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
Scale
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
