Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Introduction
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a beautiful and flavorful appetizer perfect for holidays, gatherings, or any special occasion. It combines creamy cheeses, tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and fresh herbs to create a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. It’s easy to make ahead and serves wonderfully with crackers or veggies.
Ingredients
#### **For the Cheese Mixture**
* 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
* 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
* ½ cup (120 g) goat cheese or crumbled feta (optional for tanginess)
* 1 tsp garlic powder
* 1 tsp onion powder
* ½ tsp salt
* ¼ tsp black pepper
* 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional for a sweeter flavor)
* ¼ cup finely chopped green onions or chives
* ½ cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
* ½ cup finely chopped toasted pecans
#### **For the Coating**
* 1 cup chopped toasted pecans
* ½ cup chopped dried cranberries
* 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
#### **To Serve**
* Crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks
### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Base:**
* In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and goat cheese.
* Mix using a hand mixer or spatula until smooth and creamy.
2. **Flavor the Mixture:**
* Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and honey (if using).
* Stir until fully incorporated.
3. **Add the Goodies:**
* Fold in chopped cranberries, pecans, and green onions.
* Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients throughout.
4. **Shape the Cheese Ball:**
* Place the mixture on a large piece of plastic wrap.
* Gather the wrap around it and shape into a ball (or log if preferred).
* Chill in the refrigerator for at least **1–2 hours** to firm up.
5. **Prepare the Coating:**
* On a large plate, combine the chopped pecans, cranberries, and parsley.
* Remove the cheese ball from the fridge, unwrap it, and roll it gently in the coating until fully covered.
6. **Final Chill:**
* Wrap it again lightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for another **30 minutes** before serving to set the coating.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:**
* Place the cheese ball on a serving plate surrounded by your favorite crackers or breadsticks.
* Let it soften slightly at room temperature before serving for easy spreading.
### **Tips and Variations**
* **For spice lovers:** Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture.
* **For extra sweetness:** Mix in some finely diced dried apricots or pineapple.
* **For smoky flavor:** Use smoked cheddar or add a few drops of liquid smoke.
* **Make-ahead:** You can prepare and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance. Roll in coating just before serving for best texture.
### **Nutritional Information (per serving, about 2 tbsp)**
* Calories: ~120
* Fat: 10 g
* Carbohydrates: 3 g
* Protein: 4 g
* Fiber: 1 g
* Sugar: 2 g
### **Conclusion**
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is the perfect make-ahead party dip — creamy, crunchy, and bursting with festive flavor. Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual get-together, it’s guaranteed to impress your guests and disappear quickly from the table.
