cranberry cheese ball
This delightful cranberry cheese ball is a perfect appetizer for any gathering. It combines the creaminess of cheese with the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of nuts, making it a crowd-pleasing treat.
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 plastic wrap
- 1 serving platter
- 1 spatula
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup dried cranberries chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts finely chopped
- 2 pieces green onions finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended and smooth.
- Add the chopped dried cranberries, chopped nuts, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to form it into a ball shape.
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (the longer, the better for the flavors to meld).
- Once chilled, remove the cheese ball from the wrap and place it on a serving platter.
- If desired, roll the cheese ball in additional chopped nuts or herbs for a decorative touch.
- Serve with crackers, sliced apples, or vegetable sticks.
Notes
You can use different types of cheese if desired, such as goat cheese or cream cheese alternatives.
For added sweetness, consider mixing in a little honey or maple syrup.
This cheese ball can be made a day ahead for convenience. Just keep it wrapped in the refrigerator until serving.