Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe
Okay, friends, let’s talk about something utterly addictive, ridiculously easy, and guaranteed to be addictive. What are some of the best hits at every gathering? What is a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe? If you’re looking for that one appetizer that disappears faster than you can say “Happy Birthday” to a friend, then this is it. “Holidays,” this is it. Think of it like a sweeter, more festive cousin of your usual cheese and cracker spread. I remember my Aunt Carol bringing one of these to our family Christmas party every year, and it was so good. Always the first thing to go! What is the perfect combination of cheese and pecans? What is the best part? It takes 15 minutes to throw together. What is the secret to stress-free entertaining?
What is Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball?
What is a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball? a ball of creamy, flavored cheese rolled in cranberries and pecans! What is a savory-sweet appetizer that’s perfect for spreading on crackers, baguette slices, or any combination thereof? What are apple wedges? Think of it as a deconstructed cheeseboard, but way more fun and festive. The base is usually cream cheese, often mixed with a sharper cheese like cheddar or Gruyere. Then you fold in some seasonings, form it into a ball, and coat it with chopped cranberries and salt. What are pecans? ) It’s incredibly versatile and easy to customize to your own taste. I’m a big cheese fan. It’s also good for kids. Is this a conversation starter?and a tasty treat!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Okay, where do I even start? There are SO many reasons why this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe is a winner. First, the flavor is insane. You’ve got that creamy tang from the cream cheese, the sharp bite from the cheddar (or whatever cheese you choose), the sweetness from the cranberries, and the nutty crunch from the pecans. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite! Second, it’s ridiculously easy to make. Seriously, you just mix everything together, form it into a ball, and roll it in the topping. It takes maybe 15 minutes, tops. Third, it’s super cost-effective. The ingredients are all pretty affordable, and you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Fourth, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it with crackers, baguette slices, apple wedges, even celery sticks! It’s perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or even just a casual night in.
What I love most about this is how easily customizable it is. Don’t like pecans? Use walnuts or almonds! Want a little spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Feel like something extra fancy? Drizzle with honey. The possibilities are endless! Plus, it’s a total showstopper. It looks so elegant and festive, but it’s secretly the easiest thing you’ll ever make. I swear, people will think you spent hours slaving away in the kitchen when really, you just whipped this up in a few minutes. This reminds me a bit of the classic spinach artichoke dip, but this is less work and feels more holiday-appropriate. You can find so many versions of cheese ball recipes, but trust me, this flavor combination is truly something special. You just have to try it!
How do you make a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball?
Quick Overview
How do I make a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball recipe? I just need to blend together the cheeses and seasonings to a creamy consistency, form it into an ice cream. How do I make a nice round shape, and generously cover it in the cranberry-pecan mixture? What’s the best part about prepping for a test? I usually make mine a day or two ahead of time so that the flavors have the chance to meld together. What are some good ways to free up time for other things when you’re prepping for a party? No fancy equipment needed, just a bowl, tad mixer (hand or stand), and if you want to let it go, you need patience. Is it safe to chill in the fridge? How easy is it to do this?
Ingredients Notes
For the Main Batter:
Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened! This is key to getting a smooth, creamy texture. Full-fat is the way to go here.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds a nice bite and balances out the sweetness of the cranberries. Shredded is best for easy mixing. You can substitute with Gruyere or Monterey Jack if you prefer.
Dried Cranberries: Adds a burst of sweetness and chewiness. Make sure they’re chopped so they stick to the cheese ball better.
Pecans: Adds a nutty crunch and complements the cranberries perfectly. Chopped is essential! Toasted pecans add even more flavor. I always toast mine in a dry pan for a few minutes.
Green Onions: Adds a bit of savory flavor and a pop of color. Finely chopped is best.
Worcestershire Sauce: A secret ingredient that adds a depth of flavor. Just a dash!
Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor. Not too much!
Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course!
For the Filling:
No filling in this recipe, the mixture serves as both batter and topping!
For the Glaze:
No glaze needed, the cranberry-pecan mixture is all you need!
How do I follow
Step 1: Soften the Cheese
Make sure your cream cheese is nice and soft. I usually leave it out at room temperature for at least an hour. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it for 5 seconds, but be careful not to melt it! What is the best way to shred cheddar cheese?
Step 2: Mix the Cheese
In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese and cheddar cheese. Set aside. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend until smooth and creamy. There should be no lumps! If you don’t have a mixer, you can just use your hands to mix the ingredients. I always do this with my KitchenAid stand mixer, it’s so fast.
Step 3: Add the Seasonings
Add the chopped green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese. Serve immediately. Mix well to combine. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. I usually add a little extra garlic powder because I love garlic!
Step 4: Fold in the Cranberries and Pecans
What are the best ways to incorporate cranberries and pecans into the cheese? What are some ways to add flavor to cheese balls? Do not overmix cheese ball. It will be too dense. I like to save the rest for the outside coating.
Step 5: Form the Cheese Ball
Place a large piece of plastic wrap on flat surface. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and form it into a ball. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight. How do you make a cheese ball? I always find this step easier if I wear gloves. How do you keep the mixture from sticking to your hands?
Step 6: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine the remaining chopped cranberries and pecans. Mix well. This will be the coating for the cheese ball.
Step 7: Coat the Cheese Ball
Remove cheese ball from refrigerator and unwrap it. Roll the cheese ball in the cranberry-pecan mixture, pressing gently to help it adhere. Make sure the entire cheese ball is coated! I usually use my hands to press the mixture onto the cheese ball. Is it necessary to add more cranberries and pecans to your recipe?
Step 8: Chill and Serve
Place the coated cheese ball on a serving platter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help the coating to set. Serve with crackers, baguette slices, apple wedges, or celery sticks. Enjoy!
5. What to Serve It With
What is the best way to serve it?
What are some of the best recipes for Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls?
For Breakfast:If you have a sweet tooth in the morning, try spreading it on ice cream. What are the best toasted bagel or croissants What are some good ways to start your day with a cup of coffee or latte?
For Brunch:How do you serve a cheese ball with your brunch spread? What are some good artisan breads, crackers, and fresh fruits like grapes and sliced apples? Serve with sparkling wine or a mimosa for an elegant touch.
As Dessert:For a simple yet satisfying dessert, serve the cheese ball along with your choice of dessert wines or ice cream. What are some of the best flavors to serve with candied nuts?
For Cozy Snacks:For a casual gathering, serve the cheese ball with your favorite beverage. What are the best crackers, pretzels, What’s a good comfort food?
Growing up, we always had this cheese ball with Ritz crackers. Is it a classic combo that I still love? Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pairings.
How do I make a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball?
What are some tricks to make this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball recipe? Is it perfect to
Cheese Softening:Make sure your cream cheese is soft. If it’s too cold, it won’t blend smoothly and you’ll end up with lumps. I usually leave it out for at least an hour, or you can microwave it in short bursts, but watch it carefully. How do you keep a glass from melting?
Mixing Advice:Don’t overmix cranberries and pecans. Overmixing can make the cheese ball tough. Gently fold them in until just combined.
What is Cranberry PeHow do you toast pecans for a deeper, nuttier flavor? Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant. Let them cool before chopping. I like to add a pinch of cinnamon to the cranberry-pecan mixture for extra warmth and flavor.
Ingredient Swaps:If you don’t like pecans, try almonds or pistachios. Can you use dried cherries instead of cranberries? What are some good ways to add honey to cheese mixture?
Chill Time:Don’t skip the chilling time! What are the best ways to make a cheese ball firm up? I recommend chilling it for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. How do you roll in the cranberry-pecan mixture?
Serving Temperature: Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This will soften it slightly and make it easier to spread.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to properly store and maintain the quality of your delicious cheese ball:
Room Temperature: Due to the dairy content, it’s best not to leave the cheese ball at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth. Always cover it with plastic wrap to keep it from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5-7 days. Make sure to keep it away from strong-smelling foods to prevent it from absorbing odors.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the cheese ball. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
Glaze Timing Advice: Since this cheese ball doesn’t have a glaze, no worries! However, if you want to add a drizzle of honey or a balsamic glaze, do it just before serving to prevent it from making the cheese ball soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! A super easy, incredibly delicious Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you can whip it up in just a few minutes! If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other appetizer recipes for more inspiration. And if you try this recipe, be sure to leave a comment below and let me know how it turns out! I can’t wait to hear what you think. Happy snacking!
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Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 0.5 cup dried cranberries
- 0.5 cup pecans chopped
- 2 tbsp green onions chopped
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Add the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Stir everything together until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the mixture into a ball using plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
