color. A few extra whole cranberries or pecan halves scattered around the serving platter can elevate the presentation and hint at the flavors inside.
Side Dishes
Pair your cheese ball with an assortment of crackers—water crackers, buttery crostini, or even multigrain options work wonderfully. For a fun twist, crisp pretzels or thinly sliced apples offer contrasting textures and flavors that complement the sweet and savory cheese ball perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to jazz things up, consider serving the Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe as mini individual portions on endive leaves or cucumber rounds. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy bite-sized snacks while impressing everyone with your creativity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cheese ball keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It can safely last for up to two days, making it a great make-ahead appetizer for busy holiday seasons or last-minute celebrations.
Freezing
If you want to save your cheese ball for longer, it freezes well when tightly wrapped. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, but the flavors will still shine through beautifully.
Reheating
Cheese balls are best served chilled, so reheating is generally not recommended. Instead, let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to bring out the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold flavor, you can swap it for gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different twist. Just remember that the flavor profile will change a bit.
Are the dried cranberries sweet or tart?
Dried cranberries bring a lovely balance of sweet and tart notes to this recipe, which works beautifully to offset the richness of cream cheese and cheddar.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, use dairy-free cream cheese and cheddar substitutes, and ensure the Worcestershire sauce is vegan or use soy sauce instead. The flavor will be different but still satisfying.
What are some good alternatives to pecans?
If pecans aren’t your favorite or you have allergies, try chopped walnuts or almonds. They provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor that complements the recipe well.
How far in advance can I prepare the Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe?
You can prepare it up to two days ahead and keep it refrigerated. This makes it perfect for planning ahead during busy holidays or parties.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe is truly a shining star at any gathering. Its rich, creamy, and flavorful combination is easy to make and endlessly versatile, adding a festive touch to your appetizer lineup. I can’t recommend it enough—get ready to become the holiday host or hostess everyone talks about by sharing this delicious treat with your loved ones!
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Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This cranberry pecan cheese ball is a delightful and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings and parties. Creamy and tangy cream cheese blends with sharp cheddar, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans to create a flavorful, no-bake snack. Easy to prepare and make-ahead friendly, it’s served chilled and rolled in nuts for added texture and taste.
Ingredients
Cheese Ball Base
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped, divided
- 2 tablespoons green onions, finely sliced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Mix the cheese base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Use a spoon or electric mixer to blend until smooth and well combined, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add flavorings and mix-ins: Stir in the finely chopped dried cranberries, half of the chopped pecans, sliced green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated throughout the cheese mixture.
- Shape and chill: Scoop the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Using the plastic wrap, form the mixture into a round ball, pressing and smoothing the surface. Wrap tightly with the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up and meld the flavors.
- Coat with pecans: Before serving, unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it gently in the remaining chopped pecans. Press the nuts lightly so they stick well to the surface, adding a crunchy texture and decorative finish.
- Serve: Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and accompany with crackers, pretzels, or sliced apples for guests to enjoy.
Notes
- This cheese ball can be made up to two days in advance and kept tightly wrapped in the refrigerator to enhance flavor and convenience.
- For a deeper nutty flavor, lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat before chopping and using them in the recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
