Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is the ultimate holiday appetizer! Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet, rolled in crunchy toasted pecans and festive cranberries. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, it’s easy to make ahead and guaranteed to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- Base:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Flavor & Mix-ins:
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup toasted pecans chopped
- 2 –3 green onions or chives finely chopped
- Coating:
- ½ cup chopped toasted pecans
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- Optional: fresh herbs rosemary sprigs
- Optional Add-ins:
- Drizzle of honey
- Pinch of cinnamon for a cozy twist
Instructions
- Mix the Base
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and cheddar until smooth.
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add Flavor
- Fold in dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and green onions until evenly distributed.
- Shape the Cheese Ball
- Place mixture on plastic wrap and form into a ball.
- Chill in the refrigerator at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Coat and Serve
- Roll chilled cheese ball in a mix of chopped pecans and cranberries.
- Place on serving platter and allow to sit at room temperature 10–15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Toast pecans for deeper flavor.
- Chill the cheese ball between steps to maintain shape.
- Make mini cheese balls for bite-sized party servings.