This fun Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a tasty mix of cream cheese, crunchy pecans, and tart cranberries. It’s a perfect appetizer for any party!
People love how easy it is to make—just mix, roll, and chill. I always serve it with crackers, and it disappears fast. It’s like a crowd favorite every time! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the cheese ball. For a lighter option, you could use Neufchâtel cheese instead. It has a similar taste but less fat.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This adds a nice tangy flavor. If you prefer a milder cheese, you can use medium cheddar or even a creamier cheese like gouda.
Dried Cranberries: These give sweetness and a pop of color. If you have nut allergies or want something different, you can substitute with chopped dates or raisins.
Pecans: They provide a nice crunch. Walnuts or almonds can work too, depending on your flavor preference.
Chives: These add a fresh onion flavor. You could use green onions or parsley as a substitute. Fresh herbs really uplift the taste!
How Do I Get the Perfect Shape for My Cheese Ball?
Shaping the cheese ball can be tricky, but it’s all about technique! Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Start by using clean, dry hands. This makes it easier to form the mixture without sticking.
- Use plastic wrap to help shape the cheese ball. Just place the mixture in the center, gather the wrap around it, and twist to form a ball.
- Once shaped, rolling it in the crushed pecans helps smooth any rough edges and adds texture.
Be gentle when rolling; you want it to hold its shape while coating it in nuts!
How to Make a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped (plus extra for coating)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Whole fresh cranberries (optional, for serving)
- Crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cheese ball takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to chill and set. If you want to make it the night before, that works well too!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cheeses:
Start by gathering a large mixing bowl and combining the softened cream cheese with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. You can use a hand mixer or simply a spoon to blend them until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Add the Flavor:
Now, it’s time to bring in the flavor! Add the chopped dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of chopped pecans, chopped chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
3. Shape the Cheese Ball:
With your hands or a spatula, shape the cheese mixture into a round ball. Once you have your ball shape, place it on a large piece of plastic wrap.
4. Coat with Pecans:
On a plate, spread the remaining chopped pecans. Carefully roll the cheese ball in the chopped pecans, pressing gently to make sure the pecans adhere to the outside. This adds both flavor and a nice crunch!
5. Prepare for Serving:
Once coated, transfer the cheese ball to a serving plate. For a lovely touch, sprinkle the top with some additional chopped dried cranberries and chives as a garnish.
6. Chill It Out:
Cover the cheese ball with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you prefer. This helps the flavors blend beautifully and lets the cheese ball firm up.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, get it out of the fridge, and place it on a festive platter alongside an assortment of crackers. You can even add some whole fresh cranberries for extra color if you like. Enjoy this delightful cheese ball with your friends and family!
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese will work just fine, though it might yield a slightly different texture. Just ensure it’s softened well for easy mixing!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature for the best flavor before serving again!
Can I Make This Cheese Ball Ahead of Time?
Yes, this cheese ball is perfect for making ahead! Prepare it a day or two in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully over time!
What Can I Substitute for Pecans?
If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, feel free to use chopped walnuts, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds. Just adjust the amount based on your preference!
