cranberry pecan cheese ball
This deliciously creamy cranberry pecan cheese ball is perfect for holiday gatherings or entertaining. With a delightful mix of tangy cream cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans, it makes for a festive appetizer that pairs wonderfully with crackers or fresh vegetables.
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 electric mixer or whisk
- 1 plastic wrap or parchment paper
- 1 serving platter
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans chopped (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Using an electric mixer or whisk, blend until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until evenly mixed.
- Once the ingredients are well combined, use your hands to shape the mixture into a ball.
- Place the ball on a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper and wrap it tightly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- After chilling, remove the cheese ball from the wrap and roll it in additional chopped pecans to coat the outside.
- Transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter and serve with crackers or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
For added flavor, consider mixing in some herbs like chives or thyme.
You can make this cheese ball a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Feel free to customize the coating by adding herbs, spices, or different nuts based on your preference.